Originally published January 11 2011
Essential Oils help combat acne and scarring
by Fleur Hupston
(NaturalNews) Acne medications on the market often contain acids and chemicals that dry the skin and cause rashes, redness and peeling. Essential oils provide a gentle and inexpensive way of treating acne, clearing infections and healing acne scarring. Known for their antiseptic, antibacterial and calming properties, essential oils can help to clear acne outbreaks and promote healing.
Best Essential Oils for Acne Treatment
Choose only a therapeutic grade essential oil, although it may be more expensive. Cheaper, adulterated oils may exacerbate acne problems.
Essential oils effective in the treatment of acne include palmarosa, geranium, lemon and petitgrain, which help to regulate the control of sebum. Other useful oils include juniper, lavender, lime, neroli, rosemary and sandalwood.
Tea Tree Oil for Acne
Tea tree has antimicrobial properties which act on viruses, bacteria and fungi. Studies have shown a significant reduction in inflamed and non-inflamed lesions when applied topically.
Undiluted tea tree oil may cause skin irritation, redness, blistering, over-drying, and itching when applied directly to the skin.
A tea tree oil solution can be made by mixing 5 parts tea tree oil to 95 parts water (5ml tea tree oil, 95ml water), or by mixing a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil.
Lavender Oil for Acne
Lavender is an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. It has a balancing effect on the skin, helps scar tissue to heal and can generally be used for all skin types. Lavender oil is one of the few oils that can be applied directly to the skin, or try mixing 5 drops of lavender oil and 15 drops of sweet almond oil to make a soothing serum for the skin.
Bergamot Essential Oil for Acne
Bergamot's antiseptic action and ability to promote skin growth makes it perfect for treating acne. It is great for oily skin types and is effective for other skin conditions such as psoriasis and dermatitis.
Bergamot oil can be used in the treatment of depression, stress, tension, fear, hysteria, infection (all types including skin), anorexia, psoriasis, eczema and general convalescence.
Rose Oil
Rose is an antiseptic and very effective for treating acne. Rose essential oil softens and nourishes the skin. It is generally effective for all skin types. A bath taken with a few drops of rose oil can also help to reduce stress.
Sources:
http://www.essentialoils.co.za/essential-oil...
P. Lertsatitthanakorn, S. Taweechaisupapong, C. Aromdee and W. Khunkitti, 2006, In vitro bioactivities of essential oils used for acne control, 2006, International Journal of Aromatherapy, Volume 16, Issue 1, Pages 43-49, International Journal of Aromatherapy, Volume 16, Issue 1
http://www.acnecureit.com/articles/say-no-to...
About the author
Fleur Hupston is a professional freelance writer. She is passionate about natural, healthy living and is currently studying to be a naturopath. She divides her time between writing for Natural News and various other sites, home schooling her children and studying part time.
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