Our skin is reflection to our lifestyle and health. Occasional breakouts and unsightly acne plague millions of people around the world. Acne, acne vulgaris, is the occurrence of inflamed or infected sebaceous glands in the skin, particularly a condition characterized by red pimples, zits, whiteheads, and blackheads on the face, back, chest.
What is your action play to keep them at bay?
Unfortunately, many people choose harsh chemicals and expensive scrubs to deal with them. Are they really worth of trying? – think before choosing them. Most of them contain cancer causing substances. Shocking right!
Tea Tree Oil for Pimples…!
Treating a problem caused by excess oil with an oil product – though this looks completely strange. Isn’t it? But according to the research done by University of Maryland Medical Center, tea tree oil is more effective and less harsh than benzoyl peroxide – a common ingredient present in commercial pimple treatments.
Research on Tea Tree Oil for Treating Pimples
Years of scientific research has been conducted on this natural miracle oil. There is no doubt of its effectiveness in clearing up pimples and acne. Let’s first explore the research already done to establish its actual usefulness.
Studies have shown that tea tree oil is more effective at clearing acne and pimples than benzoyl peroxide lotion and causes much less irritating side effects. While peroxide causes issues such as rashes, burning sensations, dryness, and itchiness, tea tree oil causes no side effects in 99 percent of cases where it is used on the skin.
Another study was published around 2007 that involved a group of 60 people of different age groups who were all suffering from acne. They were either treated with a gel containing five percent tea tree oil or with a placebo gel. While the group who received the placebo gel remained unaffected, significant improvement was seen in the group who received the tea tree oil gel.
These studies have proven that tea tree oil is, In fact, a viable treatment for clearing up pimples, acne, and many other symptoms of skin conditions.
Does Tea Tree Oil Work for Acne?
- It contains terpinen-4-ol that is responsible for its antimicrobial activity. When applied to the affected skin, it destroys the skin-dwelling bacteria that cause acne.
- It has antiseptic and antifungal properties that help prevent acne.
- It contains natural antibacterial and anti-microbial properties that make it an excellent alternative to harsh synthetic chemicals and kills acne-causing bacteria.
- It deeply penetrates skin to unblock the sebaceous glands. This disinfects the pores, dries out whiteheads, pimples, zits, and blackheads, and prevents further outbreaks.
- It is used as an antiseptic that removes damaged skin cells.
- It balances skin by controlling oil production.
- It has natural antibacterial properties that treat cystic acne naturally. It penetrates the skin to unblock the sebaceous glands, disinfect pores, and dry out blemishes.
How to Use Tea Tree Oil for Acne
Tea tree oil can be used in many ways to rid acne quickly. But make sure to use only 100% pure, organic tea tree oil for best results. If you don’t have time to prepare the home remedies, then try face masks that are specially designed for acne prone skin.
1. Tea Tree Oil
This method is very effective in reducing the swelling and redness of cystic acne. In order to boost the effectiveness of tea tree oil, wash the affected area with a face wash that contains active ingredients to fight with acne.
- Apply a few drops of tea tree oil to the affected area using a cotton ball.
- Leave for 3 – 4 hours or overnight.
- Repeat regularly for best results.
2. Diluted Tea Tree Oil
This method can alternately be used as a face rinse, if desired, and is effective for treating cystic acne.
- Rinse your face with water and pat dry.
- Mix 1 part tea tree oil and 9 parts water.
- Apply to the affected area using a cotton ball.
- Leave for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Rinse with cool water and pat dry.
- Apply moisturizer that doesn’t clog the pores.
- Repeat 2 times a day.
- Note: For sensitive skin or spot treatment, dilute oil with aloe vera gel instead of water.
3. Tea Tree Oil with Aloe Vera
Aloe vera kills the bacteria that cause acne and has anti inflammatory property which soothes the skin.
- Mix a few drops of tea tree oil and two teaspoons aloe vera gel.
- Apply to the affected area.
- Leave for 3 – 4 hours or overnight.
- Rinse with water and pat dry.
- Repeat regularly to treat acne.
4. Tea Tree Oil with Honey
Honey is a natural antibacterial that kills bacteria and heals skin.
