Essential Oils for Acne

Natural Support for Blemish-Prone Skin

Acne is a common skin condition affecting the face, back, and neck. It ranges from mild pimples and blackheads to painful cysts and scarring. While over-the-counter treatments are available, many people turn to essential oils for acne support to help reduce inflammation, promote healing, and restore skin balance.*

What Causes Acne?

Acne often results from an overproduction of sebum, the skin’s natural oil. This excess oil can clog pores, especially when combined with bacteria and dead skin cells. Additional contributors include:

• Hormonal changes (e.g., birth control pills)
• Poor or unbalanced diet
• Smoking or alcohol use
• Blood impurities
• Harsh skincare or over-cleansing

For optimal skin health, cleanse gently (do not scrub), eat a balanced diet, avoid fatty foods, and get regular outdoor exercise.

How to Use Essential Oils for Acne

Certain essential oils can be applied directly (neat) to blemishes, such as lavender essential oil—but only with extreme care. Apply sparingly at night using a cotton swab and discontinue if irritation occurs.

For broader skincare support, consider these DIY acne oil blends:

14-Day Skin Reset Routine

1. Cleanse: Wash your face and neck twice daily with pure soap.
2. Rinse: Rinse 2-5 times with warm running tap water.
3. Final Rinse: Add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to final rinse water.
4. Avoid Makeup: Go makeup-free for 14 days.

Morning Acne Support Blend

Dilute in 2 tablespoons sweet almond oil:

• 17 drops chamomile essential oil
• 3 drops myrrh essential oil
• 10 drops palmarosa essential oil
• 5 drops yarrow essential oil
• 20 drops carrot seed essential oil

Let absorb for 5 minutes, then blot off any excess oil with a tissue.

Alternative Acne Facial Blend

Combine with 2 tablespoons sweet almond oil:

• 4 drops cedarwood essential oil
• 6 drops lavender essential oil
• 2 drops lemongrass essential oil

Important: Do not exceed 2% total essential oils in your carrier oil. Always patch test before full application. Some individuals may experience sensitivity, but many report significant improvements in skin clarity.*

Shop Acne-Friendly Essential Oils

Explore our full selection of pure essential oils for acne support:

• Lavender Essential Oil
• Chamomile Roman Essential Oil
• Cedarwood Essential Oil
• Carrot Seed Essential Oil
• Palmarosa Essential Oil
• Myrrh Essential Oil

Additional References

Worwood, Valerie Ann. “The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy.” New World Library, 1991. Pages 129-132.

Note: This information has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease.