Aromatherapy for Acne

Antiseptic, Anti-inflammatory, Balancing.....

Acne.......most of us have probably suffered from some degree of acne when we were younger. I was reasonably lucky in as much as I only had acne on my back. However, I was a swimmer as a teenager and so always in a swimsuit where my back was visible........as you can imagine I was quite self-conscious about it.

So what exactly is acne?

Acne tends to be more common in teenagers because they are hormonal,(Mums and Dads, don't we know it!) and the oil glands in the skin become more active. Flaky skin, dried sebum and bacteria collect in the pores of the skin blocking them. This then prevents normal oil flow, so it is a bit of a vicious circle!

Blackheads and whiteheads are formed and bacteria grows in the clogged pores causing further irritation, followed by skin erruptions which are the trademark of acne! (This is definitely not a page for the squeamish!)

For most people the main problem is a case of self-awareness and lack of confidence caused by pimples and spots, but in severe cases it can be very painful and ultimately cause scarring.

How can aromatherapy help?

Essential oils have many different therapeutic properties including anti-bacterial, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, astringent and balancing and some are especially known to be good for acne skin-care. They heal and nourish the skin, are excellent cleansers and can help reduce inflammation.

They can be used separately or blended together and then used in various different ways:

• Combined with a carrier oilor natural gel and used directly on spots and pimples. The essential oils should not exceed a 2% dilution.
• As a steam treatment.
• In skin tonics and skin toners.
• Combined with facial clay to make a face mask.

Which are the best essential oils to use?

Other oils that are beneficial include: Benzoin, bergamot, eucalyptus, grapefruit, german chamomile, jasmine, lavender, lemon, lemongrass, patchouli, rosewood, sandalwood and ylang ylang.

Jojoba oil is an especially great carrier oil to use because it is non-greasy, helps clean pores and is moisturising.

Here is an aromatherapy for acne recipe:

Put the jojoba oil in a dark glass bottle and add the essential oils. Tightly close bottle and gently shake the bottle to mix the oils. Apply a small amount to the affected area twice a day. Please make sure that you avoid the eyes, nose and lips. Always gently shake bottle before each use.

If you don't like the smell of tea tree then replace it with lemongrass. If you prefer a gel then try aloe vera gel in place of the jojoba oil.

It may take some time before you see some results, but please be patient because natural aromatherapy for acne remedies DO work.