fbpixel

The 8 Best Essential Oils For Acne And Acne Scars

Featured Image - Essential Oils For Acne

Acne is often caused by genetics, hormonal imbalances, and environmental triggers. This skin condition shows itself in the presence of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Not only do they affect an individual’s self-esteem because of their visibility, but they can also be quite painful and irritating. This is why it is important to seek effective solutions that can actually address the root causes of acne.

If you suffer from acne and prefer natural remedies that are just as effective as any other, consider applying essential oils for acne treatment. Adding these natural ingredients, which have many different therapeutic properties, to your daily skincare routine could significantly improve your skin’s appearance!

What Causes Acne?

bottles of essential oils with small leaves and petals

Hormonal changes are the main cause of acne. If you are in your teenage years, then this may be a problem you have to deal with. Diet is the other culprit. This includes greasy foods and carbs. Your doctor will advise you to avoid or limit your intake of refined carbs.

A stressful life could also trigger the onset of breakouts. Your gut is the common denominator. How it interacts with the brain’s stress signals can affect what you eat, altering how hormonal functioning operates.

When breakouts occur, what most people want is to get rid of them, not paying too much attention to the contents of the commodity they are using. For this reason, a lot of people use dozens of products, one after another, once the previous one fails.

Most OTC acne removal products are highly toxic and can be extremely problematic. Because they are extracted with steam from different parts of the plant, including leaves, stems, flowers, roots, and seeds, essential oils can be highly effective.

You could explore Doterra and Young Living essential oils to clear skin flare-ups such as eczema, rosacea, and acne. If you are struggling with acne, consider using the following essential oils:

The Top 8 Essential Oils for Treating Acne

essential oil serum dropping on open palm handMoving towards these healthier acne removal strategies should help you see a better start to acne care. Whenever you need to make acne adjustments, try out these essential oils.

  1. Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender contains antioxidant and antimicrobial qualities that are ideal for nourishing and soothing the skin. It has been used for many years to heal dry skin, treat acne, and reduce dark spots and scars.

Lavender is also known to reduce stress and anxiety [1] linked to acne. Its therapeutic properties improve sleep, promoting radiant skin. Researchers believe that an episode of breakouts can result from the high production of sebum triggered by stress.

  1. Tea Tree Oil

Also known as melaleuca, tea tree oil has been used for decades for its antimicrobial and antiseptic qualities to cleanse the skin. Today, you can easily find products made with tea tree oil at your local drugstore. Scientific reviews suggest that this product reduces lesions and acne vulgaris.

  1. Clary Sage

This oil contains linalyl acetate, which is great at lowering levels of skin irritation. It also works as a natural remedy for acne breakouts. It does so by regulating the production of oil on the skin. It also supports hormonal balance and reduces feelings of stress and anxiety. Because stress increases the levels of the hormone cortisol [1], stressed adults, especially women, are susceptible to acne.

Clary sage contains antidepressant effects necessary for fighting anxiety and improving mood. Inhaling clary sage has been found to reduce cortisol levels by up to 36 percent. The recipe for it is simple. Diffuse 5 drops of the oil and apply it directly to your skin using a clean cotton ball. You could dilute it with coconut, witch hazel, or jojoba oil. It should help fight insomnia, which is also responsible for acne breakouts.

  1. Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil is known for its refreshing and invigorating aroma, but it also offers benefits for acne-prone skin. Its natural cooling sensation can help alleviate inflammation and redness associated with acne breakouts. The oil contains antimicrobial properties that may help combat acne-causing bacteria, potentially reducing the occurrence of new pimples.

When using peppermint oil for acne, it’s important to dilute it properly before applying it to the skin. Due to its potency, peppermint oil should be used with caution and in low concentrations. Consider blending a small amount of peppermint oil with a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil or coconut oil, before applying it to the affected areas.

  1. Lemongrass Oil

Lemongrass stimulates the olfactory system and the skin. It contains antimicrobial and antiseptic properties necessary for destroying zits. It can be used to clear or prevent the onset of pimples and is also great at revitalizing the skin.

  1. Frankincense Oil

This essential oil contains sedative properties and is very gentle on the skin. It is known to effectively heal wounds and scars. It also offers relief to irritated skin, meaning it can be comfortably used to reduce inflammation and balance oil production.

  1. Rosemary Oil

Native to the Mediterranean regions, rosemary essential oil can be used to soothe itchy skin and relieve body acne. Before applying rosemary to your skin, dilute it with a carrier oil, such as jojoba. Rub the mixture on the affected area at least twice daily.

