Aromatherapy and Essential Oils for Acne

I’m guessing if you are reading this article, it’s unfortunately because you are experiencing issues with acne.

Unfortunately, acne is a problem for many people throughout all stages of life. As a result, there are thousands of products out there used to treat acne, everything from creams to topical gels, face masks to face washes, pore strips and blackhead removers. It’s overwhelming for anyone to visit a drug store to be faced with a massive wall filled with acne treatment products. These treatments also vary widely in price, but some can cost you hundreds of dollars. And there is no guarantee of results.

Have you ever thought of using essential oils for acne treatment?

Essential oils are a natural treatment for acne and acne scars, allowing you to avoid the harsh chemicals that are included in some commercial face washes, masks and creams. These oils contain powerful plant extracts that may be used to fight a number of health conditions. In this case, we’ll focus on oils that fight acne. However, make sure to check out the rest of my site to find out about essential oils that combat other frustrating and painful conditions.

Before using any of the oils – Please note that non-diluted essential oils may irritate the skin. Be sure to check the labeling on your product before using. You can dilute essential oils further in coconut oil, jojoba oil, aloe vera gel or even water. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to a patch test first (I recommend on the inner arm) just to ensure the oil won’t irritate your skin.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is widely considered the most successful essential oil for fighting acne. It is taken from the leaves of the tea tree, or Melaleuca alternifolia, native to Australia. It was traditionally used by the indigenous Bundajalung people of Australia to treat a variety of conditions, including sore throats, coughs, colds and a variety of skin ailments, including wounds. It was likely successful in treating these conditions because of its antibacterial, anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties. It can not only kill acne-causing bacteria, but can restrict its growth as well. It may also help reduce the skin’s oil production, which may help to reduce future breakouts.

Geranium Oil

Derived from the geranium plant, this is a great oil for oily, acne-prone skin. It is also anti-bacterial and anti-microbial, so its kills and fights growth of acne-causing bacteria.

As an added bonus, it also has anti-aging properties. It is an astringent and is amazing for toning, tightening and regenerating skin. It has additional properties that allow the oil to assist in healing scars as well.

Rosemary Oil

Rosemary oil is an often overlooked herb that also does wonders for revitalizing skin, besides adding flavour in the kitchen! It’s well known for its abilities to reduce excess oil on skin. In addition, it also contains anti-inflammatory properties known to ease redness and puffiness, which is perfect for treating breakouts. Besides helping to clear skin, rosemary also improves circulation, which can help firm and tone. It’s a versatile oil that makes a great addition to your beauty routine.

Frankincense Oil

Frankincense oil is another oil great for acne-prone skin. This oil acts in an anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory way. It is known as a healing and restorative oil, in addition to battling pimples effectively. It also acts as a natural toner and tightens the skin, reducing wrinkles and scars, so it may be able to do double-duty as an acne fighter and anti ager!

Oregano Oil

Not just amazing in the kitchen, oregano in its essential oil form is also amazing for getting rid of pimples. The natural antiseptic and antibacterial properties of oregano oil make it handy for spot treating zits. As with the other oils, oil of oregano has amazing anti-bacterial properties. It also has many other uses, notably being used to prevent colds.

Ylang Ylang Oil

Ylang-Ylang essential oil comes from the flowers of a tropical tree (Cananga odorata) native to South-East Asia. Ylang ylang is also very popular for it’s lovely floral scent, but is also used in a variety of applications, particularly aromatherapy and perfumery.

In traditional herbal medicine, ylang-ylang oil was used extensively in topical treatments for skin and hair problems. The oil was also to have calming and anti-pyretic (anti-fever) properties. Ylang-ylang oil also has a positive effect on skin tone and can improve oily skin.

Essential Oils for Acne Treatment

Spot Treatment

Best used with: Tea Tree oil or Oregano Oil

How to do it:

Tea Tree Oil: You can place your tea tree oil on acne undiluted (once again, I always recommend a skin test first) or mix a few drops of tea tree oil with aloe vera gel. Apply to the affected area 1-2 times per day. If your skin tends to be dry, I would recommend diluting the oil as tea tree oil can dry out your skin quickly.

Oregano Oil: It’s best to dilute oregano oil before putting it on your face. Mix together equal parts oregano oil and a carrier oil, like jojoba, olive or coconut oil. Then, dab the diluted mixture onto the trouble spot regularly until your skin clears up.

Create Your Own Facial Oil (Moisturizing!)

Best used with: Any of the above oils.

How to do it:

Pick out your favorite carrier oil (this could be coconut oil, jojoba oil, argan oil or even olive oil – though I’d recommend coconut!). Then choose your preferred essential oil and add around 4-7 drops. Do this slowly, mixing or shaking the container your oil is in. The scent should be detectable, but not overpowering. Then, you’re done!

Until next time, keep well!

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