Natural Skin Care for Acne-Prone Skin: A Gentle Way to Heal

What Should be Included in a Natural Skin Care Routine?

Many people believe that the number one cause of acne is poor skin care habits. In truth, breakouts are rarely just about what you put on your face. What causes acne isn't limited to clogged pores and bacteria, but also hormonal fluctuations, inflammation, diet, and even stress. 

Here's a closer look at several factors that cause acne:

1. Hormonal Fluctuations

One of the biggest culprits behind acne is hormone imbalance or fluctuations, particularly androgens like testosterone. These hormones increase oil (sebum) production, which can clog pores and result in breakouts. This is also the reason why many people experience acne during puberty, menstruation, or periods of stress when hormone levels tend to fluctuate.

2. Clogged Hair Follicles

Almost all of our skin is covered in hair follicles, which are small holes where hair grows out of. Each of these holes is connected to sebaceous glands that produce oil. Dead skin cells and excess oil can clog hair follicles, creating the perfect environment for acne-causing bacteria to grow, causing whiteheads or blackheads. However, if the clogged follicles are infected, it can cause pustules, papules, nodules, or cysts.

3. Inflammation

At its core, acne is caused by inflammation. When blocked hair follicles become inflamed or infected with bacteria, the body's immune system kicks in, which can cause the infected area to become red, swollen, and painful. 

4. Diet and Gut Health

Do you know that what you eat and your gut health are also linked to acne growth? Our gut microbiome consists of good bacteria to help digest food and maintain our immune system. Not only that, but the gut microbiome also affects skin health. Since what we eat directly influences our gut microbiome, a poor diet can disrupt the balance of good bacteria, leading to increased inflammation and breakouts. On the other hand, eating a diet rich in fiber and antioxidants almost always supports a healthy gut and clearer skin.

What are the Best Natural Ingredients for Acne?

1. Witch Hazel

Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is excellent for acne-prone skin and is a common ingredient in toners designed to combat breakouts. Thanks to its natural anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, it effectively removes excess oil from the skin’s surface. Additionally, witch hazel contains tannins, natural compounds known for their antibacterial effects that helps kill acne-causing bacteria and prevent future breakouts.

2. Clay

Clays, such as kaolin and bentonite, are powerful natural ingredients used in skincare for their ability to treat acne-prone skin. These naturally occurring minerals have been used for centuries in both traditional remedies and modern skincare formulations. Commonly found in cleansers and masks, clay helps absorb excess oil, draw out impurities, and gently exfoliate dead skin cells, making it a go-to solution for clearer, healthier skin.

Harnessing the power of both clay and witch hazel, JK7® offers you the Detox Face Mask. Formulated with Hawaiian healing clay, this mask deeply cleanses your skin by drawing out impurities and toxins. Enriched with organic witch hazel, it also delivers purifying and astringent benefits that keep your pores clean and balance oil production.

3. Ylang Ylang

Known for its fragrant aroma, ylang ylang is a beautiful tropical flower with marvelous benefits for your skin. As a natural skin care for acne, ylang ylang has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping combat acne-causing bacteria and soothing the redness, irritation, and swelling that are often caused by acne. 

4. Patchouli Oil

Patchouli oil has many uses as a natural remedy for skin concerns. It is known to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which help reduce irritation, redness, and fight acne. A 2018 study also found that patchouli oil has antifungal properties. This combination of properties not only soothes inflamed skin but also helps maintain a clearer, more balanced complexion when used appropriately in diluted formulations.

JK7®'s Foaming Face Wash combines the benefits of patchouli and ylang ylang, leaving your skin fresh, clear, and smooth, ready to properly absorb the rest of your skin care products.

5. Sandalwood

Sandalwood is a well-loved ingredient for perfumes, known for its distinctive, calming, woody fragrance. But beyond its wonderful scent, this natural compound also has multiple benefits for acne-prone skin. As an oil, sandalwood has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. These properties make it a great natural remedy for several skin conditions, from eczema, psoriasis, and even acne. What's more, sandalwood can also balance sebum production thanks to its astringent properties.

To give your skin the benefits of this ingredient, try our signature JK7® Beauty Moisturizing Mist - Toner Sandalwood. Made from the luxurious Australian and Hawaiian sandalwood, this luxurious spray refreshes your skin, giving it a healthy glow while also maintaining its health.

Morning Skin Care Routine

Cleanser: Cleanse your skin using Foaming Face Wash to remove oil and dirt that may have accumulated on your skin throughout the night.

Toner: Once your skin is dry, spray Beauty Moisturizing Mist - Toner Sandalwood and gently pat until dry to prep your skin for the next Skin Care step. You can also spray this mist throughout the day to freshen up your skin.

Serum or Essence: Gently apply the Face-Lifting Booster to your face and neck, massaging in circular motions to enhance absorption.

Moisturizer: Finally, apply our Day Face Lotion all over your face and neck to lock in moisture. 

Night Skin Care Routine

Cleanser: Cleanse your skin with the Foaming Face Wash to remove makeup, excess oil, and impurities built up during the day.

Toner: Mist your face with Beauty Moisturizing Mist - Toner Sandalwood and gently pat it in to enhance absorption. This helps prep your skin for the treatments that follow in your evening routine.

Serum or Essence: Use our Secret Age-Defying Gel on your face and neck and massage it in light, circular strokes. 

Eye Cream: To soothe and nourish the delicate eye area, apply a small amount of our Eye Gel using your fingertips, gently patting it in until fully absorbed.

Moisturizer: For the ultimate nighttime moisturization, apply our Rejuvenating Serum Lotion. Lightly massage it into your face, neck, and areas around your eyes and lips.

Extra step - Facial Mask: Use our Detox Face Mask 2-3 times a week to draw out impurities and deeply cleanse pores.