Whether it’s an occasional skirmish or a constant struggle, acne is a condition that is experienced by almost everyone. Often the result of inflamed skin, stress, and bacteria, acne responds well to soothing and purifying natural ingredients.
Alone or combined, some suggested essential oils for acne are:
• Cedarwood
• Geranium
• Helichrysum
• Lavender
• Tea tree
Safety First
Acne’s root cause is often stress or dietary-triggered inflammation. If your acne is severe or persistent, you may want to consult with your healthcare professional.
At the first sign of a breakout, try one of these simple aromatherapy remedies.
• Skincare-product add-on. In the palm of your hand, combine an unscented, gentle face wash, toner, or moisturizer with 1 drop of an essential oil from the suggested list at left. Choose a different oil for each step, if you like.
• Cool compress. If your acne is painful or inflamed, add a couple of drops of oil (helichrysum would be best) to a cool compress. You can apply compresses several times a day.
• Simple application. Tea-tree oil and lavender can be applied “neat,” or directly to the breakout. Combining them with jojoba oil before applying can help prevent sensitivity.
Natural Partners for Aromatherapy
For maximum results, combine your essential oils with these other natural remedies:
• Leave it alone. Picking at and popping pimples is the quickest way to cause irritation and scarring.
• Meditate. Staying calm, centered, and stress-free is the best prevention and cure.
• Apply aloe. Aloe vera gel contains two effective acne-fighters: salicylic acid and sulfur.
Though acne can be especially frustrating to treat, you’ll be thankful when using skin-conditioning and healing oils. Try these simple recipes for acne-prone skin.
When your acne is flaring up, help calm it down using a cool compress with added anti-inflammatory essential oils.
2 drops tea-tree oil
2 drops lavender oil
2 drops cedarwood oil
1 tablespoon carrier oil
½ cup cool or cold water
1 clean washcloth
Combine the oils in a large glass bowl, then stir in the water. Soak the washcloth in the water, wring it out, and apply it to the affected area. Hold it there until the washcloth comes to room temperature. Repeat the process with a fresh cloth, as needed.
Shea butter is an African treatment for many skin conditions. You can apply this salve to clean skin as a nighttime remedy to reduce acne-inflamed skin.
¼ cup shea butter
10 drops lavender oil
8 drops helichrysum oil
1 small dark-glass container
Use a double boiler to melt the shea butter. Remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly before stirring in the essential oils. Pour the mixture into your container and allow it to set in the refrigerator before use.
Another downside of acne is the scarring it leaves behind. This remedy can help fade scars and dark spots.
1 drop helichrysum oil
1 teaspoon jojoba oil
1 small dark-glass container
Combine the oils in your container. Shake before use. Massage the mixture into problem areas.