The use of essential oils for acne treatment began eons ago. However, it is only recently that experts began studying their effectiveness in treating acne. Consequently, the internet is full of articles about essential oils for acne treatment. Many people read them and use the recommended aromatherapy oils to treat their breakouts but they do not get healed. This is usually because those articles are based on anecdotal evidence rather than scientific facts. If this has happened to you, take heart because you are in the right place. We have scoured through scientific data and compiled the top three evidence-based essential oils for treating acne.
1 Tea Tree Essential Oil
Tea tree essential oil is extracted from the leaves of the tea tree. A 2007 study found that it effectively treated mild to moderate acne. Side effects experienced by the treatment group were tolerable and similar to those experienced by the placebo group.
Another 1990 study compared it to benzoyl peroxide which is one of the most commonly used acne medications. It found that tea tree essential oil was not only effective for treating acne, but it had fewer side effects compared to the medication though its onset of action was slower.
2 Oregano Essential Oil
Oregano is used in the kitchen to flavor pizza and pasta sauces. In the lab, its essential oil which is obtained from the leaves has been proven to kill the bacteria that cause acne known as Propionibacterium acnes. A 2018 study even found that it had superior healing and antimicrobial effects when compared to antibiotics used to treat these bacteria.
3 Rosemary Essential Oil
Rosemary is another culinary herb with a potent essential oil that is steam distilled from its leaves. A 2007 study found that it destroys acne-causing bacteria. Another 2020 study found that it also has anti-inflammatory properties which are useful for relieving the redness and swelling associated with some acne lesions.
How to Use Essential Oils for Acne Treatment
Essential oils are applied to the skin after being diluted with other substances because they are highly concentrated extracts. To use them for acne, it is best to mix them with aloe vera gel or with a carrier oil like sweet almond oil.
One drop of the essential oil is mixed with one teaspoon (5 ml) of the carrier oil in a dark container to make an organic acne treatment product that can be applied to the affected area. However, before using it on your face, do a patch test by applying it to your inner arm and wait for 24 hours to see if it will irritate your skin.
In conclusion, tea tree, oregano, and rosemary are the top three essential oils that have been scientifically proven to be effective alternatives to medications used to treat acne. They are also safe since their side effects are often less than those experienced by persons using conventional mediations.
Share in the comments section your favorite essential oils for acne treatment.