ByAliaAcne, a common skin concern affecting millions globally, often drives individuals to seek solutions that can sometimes be harsh on the skin. However, a natural and effective alternative lies in face oils. Contrary to the myth that oils worsen acne, the right oils can balance skin’s sebum production, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. This blog post delves into how to use face oil to combat acne, highlighting specific ingredients that can transform your skincare routine.
Face oils are packed with essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties that can help maintain a healthy skin barrier. When used correctly, they can address the underlying causes of acne, such as excess sebum production, clogged pores, and bacteria proliferation. Incorporating face oils into your skincare routine can lead to smoother, clearer, and more radiant skin.
Using an appropriate face oil on oily skin is advisable because it helps balance the skin’s natural oil production, preventing overproduction of sebum that can lead to acne. Unlike strong cleansers that strip the skin and compromise its barrier, face oils nourish and protect the skin, maintaining its hydration and integrity. Non-comedogenic oils like jojoba and rosehip seed oil can regulate sebum without clogging pores, while also providing anti-inflammatory benefits. Integrating these oils into your skincare routine enhances the absorption of active ingredients and promotes a healthier, clearer complexion.
Calendula flowers are renowned for their healing and anti-inflammatory properties. When macerated in extra virgin olive oil, they create a soothing blend that calms irritated skin, reduces redness, and accelerates the healing of acne lesions. Extra virgin olive oil is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, providing deep hydration without clogging pores.
Usage Tip: Apply a few drops of this infused oil to your face after cleansing. Gently massage in circular motions to promote absorption and boost circulation.
Hibiscus flowers are often referred to as the “Botox plant” for their natural anti-ageing properties. They contain alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) that gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells and preventing clogged pores, a common cause of acne.
Usage Tip: Create a face oil by infusing dried hibiscus flowers in a carrier oil like jojoba or apricot kernel oil. Use this oil at night to allow the AHAs to work their magic while you sleep.
Rose petals are not just for romantic gestures; they have excellent astringent properties that help tighten pores and reduce redness. When infused in a carrier oil, rose petals can soothe and hydrate the skin, making it a perfect addition to an acne-fighting face oil.
Usage Tip: Mix rose-infused oil with a few drops of rose geranium essential oil to enhance its astringent and antiseptic properties. Apply to clean skin to balance oil production and prevent acne breakouts.
Lavender buds are known for their calming and antibacterial properties, making them ideal for treating acne. Lavender oil helps reduce inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria, promoting clearer skin.
Usage Tip: Infuse lavender buds in a light carrier oil like jojoba. Use this oil as part of your nighttime skincare routine to take advantage of its calming effects and wake up to refreshed skin.
Chamomile flowers are excellent for sensitive skin prone to acne. They have strong anti-inflammatory and healing properties, which help reduce acne and soothe the skin.
Usage Tip: Infuse chamomile flowers in apricot kernel oil for a gentle, soothing face oil. Apply this oil to your face before bed to help calm inflamed skin and reduce redness overnight.
Apricot kernel oil is light and easily absorbed, making it suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. It is rich in vitamins A and E, which help to nourish and repair the skin.
Usage Tip: Use apricot kernel oil as a base for infusing other acne-fighting herbs and flowers. It can also be used on its own as a moisturiser after cleansing your face.
Jojoba oil closely resembles the skin’s natural sebum, which makes it an excellent balancing oil for all skin types, including acne-prone skin. It helps regulate sebum production and provides hydration without clogging pores.
Usage Tip: Apply jojoba oil directly to your face after cleansing. You can also mix it with other essential oils like tea tree oil for added antibacterial benefits.
Black seed oil is packed with powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help combat acne. It is known for its antibacterial properties, which help reduce acne-causing bacteria on the skin.
Usage Tip: Use black seed oil as a spot treatment on acne-prone areas. Its potent properties make it effective in reducing the size and redness of pimples.
Rosehip seed oil is rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins A, E and C, which help to repair and regenerate the skin. It is particularly beneficial for reducing acne scars and improving overall skin texture.
Rosehip seed oil is often used for its anti-aging benefits because it’s a source of vitamins A and E, says Dr. Shainhouse. “They can help to bring new skin cells to the surface for increased cell turnover.”
Usage Tip: Incorporate rosehip seed oil into your skincare routine by applying it after your serum. It works well for both daytime and night-time use due to its lightweight texture.
Evening primrose oil is high in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid that helps reduce inflammation and improve skin health. It is especially beneficial for hormonal acne.
Usage Tip: Apply evening primrose oil directly to your skin or mix it with your moisturiser. Regular use can help balance hormones and reduce the frequency of acne breakouts.
Rose geranium essential oil has astringent, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties that make it ideal for acne-prone skin. It helps balance oil production and improve skin elasticity.
Usage Tip: Add a few drops of rose geranium essential oil to a carrier oil like jojoba or apricot kernel oil. Use this blend as a daily moisturiser to keep your skin balanced and clear.
Sandalwood essential oil is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps reduce the appearance of acne scars and calms irritated skin.
Usage Tip: Mix sandalwood essential oil with a carrier oil and apply it to your skin after cleansing. Its calming scent also makes it perfect for a relaxing night-time skincare routine.
Vitamin E oil is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from damage and promote healing. It is beneficial for reducing the appearance of acne scars and improving skin texture.
Usage Tip: Use vitamin E oil as an overnight treatment. Apply a small amount to your face after your usual skincare steps to help repair and rejuvenate your skin while you sleep.
Check out our Rosehip Seed and Hibiscus Face Oil including all these amazing ingredients!
To maximise the benefits of face oils for combating acne, it’s essential to integrate them properly into your skincare routine. Here are some skincare steps to follow:
Try the CeraVe Moisturising Cream for Dry to Very Dry Skin with Hyaluronic Acid & 3 Essential Ceramides as your moisturiser!
Face oils can be a game-changer in your skincare routine, especially for those dealing with acne. By choosing the right oils and integrating them into your daily regimen, you can achieve smoother, clearer, and healthier skin. Remember to patch test new oils to ensure they suit your skin type and do not cause any adverse reactions. With patience and consistency, natural face oils can help you combat acne effectively and enjoy a radiant complexion.
Embrace the power of nature and discover the benefits of these incredible oils. Your journey to clearer, smoother skin starts with a simple drop of nature’s best elixirs.
