Tea Tree Oil Benefits For Acne Prone & Oily Skin
Tea tree oil is one of my most favourite ingredients because it worked for me when nothing else was working. It is the first thing that started to heal my skin.
I had severe acne. my face was covered with acne and blackheads. Nothing worked on my skin, no matter what I tried. I went to several dermatologists. My acne would become less but not heal completely.
My skin is oily and acne prone to this day. But now I know how to take care of my skin and what ingredients work for me.
What Is Tea Tree Oil Made Of?
This oil is a naturally derived essential oil that is extracted from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree, which is native to Australia. The oil is produced through steam distillation of the tree’s leaves and has been used for medicinal purposes by the indigenous people of Australia for centuries.
This oil has since become popular as a natural remedy for a variety of skin and health conditions, due to its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.
What Is The Scientific Proof That Tea Tree Oil Heals Acne?
There have been several studies conducted to evaluate the efficacy of tea tree oil in reducing acne. Some of these studies have found that this oil can be an effective treatment for mild to moderate acne.
A study was published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology in 2014. They compared the efficacy of a 5% tea tree oil gel with a 5% benzoyl peroxide gel in treating mild to moderate acne.
The results showed that the tea tree oil gel was as effective as benzoyl peroxide (the go-to treatment for acne) in reducing acne. But, also had a lower number of side effects such as skin irritation and dryness.
Another study was published in the International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents in 2011. They found that a 5% tea tree oil solution was effective in reducing the number of Propionibacterium acnes. Propionibacterium is a type of bacteria that is involved in the development of acne.
Overall, there is sufficient scientific evidence which supports that the use of tea tree oil is an effective treatment for acne.
Benefits Of Tea Tree Oil For Acne Prone & Oily Skin
If you are not using anything yet to treat oily skin or acne, then start with tea tree oil. Even if you do not use any other ingredient or medication. Here are some benefits of this oil for acne-prone and oily skin:
1- Controls Oil Production:
Tea tree oil has astringent properties that help to control excess oil production, which can reduce the appearance of oily skin. It reduces excess sebum production and gives your skin a fresh and clean feeling.
2- Overnight Pimple Shrinker:
Suppose you have an upcoming event. Just the night before the event you get a pimple. Fear no more. Tea tree oil will save the day (for most people honestly). Wash your face. Take just a drop of tea tree oil in your palm. Take some on your finger and directly apply it to the pimple. Then go to bed.
You will see a visibly small pimple in the morning. For some people, the pimple can even go away in the morning.
3- Acne and Blackhead Treatment:
Tea tree oil is a complete acne treatment on its own. It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it an effective treatment for acne and other skin problems like blackheads and whiteheads. It is an amazing spot treatment for acne as well.
4- Unclogs Pores:
Tea tree oil has antiseptic properties that can help to unclog pores and reduce the risk of acne breakouts. Regular use of this oil can also solve the problem of larger pores. Because it cleans the dirt that your pores hold onto.
Read more about Large Pores here: Large Pores? Here Are 5 Best Solutions You Need To Know
5- Reduces Inflammation:
This oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to calm down irritated skin and reduce redness and swelling associated with acne. It also gives your skin a calm and cooling sensation which helps to soothe the irritation.
Furthermore, tea tree oil can help to reduce itching, swelling, and redness associated with insect bites and stings.
6- Fights Bacteria:
This oil has antimicrobial properties that can help to kill the bacteria that cause acne, which helps to reduce the number of breakouts and promote healthy skin.
7- Boosts Skin Health:
Tea tree oil has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to protect the skin from free radical damage and promote a healthy, youthful appearance.
All these benefits can only be gained when you know how to use this oil properly…
How To Use Tea Tree Oil Properly?
It is important to use this oil correctly in order to reap the full benefits from it. Tea tree oil is only used for topical application. It is not supposed to be taken orally as it is can act as a poison.
1- Use Natural Tea Tree Oil:
First of all, use 100% natural tea tree oil. Always buy tea tree oil from a known brand. There are a bunch of people selling fake tea tree oil. Always do a patch test before using a new ingredient on your face.
2- Dilute Tea Tree Oil:
Always dilute tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is very strong to be applied on its own. It is important to note that tea tree oil should be diluted with a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil or coconut oil, before applying it to the skin, as undiluted tea tree oil can cause skin irritation.
Even after diluting, it is better to mix tea tree oil in your toner or your moisturizer if you want to apply it all over your face.
What I Use:
The one I use often is from The Body Shop. This one is already diluted so even if you put it directly on your skin as a spot treatment it will be fine. But if you have extremely sensitive skin then it is better to mix it with your toner or moisturizer. Until you build a tolerance to it.
Are There Any Side Effects Of Using Tea Tree Oil?
Yes, Tea tree oil can have side effects if:
- You are not using 100% natural tea tree oil.
- If you are not diluting the oil in the right quantity.
- If your skin is very sensitive.
- If your skin is broken.
The side effects include:
1- Skin Irritation:
Sometimes overuse of tea tree oil can cause skin irritation. Like redness, itchiness and flaky skin.
2- Allergic Reaction:
Tea tree oil is not for suitable every skin type. Some people might be allergic to it. Do a patch test to check whether this oil is for you or not.
How to do a Patch Test:
- Clean your skin.
- Apply a small amount of the tea tree oil mixture to a small sensitive area of your skin. Like the inside of your wrist or behind your ear.
- Wait for 24-48 hours to check if you get an allergic reaction.
If you experience any side effects or reactions, stop using the tea tree oil and consult with a healthcare professional.
To Conclude:
- Tea tree oil works wonderfully in treating acne for most people.
- Make sure to do a patch test as this ingredient is very strong.
- Tea tree oil reduces oil production and clears out pores. This helps in keeping our skin healthy and fresh.
