Tea Tree Oil
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
Also known as: TTO · Melaleuca Oil
Acne-fightingSoothing
“A potent antimicrobial essential oil clinically proven for acne at the right concentration.”
What it does
Tea tree oil is an essential oil steam-distilled from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, native to Australia. Its primary active component, terpinen-4-ol, has proven antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory activity. Clinical trials show 5% tea tree oil gel is comparable to 5% benzoyl peroxide for acne with fewer side effects, though it acts more slowly.
Benefits
- Kills Cutibacterium acnes and other skin-surface bacteria
- Anti-inflammatory — reduces the redness and swelling of active breakouts
- Effective for mild to moderate acne with regular use
- Also effective against fungal conditions like tinea versicolor
How to layer
☀️ Morning routine
Cleanser
Toner
Serum
Moisturiser
SPF
🌙 Evening routine
Cleanser
Toner
Serum
Moisturiser
Face Oil
After toning, before moisturiser
Good for
Oily skinAcne-prone skinCombination skin
Works well with
Heads up
- ⚠Must be diluted — undiluted essential oil causes skin irritation, burns, and sensitisation
- ⚠Can cause allergic contact dermatitis in some individuals
- ⚠Do not ingest — toxic when consumed
How to use
Use in formulations at 5% concentration. Never apply undiluted essential oil directly to skin. Patch test first, as sensitisation is possible.
Typical concentration: 5% in formulations