More and more often, customers are seeking effective alternatives to the harsh chemical treatments used to combat acne. The word “botanicals” is popping up more and more often in advertisements for acne treatments. A botanical is basically a plant- a plant that has been discovered to have useful properties when used in products and treatments. The usefulness of many plants in treatments is not news to the medical community. After all, many prescription medications are actually derived from plants. Aloe Vera and Lavender are plants that many use daily in their natural acne treatment routines.
Aloe Vera is a plant that has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes. The plant itself can be broken open and the juice applied directly to the skin. Used this way, Aloe Vera is useful in treating cuts, scrapes and burns. It has been used as a home remedy for many years. There are also many products that use Aloe Vera as an ingredient. Aloe Vera is available is pure concentrations in the form of gel or juice. Some people drink Aloe Vera juice because they believe that is can prevent certain diseases. It is added as an ingredient to facial cleansers, scrubs, soaps, masks, toners, moisturizers, bath beads, shower gels, body lotions, sunblock, and can even be purchased in pill form. When using an Aloe Vera product, always follow the directions on the packaging.
Lavender is a purple flower containing sweet smelling oil. Lavender essential oil is relatively inexpensive compared to many other essential oils, and is used in many products. One of the best-known uses of lavender is in aromatherapy, as Lavender is a very effective natural calming agent. Just smelling the oil can soothe stress after a trying day and it can help you fall asleep. It also has a similar calming effect on the skin, which makes it very useful in treating acne. Lavender essential oil, like most essential oils, is too strong to be applied directly to the skin and should be diluted with another oil such as grapeseed or almond oil before application. Lavender is used as an ingredient in skin care and acne control products. These products are generally available at health foods stores and online, although more general grocery stores are starting to carry these natural products in their health and beauty departments.
As with any other natural acne treatment, Aloe Vera and Lavender may not be appropriate for everyone. Since they are plants, some people may be allergic to them. When using a new product containing Aloe Vera or Lavender, you may want to perform a patch test on the inside of your elbow before applying the product to your face. It is better to find out about a sensitivity by way of an itchy blotch on your elbow than to find out by way of an itchy blotchy face. If you use a new product and experience any lasting redness, burning or itching, discontinue use of the product and see your healthcare professional if needed.
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