a teenage girl applying a gray mud facial mask

Banish Blemishes with Essential Oils

By:
Nan Fornal
This content originally appeared on 

Many of us expected to leave acne behind once we were out of our teens. The blemishes we now find as adults seem like cruel, as well as unsightly, little jokes. With the help of aromatherapy and herbals, it's possible to help clear the skin of breakouts and to keep them at bay.

Basic Facial Care Routine

Among the steps recommended for acne by aromatherapists Kathi Keville and Mindy Green:

  • Thorough Cleansing

    Depending on your skin type, cleanse up to three times a day.

  • Facial Steaming

    Take the time to gently steam your skin up to twice a week.

  • Exfoliation

    Use only gentle, natural exfoliants, such as papaya.

  • Astringent Mask

    To a clay base, add toner and antibacterial essential oils.

  • Antiseptic & Healing Toner

    Use vinegar and aloe vera or hydrosols.

  • Moisturize

    Find a lotion that's not heavy or greasy, one whose main ingredient is aloe.

Essential Oils for Acne Treatment

  • Essential oil of tea tree is popular for acne with blackheads, cysts, or infection.
  • Blue chamomile, lavender, and rose geranium help cool an outbreak.
  • For hormone-related acne, even after adolescence, consider carrot seed, clary sage, and frankincense. Dilute essential oils in a carrier oil like argan and do a patch test before applying to your face.