Acne is one of the most stubborn and uncomfortable skin conditions out there. We’ve tried everything from toothpaste to tea tree oil (and other skincare trends we’re glad we never tried!) to banish pimples. Now there’s another rumored solution for acne that’s gaining popularity: crushed aspirin. This acne-shrinking home remedy has been alleged in the skincare community for years but it’s recently gained more attention thanks to a few viral TikTok videos.
If you’re curious about this DIY solution and want an expert’s take on the treatment you’ve come to the right place. We reached out to Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, a board-certified dermatologist currently practicing at Khrom Dermatology, Brooklyn NYC, and a founder of her own office, Dermatology Circle PLLC opening soon. Kazlouskaya warns that while it may seem that crushed aspirin is stopping acne breakouts, this feeling won’t last. Find out more below!
Crushed aspirin acne treatment
According to TikTok, the most popular way to use aspirin as a home remedy for hormonal acne breakouts is to crush a few aspirin tablets into powder form. Then, mix the aspirin powder with a few drops of water to create a paste. This paste can be used as a spot treatment for specific pimples or applied all over the face as an aspirin mask.
It's important to opt for uncoated aspirin tablets as opposed to liquid gels. These liquid gels contain additives that can irritate the skin if applied topically. And, if you're using this treatment as a mask, make sure you're applying it to your clean skin. Then wash it off with warm water after about 10-15 minutes. But, if you're using it as a spot treatment, you can (supposedly) leave it on overnight.
Does it work?
Even though this viral trend is touted all over TikTok as a "magical" treatment for acne, there is no scientific evidence that aspirin helps at all with acne. "I am not sure how exactly this trend started, maybe due to the similarity in the medication names (aspirin- acetylsalicylic and salicylic acid). Aspirin is not similar to salicylic acid at all. Aspirin powder may potentially dry out pimples, giving an impression that they improve," Kazlouskaya explains. Like most home remedies and new skincare treatments, skin irritation is the primary concern here. People with very sensitive skin may develop irritation with this treatment.
Kazlouskaya recommends avoiding this 'aspirin mask' skincare trend. "There are much better ways to treat acne. Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, [and] Adapalene/Differin are wonderful over-the-counter remedies for mild pimples. It is best to consult a board-certified dermatologist for mild/severe acne to prevent scarring and permanent skin changes," Kazlouskaya warns. "At times, acne is more complex than just simple breakouts and may be a sign of an underlying endocrine or metabolic condition." Noted!
"A healthy diet with less processed foods was shown to be anti-inflammatory and help in some cases of acne. Studies also suggest that in some cases, milk products may aggravate acne, but it is very individual," Kazlouskaya says.
The truth is, there’s no evidence that topically applied aspirin will help acne. In fact, it’s more likely to irritate your skin. Instead, aim to focus on more traditional topical acne treatments, such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoids. No matter which acne treatment you choose, it’s important to stick with it and give it time to work. Resist the urge to pop your pimples. This will only make your acne worse and increase the potential for scarring. When it comes to acne, it's more important to keep your face clean and avoid sugary and fried foods that lead to inflammation.
