Juniper essential oil
It is known for its amazing health benefits, like increasing urine elimination, healing skin conditions, increasing circulation, detoxification, and antiseptic properties. Research has shown that it has more than 87 different active constituent compounds, including antibacterials, antioxidants, and antifungals. A 2005 study found juniper berry oil’s antibacterial activity is great to control acne, The scientists discovered that, when applied topically, or in along with carrier oils, it had amazing anti-acne activity. To use it for acne, dilute 2–3 drops of juniper berry essential oil in a carrier oil and then use as a targeted treatment.
Clary Sage
Clary sage essential oil, a close relative of common garden sage, is among board-certified dermatologist Cybele Fishman, MD’s top three oils for fighting acne. “Clary sage oil also acts against bad bacteria Staphylococcus aureus,” Dr. Fishman notes. There is increasing evidence that this species is a major culprit in causing skin conditions like acne. A study published in Advances in Dermatology and Allergology tested the potency of clary sage on multiple drug-resistant bacterial strains, and found that it was active against bacteria that cause skin infections that can lead to acne breakouts. To use clary sage essential oil for acne, apply 1 to 3 drops of it to the affected areas using a clean cotton ball. “I like to put a few drops in a carrier oil to dilute it,” Dr. Fishman. “I like jojoba as a carrier oil because it is not comedogenic (pore-clogging).”
Korean Fir
This essential oil may not ring a bell, but if you’re having acne problems, you’ll want to get to know it. Native to the higher mountains of South Korea, Korean fir has been used to treat colds, indigestion, stomachaches, and vascular and pulmonary diseases, in addition to acne. “Korean fir has [antibacterial] activity against P. acnes—which is linked to the skin condition of acne—and reduces many inflammatory markers that are implicated in acne,” notes Dr. Fishman. Research has found the essential oil to exhibit some broad spectrum antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus as well. Dr. Fishman suggests putting a few drops in a carrier oil and applying it directly to the skin. A cotton ball will ensure the oil is concentrated on the intended spot without wasting it or spreading it onto unwanted areas. Looking to treat acne scars? Here’s how to get rid of the most common types.
Tea Tree Oil
The incredibly useful tea tree oil is considered one of the most effective essential oils for acne. “Besides its well-known antimicrobial properties, tea tree oil displays anti-inflammatory activities,” notes Jeanette Jacknin, MD, board-certified holistic dermatologist, author, speaker, and cosmeceutical consultant. There’s research to back it up. A three-month clinical trial involving 124 patients found that while both tea tree oil and benzoyl peroxide helped reduce acne, fewer patients in the tea tree oil group reported skin discomfort. Another study, conducted in 2007, found tea tree oil to be 3.6 times more effective than the placebo used. And in terms of overall acne severity, tea tree oil was 5.8 times more effective. “One drop of pure tea tree oil can be applied directly to each acne lesion twice a day,” advises Dr. Jacknin. “Results should be comparable to those achieved with benzoyl peroxide.”
Lavender
Perhaps one of the most common essential oils, lavender oil is known for its ability to eliminate nervous tension, relieve pain, enhance blood circulation, treat respiratory problems, and more. It’s also well-known for helping treat acne breakouts thanks to its analgesic, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology in 2003 concluded that inhalation of the oil provided significant calming effects on participants. Because some acne is associated with stress, reducing tension can calm down breakouts. Lavender essential oil can be applied via a cotton swab or Q-Tip, focusing on the problem areas. Make sure to dilute it with a carrier oil first, as there’s some evidence that using lavender essential oil directly on the skin may be harmful.
