Essential Oils For Acne
Acne Treatment Home Remedies

Essential oils are powerful therapeutic agents that have a long history of being used in the ancient world to treat just about every ailment known to man at that time. They were also used in purification and embalming rituals. For example, lemon, clove and cinnamon have antiseptic properties and were used before today's medicines and antibiotics were in existence.


WHAT ARE ESSENTIAL OILS FOR ACNE?

In their purest state, quality essential oils contain some of the most concentrated natural extracts. Depending upon the oil, they might provide a reduction or elimination of pain, balance hormones, and contain anti-viral, anti-bacterial, antiseptic, or anti-inflammatory properties.

The oils are obtained from seeds, bushes, shrubs, trees, flowers, and roots. They are extremely concentrated and more potent than dried herbs. In fact, for certain quality oils it may take an entire plant to ultimately product a single drop of distilled essential oil.


HOW DO ESSENTIAL OILS FOR ACNE WORK?

Quality acne essential oils can produce fabulous results as they have the ability to kill off the acne-causing bacteria, dissolve the excess sebum (the skin's oil), while preserving the skin's acid mantle. The mantle is a fine film on the skin's surface that serves as a barrier to bacteria and other contaminants that try to penetrate the skin.


WHICH ESSENTIAL OILS FOR ACNE WORK BEST?

CEDARWOOD - This is a non-drying, antibacterial oil that has antiseptic properties making it a great choice for acne prone skin. This oil will stimulate the lymph system, follicles, and skin cells, along with being used to moisturize and soften the skin.

CLOVE - This oil is a very powerful antioxidant and has some of the highest antiseptic and antimicrobial properties of all the oils. This particular oil must be diluted with a carrier oil, which is so named as these oils "carry" the essential oil to the skin. Grape seed and almond oils are thin and preferred, while olive oil is a much thicker option. If you bypass using a carrier oil, you can expect extreme skin irritation to result. Used properly, you will find that it attacks not only your existing outbreaks, but also those on the horizon. Because of its antifungal, antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic/anesthetic medical properties, you will find that it will not only remove the bacterial infection, but will also provide relief of pain associated with the acne.

EUCALYPTUS STAIGERIANA - This oil does not have the medicine aroma as many of the eucalyptus oils do, but it contains great antiseptic properties which makes for a good cleanser for acne-prone skin.

LAVENDER - Although this oil is considered to be one of the most common and safest oils to use, be sure to test it on your skin before going all out, as some may experience a possible skin sensitivity. It is also known for its soothing, calming and healing properties.

If all goes well, this oil may help to minimize the appearance of acne scars. All you need to do is massage a drop or two on and around the scar. If skin irritation results, you may find it necessary to dilute it with a carrier oil like grape seed. Its medical properties include being antiseptic, antifungal, and it combats excess sebum on the skin, which means it may also help to clear up existing acne and prevent future outbreaks.

MANUKA - This is one of the best essential oils that one can use for the treatment of acne. It has both anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties.

ROSEWOOD - When applied topically, this oil will help to reduce the excess sebum that clogs the pores. It's a great option for doing an acne spot treatment. It is considered to be a gentle oil and well tolerated for those who tend to have sensitive skin. Because of it anti-bacterial and antiseptic properties, it a perfect choice for acneic skin.

SANDALWOOD - This oil has antiviral properties, which may be helpful in the treatment of acne. Although dilution with a carrier oil is generally not required, care must be taken when using this oil as those who tend to have sensitive skin might find their skin becomes irritated.

TEA TREE OIL - According to the British Journal of Dermatology, when this oil is applied topically it has potent anti-microbial effects and is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. It has also been found to be as effective as benzyl peroxide in combating acne. This wonderful oil kills the acne-causing bacteria, along with promoting the healing process.

THYME - This oil is both an antiseptic and antioxidant, along with having some antibacterial properties, thus making it a good choice for attacking acne.

Selection of Acne Essential Oils - First of all you must be sure to select only pure, therapeutic grade essential oils that do not contain any added perfume or fragrance oils. Europe has a set of standards that set forth the principal constituents and chemical profile that each oil should possess. These standards assist in knowing the difference between a therapeutic-grade essential oil and one of a lower quality. These standards are known as Association French Normalization Organization Regulation (AFNOR) and International Standards Organization (ISO). When purchasing your oils, just be sure they meet the necessary standards.


HOW TO USE ESSENTIAL OILS FOR ACNE

Dilution of Acne Essential Oils - You generally need to dilute most essential oils before using them as direct application many times can result in skin irritation. Always keep a carrier oil such as grape seed, almond, mineral, or olive handy when using the oils in case the need to immediately dilute the oil because of discomfort.

Skin Test - Always perform a skin test before you apply an oil all over your face or body. The initial test of an oil should be diluted and applied to a small patch of skin and left on for about 30 minutes. If any redness or irritation occurs, dilute it with additional carrier oil. Then wash it off with soap and water. If you only add water to the irritated area, this will actually intensify the irritation; you must dilute first with carrier oil before proceeding to the soap and water stage.

Application Of Acne Essential Oils - If you layer a few oils, be sure to allow about 3-5 minutes between the application of each oil to see if your skin reacts negatively.


STORAGE OF ESSENTIAL OILS FOR ACNE

To extend their life, be sure to keep all of your acne essential oils in dark glass bottles away from all light, especially the sun. Also, be sure to keep them in a cool location away from all forms of heat.


RECOMMENDED ESSENTIAL OILS FOR ACNE

Amoils Acne Treatment

Amoils acne treatment is 100% natural and organic. It counteracts acne-causing bacteria with no burning or skin irritation. The specially formulated essential oils are proven to counteract and treat acne vulgaris.

Visit the Amoils website for more information.