Tea Tree's Potential For Alleviating Skin Conditions

Introduction

Tea tree oil, sometimes called Melaleuca oil, is relatively pale, with an almost water-like viscosity and a very pungent minty smell. It’s acquired through steam distillation of the tea tree leaves, a tree native to Australia, and its oil, which has been used for almost a century for its numerous health benefits. As alternative herbal medicine and clean skincare have been on the rise, the popularity of tea tree oil as a skincare ingredient has increased dramatically. 

Tea tree oil is available in its pure form and as an ingredient in many products; it can be incorporated into a daily skincare routine and has proven effective in treating many medical conditions, such as acne, dandruff or athlete’s foot. However, it’s important to note that tea tree oil should only be applied topically and not ingested. The Indigenous Australians recognise tea tree oil for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, and modern science confirmed this by proving that tea tree oil contains many bioactive compounds, such as terpinene-4-ol and cineole, that give the oil its incredible ability to alleviate several dermatological conditions from acne to psoriasis. This quick guide will explain everything you need to know about tea tree oil for skin.

What gives tea tree oil its superpowers?

After applying different analytical methods, scientists discovered that tea tree oil contained a complex mixture of bioactive chemicals contributing to its healing properties. Most of them belonged to the terpenes hydrocarbons, the most important ones being:

• Terpinene-4-ol: a major component in tea tree oil and can make up to 30% of the oil’s composition. It is also the main contributor to the oil’s antimicrobial effects
• γ-Terpinene: this makes up 10-29% of the composition. It has anti-inflammatory properties, and it also contributes to the oil’s signature scent
• 1,8-Cineole: also known as Eucalyptol, a compound found in most essential oils. It contributes to their scent; it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, it’s the main factor in sensitivity reactions

The abundance of compounds led The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to set a standard stating that 30-40% Terpinen-4-ol must be present to ensure the quality of the oil and approve it to be commercialised. Tea tree oil’s chemical profile contains up to 100 different compounds, such as α-terpinene, terpinolene and many more, working synergistically to give the oil its unique healing properties.^1,3

How can tea tree oil help alleviate skin conditions?

Scientists have found that tea tree oil has great permeability through the skin. When applied topically, it can reach the bloodstream within 30 minutes, which makes it the ideal candidate for treating skin conditions. In a study made to review the response of various skin conditions when tea tree oil is applied, very promising results were concluded:

• Acne: For specifically acne vulgaris, the most common type of acne, tea tree oil application showed incredible results compared to benzoyl peroxide. Fewer side effects were also seen with the oil
• Antioxidant effect: hydrogenated terpenes can make up to 45% of the oil’s composition. They are known as powerful antioxidants and antimicrobials.
• Antimicrobial activity: mainly attributed to the presence of terpinen-4-ol. Tea tree oil showed significant results against:²
  • Bacteria: it can remove MRSA from the skin
  • Viruses: this showed significant potential as a virucidal against HSV (herpes simplex virus)
  • Fungi: this was effective against dermatophytes, making it a great potential treatment for various fungal skin infections
  • Protozoa: it inhibited the growth of several protozoa
  • Anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic activity: it reduces the changes in blood vessels caused by neuropeptides (their presence contributes to allergic reactions and inflammation), helping manage swelling and redness

Tea tree oil also showed promising results as an anti-cancer agent when it reduced the growth of melanoma cells, not to mention its effect on wound healing, especially in burn victims and its great potential in treating psoriasis flare-ups and inflammation.^3,4

How to use tea tree oil?

Tea tree oil is for topical use only as it is highly toxic when taken orally. You can use tea tree oil for:

• Skin: Whether it’s acne, an infection, or a medical condition, you can apply tea tree oil directly with a cotton swap on the problematic area; however, it’s better to dilute this with a carrier oil. You can also add a few drops to your bathwater and enjoy the calming effect
• Scalp: a few drops in your shampoo should be sufficient to manage the issue from dandruff to psoriasis. Gently massaging the oil on your scalp before showering is also possible
• It can also be added to household cleaners for their antimicrobial effects to minimise the risk of infection

Potential risks and precautions

• As with using any essential oil, a skin test must be done first. Apply a small amount of the oil to a small skin area before extensive use to avoid any allergic reactions that might exacerbate your condition. Make sure you do this test on unproblematic skin with no existing cuts/inflammation
• You must stick to external use only to avoid any toxicity reactions
• It’s better to dilute essential oils and not apply them directly to the skin by using carrier oils (such as coconut oil or almond oil)
• Tea tree oil during pregnancy is likely safe, but it’s better to consult with your healthcare provider first

Conclusion

Tea tree is a tree native to Australia, and we obtain tea tree oil through steam distillation of its leaves. Tea tree oil has been used for almost a century for its many health benefits. Modern science has proven it a great anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant and recent research has shown its potential as an anti-cancer agent. The chemical profile of tea tree oil is very complex, but major compounds like terpinene-4-ol and cineole contribute to its overall effects and signature scent. 

Tea tree oil showed significant improvement in people with acne with an effect similar to benzoyl peroxide but with fewer side effects; it’s also a broad-spectrum antimicrobial showing remarkable effects against many bacterial, viral, protozoal and fungal infections. It manages the swelling that accompanies inflammation and is also very soothing for insect bites and skin irritation. The use of tea tree oil should be strictly topical because it’s very toxic orally. It can be incorporated into your skin and/or hair care, but it’s better diluted with other carrier oils (e.g. coconut oil) or lotions to avoid irritation.

FAQs

1. Is it safe to use tea tree oil daily?

Yes, consistent daily use will help you see the benefits.

2. What not to mix tea tree oil with?

Avoid mixing tea tree oil with other active ingredients, such as benzoyl peroxide, retinol, glycolic acid, lactic acid and vitamin C.

3. Can tea tree oil lighten your skin?

There is not much evidence that tea tree oil can improve hyperpigmentation. However, some people noticed that its use led to lightening their dark spots.

4. Can I add tea tree oil to my water?

Tea tree oil should never be taken orally as it can cause serious side effects and toxicity.