- Mix a few drops of tea tree oil and two teaspoons of raw, organic honey.
- Apply to the pimple affected area using a cotton ball.
- Leave for 3 – 4 hours or overnight.
- Rinse with water and pat dry.
- Apply oil free moisturizer.
- Repeat regularly to treat acne.
- Note: You can refrigerate the left over mixture for later use.
5. Tea Tree Oil with Plain Yogurt
Yogurt soothes irritated skin and reduces redness.
- Wash your face and pat dry with a towel.
- Mix 5 drops of tea tree oil and 1/4 cup of plain yogurt.
- Apply paste to the affected area.
- Leave for 15 – 20 minutes.
- Rinse with warm water.
- Repeat regularly to treat acne.
- Alternatively, you can also use 2 – 3 drops of tea tree oil, 1 tablespoon of yogurt and 1 tablespoon of honey
6. Tea Tree Oil with Olive Oil
Olive oil has anti-bacterial properties and many nutrients that promote skin health. It also removes oil and other toxins from pores and moisturizes skin.
- Mix 3 drops of tea tree oil and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Use a cotton ball to apply the mixture on the affected area.
- Leave on for 20 – 30 minutes.
- Rinse with cool water and pat dry. Repeat daily.
- Repeat regularly for best results.
7. Tea Tree Oil and Coconut Oil
- Mix 1 teaspoon tea tree oil with 9 teaspoons of coconut oil.
- Wash and dry your face.
- Soak a clean wash cloth in hot water and drape it over your face.
- Leave on until cold to allow steam to open pores.
- Use fingertips to gently massage mixture into skin, rubbing in circular motions.
- Leave on for 5 minutes then rinse with cool water and pat dry.
- Alternatively, mix 3 tablespoons each of aloe vera gel, coconut oil, olive oil and 1 teaspoon tea tree oil.
- Alternatively, replace coconut oil with either aloe vera gel or olive oil.
- Repeat twice a day.
8. Tea Tree Oil in Green Clay Powder Face Mask
Clay masks are one of the most effective ways to remove toxins from pores.
- Mix 3 – 4 drops of tea tree oil, 2 tablespoons of green clay powder, and enough water to make a paste.
- Apply evenly to your face and neck.
- Leave for 20 – 30 minutes or until the clay dries.
- Rinse with warm water and pat dry with a towel.
- Repeat regularly to clear acne.
9.Tea Tree Oil in Jojoba Oil Face Mask
- Mix 3 – 5 drops of tea tree oil, a teaspoon of jojoba oil, and half of a finely chopped tomato to make a paste.
- Apply to the affected area.
- Leave for 10 – 15 minutes.
- Rinse with water and pat dry with a towel.
- Repeat regularly for best results.
10. Tea Tree Oil with Egg White
Egg white detoxifies and shrinks pores to smooth skin and prevent toxins from clogging pores.
- Whisk 4 drop of tea tree oils and one egg white.
- Apply to the affected area as a mask.
- Leave for 15 – 20 minutes.
- Rinse with lukewarm water.
- Repeat regularly to get rid of pimples.
11. Tea Tree Oil with Witch Hazel
Do not overuse this method as it may dry out the skin and make acne worse. Avoid direct sunlight as this method may make skin more sensitive to UV rays.
- Mix 3 – 5 drops of tea tree oil and 20 – 40 drops of witch hazel.
- Apply to the affected area using a cotton ball.
- Repeat 1 – 2 times daily for best results.
- Repeat regularly.
12. Tea Tree Oil with Homemade Scrub
Sugar melts as it exfoliates, detoxifying pores without causing irritation. This method is effective for treating cystic acne.
- Mix 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of sesame or olive oil, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 10 – 12 drops of tea tree oil.
- Apply to a damp face and massage gently in circular motions for 2 – 5 minutes.
- Rinse with warm water and pat dry with a towel.
- After that, wash it off with warm water and pat your face dry.
- Repeat regularly for best results.
- Note: Make a large amount and store in an airtight container for future use.
13. Tea Tree Oil Bath
- Pour 10 drops of 100% pure tea tree oil in warm water.
- Stir it well and take bath.
