4 Benefits and Uses of Tea Tree Oil for Your Skin

Tea tree oil, also known as ti tree oil or melaleuca oil, is an essential oil obtained from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, a species of tree or tall shrub in the myrtle family, endemic to Australia. Tea tree has been used as an alternative medical treatment by indigenous peoples of Australia for decades.

The commercial tea tree oil industry originated in the 1920s and began to thrive in the 1970s and 1980s. Due to its strong antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, tea tree oil is useful for treating acne, dandruff, herpes, insect bites, psoriasis, eczema, and bacterial or fungal infections of the skin. It is also widely used as an ingredient in homemade and commercial skincare products. What are the main benefits of tea tree oil for your skin?

Treating Acne

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles get clogged with sebum (oil from the skin) and hair follicles. It is characterized by oily skin, pimples, blackheads and/or whiteheads. Tea tree oil is one of the many different treatments used to combat acne. Thanks to its strong antibacterial and anti-fungal effect, it prevents inflammation, helps to unclog pores, prevents scarring, and helps to restore the skin’s natural hydro-lipid balance. Be careful not to overuse the oil because it can dry out your skin. To be on the safe side, dilute tea tree oil with a non-comedogenic carrier oil.

Treating Eczema and Psoriasis

Eczema (dermatitis) and psoriasis are inflammatory skin diseases characterized by itchiness, red and scaly skin, and a rash. Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory properties so it can help in relieving different types of skin inflammation. To reduce the appearance of psoriasis or dermatitis, mix five drops of tea tree oil with a teaspoon of coconut oil (or any other carrier oil of your choice) and apply the mixture to the affected area.

Speeding Up Skin Healing

Tea tree oil can be used to reduce inflammation and speed up the healing of minor skin injuries, such as razor nicks and cuts, insect bites, scrapes, sores, abrasions, etc. To disinfect a cut or scrape, clean the cut thoroughly with water and soap or hydrogen peroxide. Afterward, dilute 1–3 drops of tea tree oil in 1 teaspoon of coconut oil, jojoba oil, or avocado oil. Apply a small amount of this improvised salve to the injury and cover with a clean bandage. Reapply once or twice a day until the skin heals.

Removing Makeup

You can use tea tree oil to make a DIY natural makeup remover that works especially great for dry and sensitive skin. Mix ¼ cup of canola oil or extra virgin olive oil with 10 drops of tea tree oil in a sterilized Mason jar with a lid. Shake well until blended and store in a cool, dark place. To remove your makeup, pore some oil on a cotton pad or ball and gently wipe your skin. Rinse well with warm water and apply a toner.

Bonus: Tea Tree Oil Precautions

Tea tree oil is toxic when taken internally, so you should not use it in or around your mouth. It is generally safe to use topically, but if you have sensitive skin and/or need to apply the oil to a large area, it is possible that you might experience an adverse reaction. To be safe, look for 100% natural, therapeutic grade and organic tea tree oil, dilute it with a carrier oil, and keep the oil away from your eyes and mucous membranes. If you’ve never used tea tree oil before, do a small skin patch test to make sure there’s no negative reaction.