Common kitchen items are commonly used as a home remedy to treat and prevent acne. Acne is mainly caused by bacteria and fungus and needs treatment that is directed at eliminating these offending agents, according to dermatologists Sonya K. Brown, M.D., and Alan R. Shalita, M.D. Everybody will respond differently to certain methods of treatment, so it cannot hurt to give a few of these home remedies a try.

Lemon Juice and Lime Juice

Lemon and lime juices contain alpha-hydroxy acid, which promotes sloughing off dead skin. This promotes new skin cell growth, clears pores of bacteria and reduces inflammation. Simply cut up a lemon or lime. Another option is to use concentrated lemon or lime juice. After washing your face, simply dab the juice on your acne using a cotton ball. Do not rinse off. Use this juice remedy before bedtime and in the morning. If the juice stings too much, dilute it using water.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is another home acne treatment that is rich in alpha-hydroxy acid. It reduces swelling, kills bacteria and balances the skin's natural pH level. It also absorbs excessive oil from skin, which is one cause of acne. Simply dab apple cider vinegar on your acne using a cotton ball. Do not rinse. Apply before bedtime and in the morning. Dilute the vinegar with water if it is too strong.

Oatmeal

Natural oatmeal is also helpful for treating acne and other skin irritations. Oatmeal contains terpinen-4-ol, which is responsible for antimicrobial activity. It removes oil and impurities off the skin, promoting clean and acne-free skin. Simply apply warm cooked oatmeal to your face. Leave it on for 20 minutes and then wash off. Do this at least twice a week.

Tea

Tea, such as green tea and black tea, contains tannic acid, which helps to reduce the swelling of acne. Prepare a cup of tea, and then gently dab the tea bag on the acne-infected areas of your face. Do not rinse the tea off your face. Use this tea treatment at least twice a week.

Vitamin A Supplements

Taking a vitamin A supplement, or a multivitamin that contains vitamin A, helps reduce oil production and is important in maintaining healthy skin. Take a vitamin A dosage of 10,000 IU per day. For contolling severe cases of acne, you may need to increase the intake to 25,000 IU per day. Only do this after consulting with your doctor, as too much vitamin A may cause side effects that can be harmful.