Oh, acne. The bane of most every teenager’s existence, the stuff that kept us all stressed out through so many school picture days. Now that we’re all adults, though, we can thankfully never have to worry about acne again…I wish! Acne can last long in to adulthood, and it can creep up on your face when you’ve got many other adult things to tend to – this, my friends, is a whole different ball game.

But then, you’ve also learned by now that conventional acne products may zap zits – but they’re not very good for your body. Chemicals used in that stuff are dangerous, plain and simple.

So, what’s a girl (or guy) to do?

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) – the magical liquid good for treating everything from sore throats to cleaning your kitchen counters – is a magical acne wash – and it’s as natural as the sun and the sky. All it is vinegar (non-toxic? check!) made from apples and/or cider (non-toxic, check again!) You can pick up an organic version of ACV for about 3 -4 dollars at your local health food store. Here are some options, depending on the level of rescue your skin needs:

For an all over facial treatment when you’re facing pimple city, mix 50% organic apple cider vinegar with 50% cool filtered water. Splash on your face, let it sit for 3 -5 minutes, and then rinse well.

Once your pimples have calmed themselves into a more submissive state, a mix of 30% ACV and 70% water should do for more regular treatments.

For a full-on one-fiery-pimple emergency, dab 100% pure ACV directly on to the pimple with a q-tip, and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Rinse well. For a skin-clarifying facial scrub, mix 1 cup unrefined sugar with ½ cup water and 3 tablespoons of ACV.

Whatever way you mix it, ACV saves the day! It’s inexpensive, chemical-free, and effective. Now, what conventional brand of acne wash can say all that?