With dozens of acne products on supermarket and beauty store shelves, the quest to rid your skin of acne can seem frustrating and confusing at best. And if you have acne, chances are you have probably tried many of these cures and more, but have you ever considered the natural healing power of essential oils?

What are essential oils?

Essential oils are water-like substances, extracted from plants, herbs, wood barks, flowers and fruits, which contain a multitude of beneficial properties. Unlike traditional "oils" however, these substances are not oily or sticky and instead more closely resemble water droplets. Two of the main methods for extracting essential oils are steam distillation and expression. Steam distillation forces steam into a large container filled with the plant material. The steam is used to break open or rupture the plants, releasing the oil, which is then cooled and collected for bottling. Expression is a process whereby the flower or fruit is squeezed or pressed in order to 'express' the oil from the plant. Depending upon the plant, it can take anywhere from hundreds, to hundreds of thousands of pounds of plants to produce just one pound of essential oil, making some oils more expensive than others. Essential oils are also highly concentrated, and for many home remedies, only 1-2 drops are needed for an effective treatment.

How do they work?

There are several ways in which essential oils can work to improve your skin. Many essential oils are naturally antibacterial, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, as well as being highly antiseptic, making them invaluable in the treatment of acne. Another benefit is their power to improve the lymphatic flow. Lymph is a bodily fluid that surrounds all bodily tissues and removes waste material from the bloodstream and body. Essential oils not only speed up this process, but prevent the buildup of toxins, as well. Furthermore, these efficient oils can improve circulation, which increases the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the skin. Specific oils can be also used to help balance the rate at which sebum is produced by the sebaceous glands, key to improving (and controlling) the appearance of acne.

Recipe for success

There are several essential oils which specifically address acne concerns. Geranium, rosemary, lavender and cedarwood will help to balance and regulate oily skin, while lemon and bergamot are strongly antibacterial and cleansing. Also, calendula, peppermint and tea tree are antiseptic and healing. With the exception of lavender and tea tree oil, most essential oils are too highly concentrated to be put directly on the skin and must be diluted with a base oil. For an acneic skin, consider lightweight oils such as: almond, jojoba, borage seed or evening primrose, all excellent choices for oily or blemished skin. Valerie Gennari Cooksley offers a simple facial cleanser to balance oily skin in her book, Aromatherapy- Soothing Remedies to Restore, Rejuvenate, and Heal . Mix the following and use daily:

2 tsp. hazelnut oil

1 tsp. jojoba oil

¼ tsp. carrot seed oil

6 drops rosemary

2 drops geranium

2 drops basil

2 drops cypress

Cooksley also suggests giving your face a steam treatment two to three times a week. This will open and clear the pores while improving circulation. However, be cautious when using hot liquids near the face. Instead of water that has just been boiled (which may burn the skin), allow freshly boiled water to rest for 5 minutes, and then pour the water into a heat-proof glass bowl. Place the bowl in secure location, and with a towel draped over your head to hold in the steam, lean over the bowl for fifteen to twenty minutes. Stay at least eight inches from the water to prevent a steam burn and enjoy maximum benefit. For this revitalizing steam treatment, you will need:

4-6 cups just boiled water

1 drop bergamot

2 drops lemon

In The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy, Valerie Ann Worwood suggests the following spot mix to combat unsightly blemishes which seem to show up at the most inconvenient times. Simply dab a little of this mixture on the offending spot twice a day for three days:

1 drop camphor

1 drop lemon

1 drop lavender

Blend in 6 drops evening primrose oil

Quality control

For skincare uses, it is vitally important to only use pure essential oils, and avoid those labeled "perfume oil" or "fragrance oil" as these may be synthetic versions of essential oils, and are not safe for use on the skin. If possible, consider purchasing organic essential oils as well, which will guarantee that the oil is free from pesticides or chemical residue. Base oils should also be cold-pressed and organic to ensure that the beneficial vitamins and minerals were not stripped away with solvents or preservatives. Finally, remember to store essential oils in dark glass bottles and keep them in a cool place, away from direct light—especially sunlight.

Side effects?

When used properly and in small doses, side effects are rare but can include: rash, itching, burning, stinging or irritation. However, before using any essential oil, always conduct a patch test: place one drop of oil on the inside of your elbow, cover with a bandage and leave for 24 hours. If you experience any itching or redness, do not use the oil, especially on the face.

Further considerations include: citrus essential oils, such as lemon, lime, orange or grapefruit may increase the risk of sunburn or cause sensitivity to sunlight and so, should be avoided when planning a trip to the beach or pool. Pregnant women should consult their doctor before using any oils, especially during the first trimester, and essential oils are not recommended for any woman who has a history of miscarriage or is nursing. Finally, essential oils should also not be used on children under the age of one and should be carefully diluted when used on older children. Those with medical conditions such as epilepsy or diabetes should consult their doctor before using any essential oils to avoid possible complications.

See Also:

Unveiling Clear Skin the Natural Way

Aromatherapy, Holistic Treatments and Home Care