- It helps to clear the he pimples on the chest, back, shoulders and other parts of the body.
- Repeat regularly.
14. Tea Tree Oil Steam
Steam opens pores to allow maximum penetration by tea tree oil.
- Boil water and pour into large bowl.
- Mix in 5 drops of tea tree oil.
- Drape a towel over your head and lean into the steam for 5 minutes.
- Repeat regularly.
15. Tea Tree Oil in Cleanser and Moisturizer
This method combats stubborn pimples. Be sure to avoid the eye area.
- Add 2 – 6 drops of tea tree oil to your regular moisturizer and cleanser.
- Cleanse your face thoroughly.
- Rinse with water and pat dry.
- Apply moisturize on pimples.
- Repeat regularly.
Tea Tree Oil Products:
There are many products that have harnessed the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil for acne treatment. Try these products for added results.
- Some products like tea tree cleansers, moisturizers, soaps, lotions, and spot gels are available at the store or online.
- Tea tree oil gel deeply penetrates skin, drying acne and pimples. The gel is ideal for treating whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and acne as it unblocks the sebaceous ducts. Apply a small amount of gel to the affected area twice daily. Add aloe vera gel to avoid overly dry skin.
- Tea tree oil soap is the right way to gently cleanse and disinfect skin. Tea tree oil soap will stop breakouts and prevent more in the future.
Best Tea Tree Oil for Acne:
- It is always good to use to use 100 % pure Australian essential tea tree oil from reputed brands.
- Good brands of tea tree oil available in Australia are All Thursday plantation products (contains pure Australian TTO), All Desert Essence branded products (contains only pure Australian TTO) and Tea Tree Wonders offer only pure Australian TTO.
- Best brands in U.S., Canada, UK and other countries are Eden’s Garden, Plant Therapy, Essential Vitality, doTERRA, Aura Cacia, Young Living, CVS Melaleuca Alternifolia, etc.
Tips and Precautions:
For best results, follow the advice below when using tea tree oil to treat acne.
- Undiluted tea tree oil may cause skin irritation, redness, blistering, dryness, and itching. Dilute the oil with either water or aloe vera gel to avoid these symptoms.
- Tea tree oil should only be used for topical application. Ingesting the oil has severe side effects.
- Tea tree oil is not recommended for children, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or those with eczema.
- Stop using tea tree oil if you develop an allergic rash, blistering, or itching.
- Before starting regular tea tree oil treatments, do a patch test to find out of you are allergic to it.
- Make sure to use pure tea tree oil. Adulterants can cause adverse effects.
Like other acne treatments, tea tree oil is most effective when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, avoid excess sugar and carbohydrates, and drink enough water to stay completely hydrated.
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72 comments
This is my first time using tea tree oil on my acne and it feels itchy..is thursday plantation tea tree oil undiluted?i’m scared thinking that this product will worsen my skin condition since i have a sensitive skin
As you have mentioned of a sensitive skin, you must dilute it with carrier oils like olive oil or other natural ingredients like aloe vera or others. This will reduce the itchy feeling.
Can i use tea tree oil and aloe vera lotion ? Or do i need the gel ? Thxs
You have to use aloe vera gel.
When putting the tea tree oil in the bath how long should you stay in there and would it bother the rest of your body?
You can soak for 20 minutes. It will not bother the rest of your body. In fact it is good for your skin and hair. But make sure not to exceed the amount of tea tree oil mentioned in the method above.
when i use tea tree oil with aloe vera can i use it everyday and leave it overnight?
can i use the combination of aloe vera gel and tea tree oil to wash my face twice a day ?
thx
Yes you can use it every day and leave the application overnight. But don’t forget to rinse off next morning. It is better to use once in a day as using more amount of tea tree oil is also not recommended.
Under your tips section you said tea tree oil is not for use on children? Why is that? My 11 year old daughter has acne, would it be safe to use on her? Thanks.
Tea Tree Oil can be a neurotoxin for children. 1 drop of tea tree oil is equals to 10 drops of tincture. Children have very delicate skin than adults so inappropriate use of tea tree oil can lead to seizures in children. Instead of taking the risk, it is best to avoid them and try other remedies for acne.
