Acne Solutions

Gareth Gates, from ‘Dancing On Ice’, Lesley Vainikolo, the English rugby player, Britney Spears and Victoria Beckham aka Posh Spice have all shown clear signs of stress related acne in press pictures this week. Despite the best attentions of the make up artists not to mention the complexion clearing magic of photoshop, it is clear that stress has a significant influence on the condition of the skin.

My professional advice to these celebrities and indeed the increasing number of sixth formers and university students starting to worry about exams and find it reflecting on their skin, is get back to basic's. My first tip is to wash the face thoroughly under the showerhead with bare hands or a spotlessly clean flannel, do not use soap. Then apply a really fresh premium quality tea tree essential oil directly onto the spots, morning and night, and also add a couple of drops to a bath. For a four-week period avoid all use of chemical cleansers and soaps on the face, as well as strong chemical styling products on the sections of hair closest to the face.

To counteract the stress, I recommend geranium (great female affinity) and bergamot (for boys) in the bath. Also try some tea tree either on a burner or dripped on ribbons attached to the bars of a domestic fan. If a moisturiser is still used make sure if contains a high level of evening primrose which is well proven to calm acne prone skin both male and female.

Another important but simple step is to destroy and replace any cosmetics or skin care products that you have had open longer than six months as they will have started to oxidise (go off) and may well be colonised with bacteria or fungus and in this state may aggravate or infect stressed skin.

If you would like any further advice about problem skin from a qualified aromatherapist please email me at info@potions.co.uk.

Julie