Introduction to Essential Oils and Essential Oil Processing

In the treatment of acne and rosacea, several essential oils may play a therapeutic role via both antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory pathways. The particular microbial target in acne vulgaris appears to be the Cutibacterium acnes bacterium. Essential oils investigated for this review include tea tree oil, Oregon grape root oil, pomegranate seed oil, rosemary oil, witch hazel, rose oil, rosehip oil, orange/citrus oil, Korean fir oil, frankincense oil, chamomile oil, clary sage oil, lavender oil, ylang-ylang oil, juniper berry oil, and clove basil oil. Many of these essential oils need a carrier oil to avoid evaporation, and carrier oils reviewed here include olive oil, jojoba, coconut, sesame seed, grape seed, sweet almond, and sunflower seed oil. Of those listed, tea tree oil is the most common and well-known essential oil with evidence available in both acne and rosacea treatments.