What is tea tree essential oil used for in cosmetics?

Tea tree essential oil (melaleuca alternifolia), also called tea tree, is known to be effective in treating inflammatory acne lesions. It is mainly composed of a terpineol, terpinen-4, which acts as a powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. In particular, a study confirmed the superiority of this essential oil over a placebo in terms of the number of lesions and the severity of acne.¹. A study performed with a gel composed of 5% tea tree essential oil showed similar results². Another study even came to the conclusion that a product dosed at 5% of this essential oil is as effective as a product dosed at 5% of benzoyl peroxide.³, known to treat inflammatory acne. However, the results take longer to be seen but the side effects are fewer.

How to use tea tree essential oil to treat acne?

The essential oil of tea tree is very well tolerated by the skin, although it can be slightly drying. It is possible to apply it pure on the lesions using a cotton swab, once a day, or even less depending on the sensitivity of the skin. If, after application, the pimples burn and become excessively red, the skin should be rinsed and the essential oil diluted.

It can be diluted in a moisturizer or in a non-comedogenic vegetable oil up to 5% (i.e. 15 drops of essential oil per 10 mL bottle), then applied to the face morning and evening.

Against acne, it goes well with the essential oil of true lavender (lavandula angustifolia). These two essential oils can be used synergistically for skin care.

S Cao H, Yang G, Wang Y, et al., Complementary therapies for acne vulgaris, Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2015 Enshaieh S, Jooya A, Siadat AH, et al., The efficacy of 5% topical tea tree oil gel in mild to moderate acne vulgaris: a randomized, double-blind placebo controlled study, Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol, 2007 Bassett IB, Pannowitz DL, Barnetson RS, A comparative study of tea-tree oil versus benzoylperoxide in the treatment of acne, Med J Aust, 1990