It’s the night before a job interview and you discover a huge pimple on your nose. You reach for the toothpaste, following the words of an old home remedy. Toothpaste is a key part of your daily oral health routine, but could it also come in handy in a beauty emergency?

Here is more information on using toothpaste for acne:

Choose the Right Toothpaste

1. Avoid Gel: Gel-based toothpastes may not be as effective in drying out and shrinking your pimple.
2. Go Natural: Look for natural or organic toothpastes—they contain helpful ingredients like witch hazel, tea tree oil, aloe, or eucalyptus.
3. Watch the Whitening: Toothpastes with polishing or bleaching chemicals can irritate your skin.

Test Your Skin First

One of the reasons toothpaste is known to be a temporary acne cure is because it includes ingredients that are drying agents–baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. But if you have sensitive skin, these ingredients can make the situation worse. Test your skin by using a small amount on the back of your hand before using toothpaste for acne.

How to Apply Toothpaste for Acne

1. Wash your hands to avoid spreading more germs to your pores, then wash your face and pat it dry.
2. Apply a thin layer directly on the pimple. No need to rub it in.

*If you feel burning or itching, your toothpaste may not be right for your skin. Rinse it off immediately.

3. Let it sit overnight, or at least 1-2 hours.
4. Rinse your face with cool water and pat dry.

Pro tip: Use a gentle moisturizer on the area to prevent dryness.

Using toothpaste for acne should be a short-term remedy. Eating the right foods and staying hydrated can also help prevent breakouts by keeping your overall health in shape.

More oral health tips to keep a healthy and happy smile:

• The Love Connection Between Heart and Oral Health

• Why Do Cavities Hurt?

*Updated September 2021