Tea tree oil Explained
Melaleuca
Tea tree oil, always diluted in a product, can reduce acne spots, more slowly than benzoyl peroxide but often with less dryness; patch-test, it can irritate.
Label names (INCI): Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
Written by the Oliareen editorial teamDermatologist review: pendingHow we write
What it does
Terpinen-4-ol kills acne bacteria and reduces inflammation.
Often discussed for
This doesn't mean everyone with these needs it.
Concerns
Skin types
How to approach it
If you're new to it
Start one new product at a time and patch test first: a little on the side of the jaw for a few days. Keep the rest of the routine simple.
General education, not a diagnosis or treatment plan.
Works well with
Examples of common pairings, not guaranteed combinations.
Use carefully with
Stacking several actives raises the risk of irritation. If you're on any prescribed medicine, ask your doctor before adding an active.
- Other essential oils
- Retinoids
- AHA
- BHA (salicylic acid)
- Contact allergen (~1-3%), worse when oxidised; patch-test
- Can irritate; keep from eyes
- Toxic if swallowed
- Not for eczema/sensitive skin
Possible reactions
Stop if burning doesn't settle, or if you get a red rash, itching, swelling or peeling. Swelling of the face, lips or eyes, or trouble breathing, needs urgent medical care.
When to see a doctorEvidence and timing
- Evidence
- Evidence: limited
- Time to see a change (weeks)
- 4-12
Bassett 1990 (PubMed 2145499): BPO reportedly better on inflamed lesions, tea tree slower but better tolerated - abstract to be re-read [verify].
Evidence comes from studies of specific formulas and strengths. Your product may behave differently.
Read next
Sources
- Bassett IB et al. Med J Aust 1990;153:455-8
- Enshaieh S et al. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol 2007 (placebo-controlled 5% gel)
- BfR opinion on undiluted tea tree oil