While a pimple on the lip line is perfectly normal, it can be extremely frustrating. Common treatments that you use on your face may also be deemed unsafe. After all, it’s easy to ingest something when it is so close to your mouth. That’s where natural remedies come to the rescue. These options, using ingredients found in your kitchen or garden, provide gentle therapy for healing your skin.
Before you look into these remedies, take some time to rule out other causes. Confirm that the pimple is not actually a cold sore, a viral infection that can also develop on the lip. Here are 6 natural remedies to get rid of alip pimple.
# Lemon JuiceLemon juice is an effective antibacterial agent that is perfectly safe to consume. Fortunately, studies have also determined that lemon juice is an effective cleanser for acne vulgaris. Besides being an astringent, it is also antimicrobial, preventing the spread of skin infections, including acne. Simply dip a clean cotton ball in lemon juice and dab it on your skin. The astringent properties will also cause the skin to constrict when you apply lemon juice. This pushes the oil and any clogged dirt out as the skin is naturally squeezed. These can then be wiped away. Finish up with a good wash with clean water. Dab dry with a soft towel.
# Steam
Steaming your face and mouth can unclog pores and remove dirt. It serves as a gentle cleanse that also boosts circulation. Avoid using a vessel that is designated for food. This will prevent more impurities from entering your pores. A dedicated facial steamer may be a worthwhile investment. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser or clean water and dab dry before steaming. Allow the steam to warm your face and open up the pores so any impurities or oils clogging them can come out. Wipe away with a clean soft cloth, using a dabbing motion so the dirt or oils don’t spread. Splash your face with cold water later to close your pores.
# IceFor red and swollen pimples, apply an ice pack. Just wrap a few ice cubes in a soft cloth or tissue and hold against the affected area. This will slow down blood flow and circulation in the region. In turn, inflammation and pain might lessen, easing some of the swelling and redness. The cold compress seems to help people with acne for the same reasons that they work for easing muscular pain, though no specific studies have been done on the remedy.
# Basil LeavesAn Ayurvedic remedy of crushed basil leaves (Ocimum basilicum) was found to be just as effective as a combination of the topical application of sulfur and the oral ingestion of a 500 mg dose of tetracycline, an acne medication. All you need to do is apply the basil juice to the affected area using a clean cotton ball.
# Neem Oil Or LeavesLeaves of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica) are also used in many acne-healing folk remedies. Researchers have found that neem (both the oil and crushed leaves) can shrink the size of a pimple when applied to the affected area. This is likely due to the natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of neem. Neem oil is quite strong so dilute it in coconut or olive oil before dabbing on the pimple.
While neem oil is generally safe for adults in moderate quantities, children may experience side effects such as vomiting. It is best avoided for individuals under 18.
# Green TeaGreen tea is rich in antioxidants and polyphenols. These two substances inhibit production of sebum, the natural oil responsible for pimples when produced in excess or built up with dirt. In addition, green tea is antibacterial and has the ability to balance hormones. Therefore, it can act from the inside and out. Consume about 2–3 cups of green tea every day and combine it with a topical application. Brew some green tea leaves to soften them, drain away the water, and place the leaves on your acne. Some remedies suggest adding honey, which also has antibacterial properties, to the tea before applying as a mask. Rinse off after a while and pat dry with a towel.