Acne is pimples, blackheads, or other blemishes that are the result of clogged pores that become infected and inflamed. When your skin produces too much sebum or oil, it can clog the hair follicles in the skin, where it captures dead skin cells that are meant to slough off. This clogged follicle then becomes infected from bacteria naturally found on your skin, and a blemish forms. These spots can become inflamed as well, resulting in red, angry looking breakouts that becoming filled with pus.

Acne can occur at any time in your life and is worse for people whose skin is naturally oily. Today, over 50 million people in the US contend with acne each year, and while it may seem like a minor problem, chronic acne can result in facial scarring, depression, anxiety, and lowered self-esteem.

Changes in hormone levels are a significant trigger for acne flareups, which is why it is more common in adolescents as well as during menopause for women. The more androgen you have in your system, the more likely you are to have oily skin and thus acne. Other causes of acne include improper facial washing, stress, certain medications, and using cosmetics or facial care products that clog your pores.

Acne can appear in many ways on your skin, including simple pimples, cystic acne, whiteheads, or blackheads. Cystic acne often develops under the skin and creates dark, raised places on the surface that take a long time to heal. When acne is infected or inflamed or when you scratch or pick at these blemishes, you can end up leaving scars that last a lifetime.

Understanding Oregano Oil

Oil of oregano comes from a wild species that is similar to the herb commonly used in cooking. This version, though, has many valuable medicinal properties that make it unique and perfect for treating a wide range of illnesses and conditions. Once the leaves of the Origanum vulgare plant are distilled into an essential oil, their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties are enhanced, providing you with the perfect remedy for your acne.

Oregano oil has been used for generations as a medicinal herb to treat several types of infections. That is because it is effective at combating not only viruses but also bacteria, yeasts, and parasites. Because acne results from clogged and infected pores and follicles, oregano oil is an excellent choice for destroying the microbes that result in blemishes.

Not only can oregano oil kill infection, but it also reduces inflammation, which can help to calm skin eruptions and heal your pimples more quickly. Without inflammation, you will have less redness and smaller raised areas on your skin.

Because oregano essential oil also contains antioxidants and flavonoids, it starts working immediately to heal your skin and restore it to its best status. It can help reduce scarring and eliminate redness and dark patches left over after acne heals, as well.

Using Oregano Oil to Treat Acne

Oregano oil is very potent and can burn your skin if you do not use it properly. You should always perform a patch test on your arm or leg before using this remedy on your face, as you may be allergic or sensitive to the compounds found in this oil.

Never put undiluted oregano oil on your skin. Always mix it with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, which is also antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. Oregano oil is sometimes called a “hot” oil because its potent compounds can burn your skin if not diluted thoroughly.

To use oregano oil to treat your acne, you can opt for one of many options. These include:

1. Dilute several drops of oregano oil with a carrier oil, then apply it to acne blemishes with a cotton swab. If you have oily skin, this may not be the best option for you, as it is adding more oil to your skin, which could result in more acne. A carrier oil that does not clog pores is sweet almond oil, which you could use to dilute oregano oil without fear of making your problem worse.
2. Instead of diluting oregano oil with more oil, you can dilute it instead with water. Place several drops of the essential oil in a cup of water, then apply with a cotton swab or ball to acne prone areas. This process may result in a slight burning sensation. This is normal, but if it becomes uncomfortable, discontinue use.
3. You can take oregano oil orally, as well. Place two drops under your tongue or mixing with a glass of water will help to kill the bacteria that causes acne from the inside. Not only can this help your skin, but it also has benefits for your digestive system, as well.
4. You can also purchase oregano oil in capsule form, which you can then take daily to help treat and prevent your acne.

Final Thoughts

You should not use oregano oil on your skin if you are allergic or develop a sensitivity to this product. If you are allergic to basil, marjoram, sage, or mint, you may also be allergic to oregano and should avoid this remedy. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not use oregano oil. Always use this oil with caution when applying to skin, as it can burn or cause discomfort if not diluted.

Treating acne with oregano oil is a natural, inexpensive solution that is highly effective for treating this embarrassing and sometimes painful skin condition. Appropriately used, oregano oil can be your skin’s new best friend in the fight against blemishes.