Grapefruit oil is one of the more "modern" essential oils that is used in the practice of aromatherapy. It is a citrus oil that has a number of benefits. Grapefruit oil possesses properties that are beneficial in the treatment of acne. It can be used in a couple of ways. Consult a qualified health care professional before using grapefruit oil for the treatment of acne.
Acne
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, acne is an inflammatory skin problem. An over-production of sebum results in the blockage and inflammation of pores in the skin. Bacteria and the non shedding of dead skin cells also contribute to acne. Acne results in inflamed, reddened skin that is painful and sore to touch. It leaves marks, bumps and, sometimes, scars on the skin.
Grapefruit Oil
According to Patricia Davis, in "Aromatherapy: An A-Z," grapefruit, Citrus paradisi, is a hybrid of Citrus maxima and Citrus sinensis. Julia Lawless writes, in "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils," that grapefruit oil is yellow or green in color and it has a sweet, citrus aroma. The grapefruit tree is native to Asia and the West Indies. It is cultivated for its oil in Florida, California and Brazil.
Benefits
Lawless writes that grapefruit oil is antiseptic, bactericidal, astringent and a tonic. Davis recommends the use of grapefruit oil for the treatment of acne and oily skin because of these benefits. Grapefruit oil is chemically made up of the principal ingredient of limonene but also contains citral, geraniol and other minor constituents. It does not contain some of the same furocoumarins that are present in other citrus oils and which cause sensitivity to sunlight.
How to Use
Valerie Ann Worwood recommends, in "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy," that you use grapefruit oil in a tonic to reduce skin oiliness and to help to open blocked pores. She advises adding grapefruit oil to witch hazel, cider vinegar, orange flower water, juniper and lime oil to make an astringent for the skin. Davis also recommends adding grapefruit oil to lotions to use on the skin.
Cautions
In general, grapefruit oil is non-toxic, non-sensitizing and non-irritating to the skin. Unlike other citrus oils, it does not cause photo sensitization in sunlight. However, it does not have a long shelf life and you should discard the oil once it begins to oxidize. Always dilute grapefruit oil in a carrier oil or lotion before applying it to the skin. Test a small patch of the skin for any adverse reaction before you apply the oil to the treatment area. Consult a health professional before using grapefruit oil for the treatment of acne.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Acne
- "Aromatherapy: An A-Z;" Patricia Davis; 1999
- "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils;" Julia Lawless; 1995
- "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy;" Valerie Ann Worwood; 1991
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