Everyone loves a good, at-home skin care treatment that actually works. For one thing, at-home remedies are usually all-natural, so you don't risk further skin damage from harsh chemicals and preservatives, and they typically have ingredients that are found in any kitchen. One of these common at-home skin care ingredients is plain yogurt.

Yogurt contains active cultures, lactic acid, and a wide range of nutrients that can be very beneficial to the skin. The rich and creamy quality also nourishes the skin, so you don't have to worry about drying out your skin while you treat it. No matter what your skin type or ailment might be, yogurt masks can help you get the clear and bright complexion you're looking for. Here are some of the main benefits of yogurt.

Yogurt has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, which menas it can help prevent your pores from getting clogged with acne-causing bacteria and keep your skin clean. It also contains zinc, which can aid in treating and healing breakouts. To treat, rub plain, skim milk yogurt on any pimples or acne-prone areas. Leave for 30 minutes and gently wash off with lukewarm water.

Yogurt contains lactic acid. When lactic acid is applied to the skin, it aids in dissolving dead skin that can clog pores and create dull skin. The end result is smaller pores and a brighter complexion. Lactic acid in yogurt also helps prevent signs of premature aging like wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots, and can soothe dry skin. 

Looking for a way to soothe those dark bags under your eyes, or even out a patchy complexion? The zinc found in yogurt helps to lighten your skin tone, and the lactic acid can actually prevent the skin from darkening by inhibiting melanin (the pigment that causes your skin to darken). This is a great remedy for pregnant women and/or first time moms who are dealing with melasma (also known as pregnancy mask, this is skin darkening caused by hormone fluctuation) and exhaustion.