Oils Beneficial for Acne-Prone Skin
What’s great about natural oils is that they not only hydrate without clogging pores, but they provide antioxidant protection and anti-inflammatory properties—both key steps in reducing acne outbreaks.
These oils can also help fight bacteria, calm irritation, soothe sensitivities, balance oil production, and hydrate without clogging pores or leaving a greasy feel on your skin. Plus, they work naturally with the skin to support collagen and elastin production, rather than breaking down or drying skin cells, like most conventional, drying, acne products do.
- Tea tree oil: This oil is a heavyweight champion when it comes to getting rid of bacteria, which is why it’s great for acne-prone skin. In fact, studies have found it to be as effective at treating acne as benzoyl peroxide, so why use harsh ingredients? Just be sure to use it diluted in some water, or try an organic natural acne treatment.
My personal favourite has got to be Thursday Plantation Tea Tree Oil. It has helped me tremendously over the years ( since 2014 ), whenever I get the zit during that time of the month. I have been recommending this oil to my acne-prone friends and colleagues as well as on Instagram. Read my review : Thursday Plantation Tea Tree Oil 100% Pure Multipurpose Oil.
I hope you like this as much as I do. It is 100% pure with no other fillers, unlike other brands and most importantly, it is affordable and lasts a long while. Shop the 10ml size here and the 50ml size here. Try out the 10ml size first and if you works well for you, you can then consider the 50ml size to prevent any wastage. But of course, the 50ml size would be cheaper per ml as compared to the 10ml size.
2. Lavender oil: This oil has a great reputation for wound healing, and is also known to be effective against bacteria and oxidating free radicals. It’s been found to be specifically effective against the bacteria that causes acne, and is found in many natural acne formulas. Because it’s so soothing, it can calm any redness and inflammation.
Unfortunately, since Thursday Plantation Tea Tree Oil has worked very well for me, I have not venture to using other oils. I do use Lavender Oil in my bedroom to induce sleep. My favourite is Now Lavender Oil which you can get on Iherb. Quote OKI787 to get 5% discount if you are a first time customer. Shop here. I enjoyed shopping on Iherb because of the wide ranging and affordable choices and you get free shipping if your order is over US$40.
3.Jojoba oil: This oil is very similar to our own skin oil (called “sebum”), and therefore can “trick” the body into making less sebum. Less sebum may mean less oily skin, and less acne. Jojoba mixes easily with our skin oils, and can cleanse and purify. It takes several days to weeks of regular use to see the results, so be patient. You can shop here.
4. Hemp seed oil: Considered a natural acne solution, hemp oil is a natural moisturizer and can help heal acne scars. It has natural essential fatty acids that help heal skin lesions, balance dry skin, and fight skin inflammation—yet it’s non-greasy. You can shop here.
5. Borage oil: This oil has a natural compound that can have a strong anti-inflammatory action on your skin. Supplementing your diet with borage oil can help reduce overall inflammation. Topical application may also be effective—borage oil is also a natural source of salicylic acid, which is regularly used in anti-acne skin care. Most products use the chemical form, however. Your skin will adapt to the natural form much better. Shop here.
6. Evening primrose oil: This oil has a great reputation for taming inflammation. It also contains essential fatty acids that help balance and firm skin, making pores less visible. Evening primrose also helps dilute skin sebum so it’s less likely to clog pores.
I used to take Evening Primrose Oil supplement to relieve menstrual cramps but it did not help. I have not tried it for acne purposes. Shop here, this brand is a popular choice on Iherb for EPO.
7. Chia seeds: These are high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, and can help regulate hormones and stabilize insulin. Don’t apply these to your face—instead, incorporate them into your diet to gain the acne-reducing benefits. They’re great in smoothies!
Chia seeds are a staple in my kitchen where I will add it to my overnight oats, smoothie and as chia seed pudding. This is my favourite brand - shop here.
8. Chamomile: This plant is strong in anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties—the perfect combination for reducing acne. In fact, you may already find this ingredient in some over-the-counter acne products. Unfortunately, they often have other harsh chemical ingredients as well. To enjoy the benefits of chamomile, make a face wash with 1 tablespoon dried chamomile flower heads in one cup boiling water, then apply the solution to the face with cotton balls. You can also chill a chamomile tea bag and press it lightly against pimples, or use cooled chamomile tea to cleanse skin. Shop chamomile supplements here and the chamomile tea here. Yogi is a favourite brand of mine, for tea.
9. Echinacea: Research shows that Echinacea can help kill acne-causing bacteria and counteract inflammation. Look for Echinacea toners and face masks. Shop for the supplement here. To my understanding, Echinacea is not recommended for long term usage.
What to Avoid
In addition to using the oils listed above, be sure to avoid the following, as they can make acne worse:- Dimethicone: This is a pore-clogging ingredient found in many skin care and cosmetic products today. It can be hard to avoid, but it’s worth it—many people have found that their acne cleared up after they stopped using products containing dimethicone.
- Clogging oils: These include wheat germ and mineral oils.
No comments
Post a Comment