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One of the most commonly suggested essential oils for acne is tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia). The Medical Journal of Australia published a study that found a gel containing 5% tea tree oil treated acne as effectively as a lotion containing 5% benzoyl peroxide (a standard medical treatment), with far fewer side effects.
Most people can dab a little tea tree oil directly onto pimples. However, if you have never used tea tree, spot test first to make sure you don't have a bad reaction, especially if your skin is very sensitive. You can also dilute tea tree in a carrier oil for use on acne.
Here's an intensive way to deal with acne from Aromatherapy: A Complete Guide to the Healing Art:
If you do have sensitive skin and tea tree oil alone is too strong for you, other acne-fighting essential oils include:
If you have dry skin, the following essential oils for acne may work best:
The following aromatherapy recipes give you some options for using essential oils to fight acne.
Day Oil
Combine ingredients in a 2-ounce glass dropper bottle. Cap and shake well.
To use: Shake. Apply 3 to 4 drops to your face. Wait for 5 to 10 minutes and then use a tissue to blot off surplus oil. Do not get in eyes.
Night Oil
Combine the evening primrose and essential oils in a 2-ounce glass dropper bottle. Fill bottle with kukui nut oil. Cap and shake well.
To use: Shake. Apply 3 to 4 drops to your face. Wait for 5 to 10 minutes and then use a tissue to blot off surplus oil. Do not get in eyes.
Source: The Complete Aromatherapy & Essential Oils Handbook for Everyday Wellness
From Aromatherapy: A Complete Guide to the Healing Art:
From Healing With Aromatherapy:
Apply to your skin morning and night.
Try this facial steam from Healing With Aromatherapy:
Tea Tree Toner
Source: EcoBeauty: Scrubs, Rubs, Masks, and Bath Bombs
Source: Massage & Aromatherapy: Simple Techniques to Use at Home
Also see Face Masks For Acne
Hydrosols are a by-product of the steam distillation of essential oils and are gentler than the oils, making hydrosols a good option for people with very sensitive skin.
For toner for skin with acne, The Essential Guide to Natural Skin Care suggests:
Blend hydrosols in a small, dark spray bottle. Lightly mist face.
It's OK to keep this toner on the bathroom counter, away from direct sunlight, for one to two months. Otherwise, store the toner in the refrigerator.
Photo Credit: 123RF Stock Photo