Can I mix tea tree oil with olive oil or coconut oil to clean my makeup everyday. Can one also add it with body wash, facial wash or facial mask? Thank you for your explanation..
Yes you can.
for number 2, what does 1 part tea tree oil and 9 parts water mean? I am slightly confused about the measurements.
The measurement is ratio 1:9. For example if you take 1 tablespoon of tea tree oil you should take 9 tablespoons of water. This is just an example, mix according to your requirements.
I currently use witch hazel between washing and moisturizing on my arms, shoulders and back. I’m wanting to add tea tree oil to the witch hazel. Should I create a mixture in a separate bottle with the ratio you suggest and apply that to a cotton ball? Or, could I apply the witch hazel to a cotton ball, like I’ve been doing, and add a couple drops of tea tree oil directly onto the cotton ball? Is there a difference? Also, you mentioned that it could be over drying. If the witch hazel alone hasn’t been over drying when I use it everyday, would adding tea tree oil make it more drying? Thank you for your help.
It’s better to mix enough amounts of witch hazel and tea tree oil before application. It makes sure the ingredients are incorporated completely. If both witch hazel and tea tree oil are not drying your skin then no need applying moisturizer. If the mixture is making your skin dry then apply moisturizer.
Which brand of tea tree oil is best for face acne use ? & can we refigerate the diluted tea tree oil or should use fresh diluted oil everytime ?? It will effect on how many days on face acne ??
Whatever brands you choose make sure it is pure and original. You don’t have to refrigerate the diluted tea tree oil it can stay up to 2 or 3 days. It is better to use fresh tea tree oil every time. How long does it take to cure acne usually depends on many factors like hormones, immunity etc. It will differ from person to person.
Hi, if I apply undiluted tea tree oil AFTER my toner/serum/moisturiser on my entire forehead ( as that’s where the pimples are) is it fine? I don’t feel tight or itchy if that’s any indication? I’m using The Thursday Plantation.
Thx
As you are not feeling any itchiness you can try it.
Is tea tree oil allergic to skin?
It is considered safe if diluted properly. If the application of tea tree oil causing you redness, allergy, rashes, stinging or itching then avoid it. You should patch test before trying regular treatments with tea tree oil.
Hey. I just bought tea tree oil and I’m a little worried what’ll happen if i use it. Which is the best way to get rid of acne with no itchiness and all with tea tree oil?
Diluted tea tree oil will not cause any itchiness or redness. If you are still worried then you can try different remedies like aloe vera, honey, green tea or other ingredients. You can find remedies using them in this article – http://wellness.guide/acne/
What tea tree oil gel do you recommend? I’m having a hard time finding options.
Check out the label for 100% organic certified, terpinen 4-OL or more and packaged in dark brown color glass bottle.
I am using All Thursday plantation TTO. I started using TTO 2 weeks ago. My method: I wash my face with Clean&clear acne-control foaming wash (2%0 salicylic acid, I do not dry my face after shower and then I apply 3 to 4 drops of TTO directly on the wet face. I usually get mild to moderate itchiness, then I follow up with Clean&Clear Dual action mosturiser. It’s difficult to explain the result so far. Within the first 1 wk I noticed it was really reducing my acne (even the scars) but suddenly I noticed I breakout seriously almost everyday. Looks like a big fight between clearing the old stuff and handling the new breakouts. Can’t really say what’s going on and what to do, any help will be appreciated. Thanks
Application of TTO might not have caused the breakouts. Yet it is better to dilute tea tree oil with some water before application to avoid itchiness. Breakouts can be caused due to many reasons so it is better to first find out the real reason behind the trigger. For example pimples can be caused due to clogged pores or hormonal imbalance. Apart from trying out topical treatments take care of your internal health as well. Drink plenty of water to flush out toxins, exfoliate to unclog the pores and eat nutrition rich food to balance your hormones. Hope this helps.
I have acne and pimple that left black spots on my face. (1) Can I dilute tea tree oil with honey and apply the mixture all over my face for acne, pimples and black spots? (2) Does the tea tree oil bleach?