  1. Almond Oil

Almond oil offers many benefits for acne-prone skin. Because it’s rich in vitamin E, almond oil helps moisturize and hydrate the skin, which helps promote a healthy skin complexion. It is suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone skin and oily skin, as it is lightweight and can be easily absorbed.

To use almond oil for acne, apply it as a gentle and moisturizing base for essential oils. It reduces the chances of having further breakouts because of its non-comedogenic nature, which won’t clog pores. It also has soothing properties that can give relief to irritated skin suffering from redness and inflammation related to acne.

essential oil with roller and small leaves

Why You Should Use Essential Oils for Acne

Anyone can face an occasional breakout episode. It can leave painful scars on the face, arms, back, and even the chest. Left untreated, it can lead to scarring, which may lower self-esteem.

Clogged pores, excess sebum production, and bacteria can all trigger the formation of breakouts. It is essential to note that harsh chemicals easily purchased from any local drugstore can damage the skin, causing further irritation.

Essential oils have been scientifically proven to kill acne-causing bacteria naturally. Some, such as lavender oil, are also great at soothing the skin. Most of these, including clary sage, can also eliminate insomnia and sleep deprivation while also balancing hormonal levels. The most effective way to use the oils is to apply about 2–3 drops topically. They can be applied directly to the area affected or in combination with carrier oil.

Whether it is a result of sensitive skin or allergies, there are many reasons you will want to avoid chemical acne treatments such as medicated ointments and drying lotions. Microdermabrasion is gaining popularity among office ladies these days as it offers acne removal strategies using a milder method.

If you’re feeling lazy but want an effective and straight-forward treatment for skincare, then you’ll be interested to find out that not only does microdermabrasion remove blackheads, the appearance of acne, and fine lines, but it can also be done in the convenience of your own home.

The best essential oils for acne-prone skin can quickly fight off blemishes without irritating the skin. Essential oils can be applied topically, enhancing their powerful, naturally therapeutic properties. Antibacterial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory essential oils offer faster relief by killing bacteria and reducing inflammation.

essential oil with flower petals in a bowl

Frequently Asked Questions

Can essential oils completely cure acne?

While essential oils can be a beneficial part of an acne-fighting regimen, it’s important to note that they may not completely cure severe cases of acne on their own. They can help reduce inflammation, fight bacteria, and promote skin healing, but a comprehensive approach that includes proper skin care, a balanced diet, and healthy lifestyle choices is recommended for more significant and lasting results.

How often should I apply essential oils for acne?

The frequency of application depends on your skin’s sensitivity and the specific essential oil you’re using. In general, start by using essential oils for acne once or twice a day. It’s crucial to perform a patch test before regular use to ensure your skin tolerates the oil well. If any irritation occurs, reduce the frequency or dilute the oil further.

Are there any essential oils to avoid for acne-prone skin?

While many essential oils can be beneficial for acne-prone skin, some may be too strong or potentially exacerbate the condition. Oils like cinnamon, clove, and oregano are considered “hot” oils and can be harsh on the skin. It’s best to avoid these oils or use them sparingly, heavily diluted, and under the guidance of a qualified aromatherapist.

Can essential oils replace my current acne medication?

Essential oils can be a complementary addition to your acne treatment, but they should not replace prescribed medications without consulting a healthcare professional. If you’re using prescribed acne medication, speak to your dermatologist before incorporating essential oils into your routine to ensure there are no interactions or conflicts.

Is it safe to use essential oils on sensitive skin?

Yes, many essential oils are safe for sensitive skin when properly diluted and used in moderation. However, everyone’s skin reacts differently, so it’s important to do a patch test before applying any essential oil to a larger area. Start with a low dilution and observe your skin’s response. If you experience any irritation or redness, discontinue use.

2 bottles of lavender essential oil

Conclusion

Incorporating essential oils into your skincare routine is just one facet of a holistic approach to achieving and maintaining clear skin. By addressing internal and external factors, you can optimize your skin’s health and radiance.

Say goodbye to the endless cycle of ineffective acne treatments and embrace the natural power of essential oils. These aromatic wonders offer a gentle yet effective solution to acne, promoting healthier skin without harsh chemicals. By understanding your skin’s needs and utilizing the properties of essential oils, you can embark on a journey towards clearer, more radiant skin.

Also, check out the other comparison review I did below for more options on facial care procedures: