Tea Tree
This Australian native has over 100 compounds and is potently antiseptic. With activity against bacteria, viruses and fungi, tea tree is versatile and highly suitable for acne care: 5% tea tree gel has shown equal efficacy to 5% benzoyl peroxide gel.
Eucalyptus
Another Australian native, now grown worldwide with up to 900 different species. Highly medicinal with antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action, eucalyptus can reduce the size of enlarged sebaceous glands involved in acne. A 2% eucalyptus cream has outperformed a 5% benzoyl peroxide cream.
Myrtle
A very aromatic shrub found in Mediterranean regions, Myrtle has multiple bioactive compounds and is broadly antimicrobial with effect against c. Acnes bacteria. A topical Myrtle product showed equal efficacy to a topical antibiotic used for acne.
Aloe Vera
Super-hero succulent with complex constituents including zinc, Aloe is anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, hydrating and soothing, an ideal combination for acne care.
Manuka Honey & Oil
The most bioactive Manuka Honey comes from New Zealand and contains the unique leptosperin along with amino acids, vitamins and minerals, DHA, hydrogen peroxide, plus methylglyoxal which all add up to a proven medicinal honey with low pH, ideal for acne.
In addition there is also Manuka oil, mild and gentle on skin but tough on microbes including c. Acnes. Think of it as a sort of cross between Tea Tree oil and Manuka Honey in terms of skin effect.
Witch Hazel
Leaves, bark and twigs from this flowering shrub or tree are used to make witch hazel which is an FDA approved topical medicine. As an astringent it can remove oil and sebum from skin while cleaning out and shrinking the pores. Acts to disinfect plus reduce inflammation.
Rosewater
Distillation of essential oils from rose petals, rosewater is fragrant, soothing, hydrating, and mildly astringent on the skin without drying. Perfect in combination with witch hazel for redness and acne control.
