No one likes acne. It is an obnoxious side effect of our adolescence that sometimes follows us into our adulthood. Over $3 billion a year is spent on acne products and treatments in the US alone. Many of these products contain harmful chemicals and while they may take care of your acne they can also cause damage to your body over time. You do not have to take risks to be acne free. In recent years, more people are recognizing and actively using essential oils to battle acne. We have created a list of the top essential oils for acne and skin care that can be a safe natural alternative to the products that you might currently have in your cabinet.
1. Lavender Oil
Lavender is known for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. These properties help your skin fight and calm breakouts. Try mixing a few drops of lavender into almond or jojoba oil and apply as a moisturizer 1-2 times a day.
2. Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree is a natural anti-fungal and antibacterial that can reduce inflammation and swelling from infected and clogged pores that cause pimples. You can use Tea Tree as a toner to fight blemishes by applying with a cotton ball or Q-tip directly to the infected area. If you have sensitive skin, mix with a carrier oil before applying. This oil can dry your skin, so be sure to use moisturizer afterwards.
3. Frankincense Oil
Frankincense is nicknamed “The King of Oils” and for great reasons! Frankincense is an anti-inflammatory, astringent, and disinfectant. It is known for its healing properties and helps heal damaged skin, acne scars, and wrinkles. It is also known to help with stretch marks, eczema and wound healing. Mix a few drops to a carrier oil and apply directly to the area of concern. Not only does Frankincense offer incredible benefits to your skin, but is also great for digestion, immunity, inflammation, pain, and many other body needs and functions.
4. Chamomile Oil
Like Frankincense, Chamomile has a large amount of beneficial health properties, far too many to list. However, specifically to skin it is an antiseptic, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and bactericidal. Chamomile calms and reduces redness and lightens dark spots left from acne. Add a few drops into your cleansing regimen to see some of these benefits for yourself!
5. Cypress Oil
Cypress is an astringent and antiseptic. It can help tighten, tone, minimize pores, and reduce oil in oily skin. Add a few drops into an ounce of rose water and apply directly to your skin. You can also mix with jojoba oil or another carrier oil to help diminish bruises, cellulite, and spider veins.
6. Rosemary Oil
Rosemary also reduces excess oil in your skin just like Cypress. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness caused by acne infections. Mix Rosemary into your moisturizer or with a carrier oil for a natural acne fighting skin hydrator.
7. Geranium Oil
Geranium is also rich in antibacterial and antioxidant properties. It helps combat acne and is a great anti-aging solution. Mix two drops into coconut oil or another carrier oil and apply twice a day for desired results.