Folk remedies can sometimes work better than many prescription medications. Skin conditions such as persistent acne is one common ailment for which expensive creams and ointments are prescribed. But did you know that many acne sufferers have reported great results from using milk of magnesia? Yes, I’m talking about the milky white liquid commonly used as an antacid and laxative, which is about 8% magnesium hydroxide in water. It can to do the trick on acne when other treatments have failed.

Do an allergy test -- Before you try any new product on your skin, it’s always a good idea to do an allergy skin test. Dab a small amount of milk of magnesia on the inside of your arm, in the wrist area. Let it dry and leave on overnight. If there is any irritation, do not proceed.

Wash your face with a gentle facial cleanser and warm water. Pat dry.

With a cotton ball or cosmetic pad, apply a thin layer of milk of magnesia to your face. Let dry, and then gently rinse off with warm water. Apply milk of magnesia to control acne at least once a day if your skin type is oily to dry, twice a day if you have extra oily skin.

Granted, milk of magnesia is not the most glamorous acne treatment around, but many chronic acne sufferers have reported clearer skin with just a couple of days of use. In some cases, acne sufferers have found that milk of magnesia was the only treatment that brought relief. Given the cost of acne remedies – the low cost alone is worth giving milk of magnesia a try!

more tips:

• Makeup can be applied over a thin layer of dried MoM.
• Milk of magnesia has been beneficial in the treatment of dandruff and seborrhea.
• Discontinue use if irritation occurs.