Spot treat with other essential oils

Along with tea tree oil, many other essential oils have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that might hasten the healing of acne. According to one scientific research, the acne-causing bacteria S. epidermidis and P. acnes are combated by the essential oils of cinnamon, rose, lavender, and clove.

Lemongrass and rosemary have also been proved to prevent P. acnes. One research compared the ability of clove-basil oil, 10% benzoyl peroxide, and a placebo to treat acne. Benzoyl peroxide was shown to be less effective and slower in clearing up pimples than the 2% and 5% clove-basil oils. Another research found that a gel combining acetic acid, orange, and sweet basil essential oils increased the rate at which pimples healed by 75%. These essential oils are very concentrated and might irritate the skin if used directly, just as tea tree oil. All essential oils should be diluted with a carrier oil before use, a test patch should be done before daily usage, and use should be stopped if irritation arises.