Originally published September 2 2011
Use essential oils to treat and heal acne
by Danna Norek
(NaturalNews) Essential oils are one of the most effective natural weapons against acne. Topical use of a few specific essential oils can be a first line defense against the bacteria that cause pimples to form. There are also natural skin toning oils that help to close the pores so acne-causing debris are unable to cause inflammation.
Essential oils in general contain some excellent antibacterial properties. However, some of them are not suitable for use on the skin because of their volatile nature. They may either burn the skin or need to be diluted to such a weak solution that they lose their effectiveness.
Two of the most powerful antibacterial oils that are also safe and gentle enough for topical use are lavender and tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is popular for skin applications due to its gentle nature and rare occurrence of allergic reactions. Some don't care for its rather medicinal smell while others like the distinct aroma.
Tea tree oil is derived from the leaves of a tree that grows in Australia called the Melaleuca alternifolia. The leaves of this tree were commonly used as a substitute for tea. Hence, the term "tea tree oil" was born. Prior to its use as an acne remedy, it was primarily used to disinfect scrapes and cuts.
It also may be used as a natural remedy for athlete's foot due to its excellent antimicrobial and antifungal properties. While tea tree oil has many topical applications, it may not be taken orally. Side effects including diarrhea, nausea, and sleepiness may occur if it is taken orally.
Lavender is an essential oil that may be surprising to some as an acne treatment. Lavender is mostly known for its calming qualities. Studies have shown that simply inhaling pure lavender essential oil had calming effects on the brain. It is used in many bath and body products due to its pleasant aroma.
Lavender oil also contains several potent antibacterial compounds. It is gentle enough that it can be used topically on the skin without causing irritation. In the proper dilutions, it can be a wonderful addition to an acne skin care routine. It is also excellent as an additive in natural acne skin care products.
Lavender oil is commonly used as a burn salve and as a natural cleanser for skin cuts and abrasions as well. It contains properties that help accelerate the wound healing process. This means it may also help accelerate the healing of existing acne lesions.
Another essential oil that may be one to consider for oily acne prone skin is lemongrass. Lemongrass has a pleasant lemon scent. It is great for oily skin since it acts as a natural astringent without over drying the skin.
Lemongrass also contains antibacterial and antimicrobial components. This combination of astringent and antibacterial qualities makes it an excellent choice for acne prone skin.
Sources :
http://altmedicine.about.com/od/herbsuppleme...
http://www.essentialoils.co.za/essential-oil...
http://aromatherapy.savvy-cafe.com/the-benef...
About the author
Danna Norek is the owner and primary contributor for several natural health blogs and websites, where she frequently shares her experiences and knowledge on herbal supplements, natural remedies, vitamins, and healthy lifestyle habits. You can find information on a 100% natural, chemical free deodorant here at Natural Effective Deodorant and an all natural sebum-neutralizing, SLS, paraben and chemical free Acne Soap with lavender, lemongrass and tea tree essential oils here at All Natural Acne Soap.
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