Acne is something that every one of us has probably faced during the onset of puberty. However, in the case of an unlucky few, this condition persists well into adulthood. Left untreated, severe acne can lead to disfiguring scarring; this can then lead to decreased self-esteem, social withdrawal and even depression.

What causes acne?

Acne is caused primarily due to the blockages of pores on the skin. These blockages stop the oil (sebum) from draining to the surface of the skin. Bacteria grow in these blockages, which lead to an infectious inflammation of that area; this is known as acne. Several factors contribute to the development of acne. These may include hormones, diet, evolutionary biology, vitamin deficiency, and stress, among others.

What can I do to cure my acne?

There are a number of remedies for acne available in the market. However, since the causes of acne are so myriad, not every type of treatment works for every individual. It is usually through a system of trial and error that the appropriate remedy is found, especially in the more severe cases of acne. The problem with some of the new systems of treatment is that if they don't work, they may actually exacerbate the symptoms of this infection. This is why people are looking more and more towards more natural and organic remedies for acne as a starting point.

Aromatherapy treatment for acne

Aromatherapy has had a reputation as a natural treatment for acne for many years. Of the aromatherapy oils, tea tree is probably the best-known as an acne remedy, though other oils such as lavender have been anecdotally reported effective. The advantantage with using essential oils such as tea tree for treatment is that these oils are a natural organic cosmetic. Thus, there are no side effects to this kind of treatment.

What is tea tree oil?

Tea tree oil is an essential oil obtained from the Melaleuca tree of Australia. Tea tree has anti-septic and anti-fungal properties. Before the advent of modern medicine, this oil was an essential part of the First-Aid kits of the Australian army.

How do I use it?

Tea tree oil should be applied on the skin and never taken internally. For treating acne, mix tea tree oil with aloe vera gel in the ratio of five per cent tea tree oil to ninety five percent aloe vera gel. Apply this solution to clean skin.

What are other aromatherapy treatments for acne?

Several other aromatherapy remedies have been shown to inhibit the growth of acne causing bacteria. Some of the popular essential oils used for acne treatment are Jasmine, Lavender, Myrrh, Palma Rosa, Sandalwood and Ylang Ylang.

What are natural, organic cosmetics?

A further contributor to the increase of acne and skin diseases among our generation is the increased proliferation and usage of skin care products. Many of these products contain harmful chemicals that adversely affect the skin and result in irritation of the skin and acne. Natural, organic cosmetics contain fully natural ingredients including essential aromatherapy oils such as tea tree. The use of these cosmetics helps our skin retain its balance and stay healthy. Healthy skin is better able to combat and withstand skin infections, such as acne and eczema.