Some acne usually occurs in teenagers, although many adults have occasional bouts of acne as well.  There are many factors that contribute to acne.  Keratin is a protein that is produced by the skin cells, and too much of it can form clumps that block oil ducts. When this happens, bacteria can form, causing a pimple.

Another possible cause of acne in teen girls is hormonal changes.  Other theories about acne have little foundation to back them up. For example, certain foods have been said to cause acne, such as chocolate or French fries.  These claims are unfounded.  There is no evidence that foods cause acne.   There are drug treatments available for the treatment of acne.  The most common are topical treatments, which often contain antibiotics.

Herbal remedies for acne include:

Tea Tree Oil – Tea tree oil comes from this Australian tree.  Used as a topical treatment, in studies it was found to be as effective as benzoil peroxide but with fewer side effects.  To use, first gently cleanse the skin and pat dry. Apply diluted tea tree oil to the problem areas and let dry.  You can purchase tea tree oil already diluted or you can dilute yourself using jojoba oil with 5 to 15% tea tree oil.  Use the mixture twice a day.  Test a small spot first to ensure that you do not get a rash.  Some people with sensitive skin can have a small reaction to tea tree oil.  Do not take internally.

Lavender – Lavender essential oil is often used as an anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial.  It is also astringent.  It is good on minor skin irritations and burns. To use, dot lavender essential oil onto blemishes individually using a cotton swab.  Used once or twice per day on mild acne, this will help dry up the blemishes.

Burdock – Burdock is often taken internally as a tea. The leaves, roots and stems of the burdock plant are rich in minerals that promote sweating and urination (a natural diuretic).  For the treatment of acne, use burdock topically, as a face wash.  Apply cooled tea to the skin with a washcloth and rinse with cool water.

Calendula – Used as a remedy for many skin ailments, calendula has antibacterial and calming properties. Calendula is often found as a tea.  To use, make the tea and allow cooling. Then apply to the face with a cotton ball or cloth. There are also calendula creams available that can be found at your local natural food store. These creams are usually too thick in consistency to help with acne, however, they can be used lightly.

Chamomile – This flowering herb is often found in teas.  It contains a natural anti-inflammatory called azulene.  Chamomile is used as a skin wash in the treatment of acne.  To use, steep chamomile tea and allow cooling.  Apply to the skin with a cotton ball or washcloth.  You can also dab the mixture onto blemishes.  There are also skin care products available with chamomile.

Rose – Rose essential oil has soothing antiseptic properties.  It also smells wonderfully.  Find rosewater that is made from essential oil.  Put some into a spray bottle and spritz onto the face whenever you want.

Grapefruit Seed Extract – The seeds of grapefruit have been found to have potent micro bacterial properties.  Mix 5 drops of extract with ½ cup water to dilute and use as a face wash.

Aloe – Aloe has long been known to be a soothing anti-inflammatory with anti-bacterial properties.  Use in the gel form for best affects.  Use topically by applying directly to the blemish spots.

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