Herbs For Acne: Benefits And How To Use Them?

So what makes herbal remedies effective to manage acne in some cases? It is the inherent botanical properties present in them that make them good acne-fighting agents. Some are antibacterial in nature, meaning they can inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria on your skin. The anti-inflammatory properties that some herbs have to boost your skin's capacity to manage external damage and thus avoid sensitivity issues. Plus, herbs have fewer side effects when used the right way than potent ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or retinoids. When sourced organically, these natural remedies can really make a difference to your anti-acne skincare routine. Below is a list of some of the most popular herbs for acne, and the best way to use them...

Sourced from the leaves of the Australian tree with the same name, the tea tree has long been used as a versatile ingredient in beauty products. Its medicinal properties include both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. The herb is capable of inhibiting the growth of acne-causing microorganisms on the skin while being gentle on the skin. This is why it has shown results in managing inflammatory acne-like pimples and other pore issues like blackheads and whiteheads. It is also known to tighten your pores and help in sebum control in the skin.

The best way to use lavender for acne is in its essential oil form.

• Mix 1-2 drops of lavender oil with a carrier oil and use it as a spot treatment.
• You can also add the drops to your facial steamer and give yourself a skin-clearing facial once a week.

An Ayurvedic staple, neem is a herb that is widely known for its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and anti-ageing benefits. When dealing with acne, neem can help regulate your skin's natural oil production. This helps in reducing acne and post-inflammatory inflammation (PIH). Because of its healing properties, neem is an excellent pick for managing acne and limiting the amount of scarring after. Rich in vitamin C, neem can help fade already existing acne scars and give your skin an overall brighter look.

The best way to use lavender for acne is in its essential oil form.

• Mix 1-2 drops of lavender oil with a carrier oil and use it as a spot treatment.
• You can also add the drops to your facial steamer and give yourself a skin-clearing facial once a week.

Witch hazel, also known as nature's astringent, is getting quite popular for acne treatments. The herb is rich in tannins, which can be used to clear excess oil from your skin. The anti-inflammatory properties of witch hazel also contribute to reducing inflamed breakouts and thus avoid bruising of the skin. Adding a DIY witch hazel toner to your routine can also be a good alternative for regular alcohol-based toners that can dry out your skin.

The best way to use lavender for acne is in its essential oil form.

• Mix 1-2 drops of lavender oil with a carrier oil and use it as a spot treatment.
• You can also add the drops to your facial steamer and give yourself a skin-clearing facial once a week.

Manjistha, popularly known as the Indian Madder, is a popular Ayurvedic medicinal herb. The natural blood purifier is known to inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria and help keep the pores unclogged on your skin. It is also highly antioxidant in nature and when applied topically, can help calm skin inflammation, redness, rashes and other effects acne can have on your skin.

The best way to use lavender for acne is in its essential oil form.

• Mix 1-2 drops of lavender oil with a carrier oil and use it as a spot treatment.
• You can also add the drops to your facial steamer and give yourself a skin-clearing facial once a week.

A popular calming ingredient used in skincare, lavender also has the ability to inhibit bacterial growth. Lavender-infused toners have shown good results in keeping the skin's pores healthy, calming irritated skin, and soothing stressed oil glands to help regulate sebum production. It is also known to help satiate angry-looking breakouts, reduce the pain around it, and keep it from developing further.

The best way to use lavender for acne is in its essential oil form.

• Mix 1-2 drops of lavender oil with a carrier oil and use it as a spot treatment.
• You can also add the drops to your facial steamer and give yourself a skin-clearing facial once a week.

**A. **Some of the precautions to keep in mind while using herbs for acne are -

• Do a patch test 48 hours prior to rule out sensitivity, allergic reactions and skin irritations to certain ingredients. If you notice swelling, itching, or burning, or redness, do not apply on your face.
• If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or menopausal, consult a dermatologist before using herbs to manage your acne.
• Do not ingest herbs in order to manage acne internally, some can be toxic and poisonous in nature. Also, keep it away from your mouth region in order to avoid mistakenly ingesting it.

**A. **Natural remedies take longer to work as compared to prescribed medications (topical and oral) like isotretinoin and antibiotics. The results also depend on the kind of acne you are suffering from. For instance, pimples caused due to bacterial infections can be healed by using tea tree as a spot treatment. On the other hand, hormonal and cystic acne may show little to no results even after using natural remedies for a long time.