7 Natural Ingredients That Help Combat Acne—Without the Harsh Chemicals

Acne is one of the most common skin concerns affecting people of all ages. Whether it’s the occasional breakout or persistent blemishes, navigating the endless skincare options can be overwhelming—especially when you're trying to avoid harsh chemicals or irritating formulas.

At withSimplicity, we believe in the power of plant-based ingredients to support skin naturally, without compromising effectiveness. The good news? There are several natural ingredients backed by both tradition and science that can help you manage acne while keeping your skin calm, nourished, and balanced.

Let’s explore seven natural (and proven) ingredients that are gentle on skin but tough on breakouts.

Why Natural Ingredients Work for Acne

Many traditional acne treatments use aggressive ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or synthetic acids that can strip the skin, leading to dryness, increased sensitivity, or even rebound breakouts. Natural ingredients work with your skin instead of against it. They deliver vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and soothing compounds that support the skin’s healing process while addressing the root causes of acne—without the side effects.

1. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a time-tested essential oil celebrated for its powerful acne-fighting properties. It helps:

• Kill acne-causing bacteria on the skin

• Calm inflammation and redness

• Dry out blemishes gently without damaging the skin barrier

At withSimplicity, you’ll find tea tree oil in our Foaming Acne Wash and Blemish Drops—two formulas that cleanse, treat, and support clearer skin over time.

2. Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is a natural astringent that helps balance oily skin and reduce pore size. It works to:

• Tighten and tone the skin

• Control excess oil

• Calm redness and irritation

You’ll find witch hazel in our Acne Prone Toner, a refreshing formula that preps your skin post-cleanse and supports an even, matte complexion.

How to use:

• After cleansing, apply to a cotton pad

• Gently sweep over the face, especially on oily or breakout-prone areas

• Use daily or as needed

3. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

We know this ingredient isn't exactly "natural", but it's very safe to use and a key player in skincare for acne-prone skin. Niacinamide is a multitasking skincare ingredient loved for its calming and brightening abilities. For acne-prone skin, it helps:

• Minimize the look of enlarged pores

• Regulate oil production

• Reduce redness and blotchiness

• Strengthen the skin’s natural barrier

• Fade dark spots and post-acne marks

It’s gentle, non-irritating, and highly effective—especially for those dealing with both acne and sensitivity.

4. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is best known for its ability to calm and soothe the skin. For acne, it delivers:

• Lightweight hydration that won’t clog pores

• Anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness

• Healing support for damaged or inflamed skin

Our Face Jelly uses aloe vera to deliver a cool, calming dose of hydration that feels refreshing and restorative.

5. Green Tea Extract

Green tea is a potent antioxidant that’s beneficial both when consumed and applied topically. It’s especially effective for acne-prone skin because it:

• Contains EGCG, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound

• Reduces sebum (oil) production

• Fights environmental stressors and oxidative damage

It’s a gentle but effective way to rebalance oily skin and soothe inflammation.

6. Lavender Oil

Lavender oil does more than just smell relaxing—it’s also incredibly useful for calming acne-prone skin. It offers:

• Antimicrobial properties to fight acne-causing bacteria

• Anti-inflammatory benefits to reduce swelling and redness

• Calming effects that may help lower stress-related breakouts

You’ll find lavender in our Acne Face Wash and Acne Prone Toner, designed to purify and calm sensitive, breakout-prone skin.

Suggested routine:

• Start with the Acne Face Wash to gently remove buildup and impurities

• Follow with the Acne Prone Toner to refresh and tone the skin

7. Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil mimics the skin’s natural sebum, which helps it regulate oil production without clogging pores. It helps:

• Dissolve excess sebum that can clog pores

• Restore moisture without heaviness

• Support skin elasticity and resilience

You’ll find jojoba oil in our, and Hydra Glow Serum—a lightweight oil-based serum that's great for acne-prone skin.

How to use:

• Apply the Acne Lotion as your daily moisturizer for blemish-prone areas

• Use the Cream Exfoliator 2–3 times per week to remove dead skin cells

• Finish with Hydra Glow Serum to lock in hydration and boost your glow

A Holistic, Skin-Nurturing Approach to Acne-Prone Skin

There’s no one-size-fits-all cure for acne, but when you take a consistent, gentle approach with ingredients your skin recognizes and loves, real progress happens. At withSimplicity, every formula is designed with purpose—free from fillers, harsh synthetics, and anything your skin doesn’t need. Whether you’re building your first acne-friendly routine or simplifying what you already use, our goal is to help you feel confident in your skin—naturally.