Thanks
Yes, you can. No, tea tree oil doesn’t contain any bleaching properties but as per a research it has shown lightening effect on the scars. Honey also contains mild bleaching properties which lighten the scars.
Can i use tree oil in my lotion and apply it everyday and is it okay for me to put tea tree oil in gentle magic face cream that i use evryday?
Yes, you add 1 – 2 drops of tea tree oil into your lotion or gentle magic cream and use it for everyday application.
hi,
i have never used TTO. so could u tell me how and when to use this with my daily routine like after face wash, toner or before face wash.
After face wash, add a drop of tea tree oil into your face cream and apply it over your face.
can i combine tea tree oil and rosehip oil or it’s not exactly complementary?
Yes, you can combine tea tree oil with rose hip oil. Rose hip oil penetrates deep into the skin and helps the skin cells to rejuvenate.
I want to make my own tea tree oil concealer to cover blemishes. Can I mix a batch of the tea tree oil with my Cover FX concentrated pigment drops and put it in an air-tight container to keep for a while? How long will it stay fresh? Or do I need to mix a new batch every day?
Hi i m using tea tree oil of the body shop company which have 15 percent tea tree oil ,can it useful for acne ? Please guide me
Yes, it can be helpful.
I m using The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil. Is this company good or not?
You can use if it states 100% pure tea tree oil.
Hello,
My skin is extremely sensitive, so I want to use the tea tree oil and aloe mixture with an aloe vera plant that I grow at home. However, I’m not sure how long this mixture will last. How much should I make, and how often should I make a fresh mixture? How should I store it?
Also, any other tip for very sensitive and acne prone skin would be wonderful. Thank you!
You have to make a fresh mixture every time. The stored mixture is less effective than freshly prepared ones. Use cleanser and moisturizers have less chemicals and gentle on your skin. Drink plenty of water to flush out the toxins. Stay indoors or cover your face with hat/scarf from the harsh sun rays.
When using tea tree oil and witch hazel, do I use it before or after cleansing my face? And after applying it, do I just leave it at that or do I need to rinse it off after a set amount of time? Thank you
You have to use it after cleansing your face. You have to leave the application to completely dry. Don’t rinse off the application after drying.
Can I use this oil with almond oil for skin???or ways the best oil preferred to mix with for acne
Yes, you can mix tea tree oil with almond oil, coconut oil or olive oil to treat acne.
Hey there?
I was wondering if I should use the moisturizer after the tea tree oil or vice versa? Right now I’m doing the moisturizer and then the tea tree oil but I’m not sure if I’m not doing it right.
Many Thanks!
You have to first apply tea tree oil and let it dry completely and then apply moisturizer.
Hi, I have pigmentation on my face..so can i use tea tree oil with mixture of alovera gel and honey? Pls guide
Yes, you can. Try it regularly without interruption to achieve the results. And don’t forget to share your experience with us.
Can we use tea tree oil in removing under eyes darkness??
Is it effective?
Yes, you can. Tea tree oil is effective in reducing dark circles, puffy eyes and water retention under the eyes. Combine 1 teaspoon of coconut oil/almond oil and 2 – 3 drops of tea tree oil. Apply the mixture around the eyes before going to bed. Leave it overnight and rinse off in the morning. Repeat the process regularly daily until you notice the results.
My dr has prescribed me nourish flourish acne face wash it’s active ingredients are vitamins & tea tree oil but with its usage my skin get too much dry & red, I am using it from 6days should I continue or discontinue it
If it is causing redness and dryness then it is better to stop it. Excessively dry skin can in turn trigger excess oil production and acne. Consult your dermatologist and discuss about the discomforts you are experiencing with the prescribed face wash.
Is it okay to apply honey mixed with tea tree oil on pimples overnight after having moisturizer containing tea tree oil on your face the whole day?
Yes, you can.
Hi I have blackheads is it okay to dilute with water and leave it over night or will it burn my face.
Instead of that, we recommend following any of the methods mentioned in this article – http://wellness.guide/blackheads/.
I want to use tea tree oil on the folliculitis on the back of my legs and buttocks. If I apply after showering (diluting with coconut oil) can I leave on all day. Could I mix this ahead of time to avoid making it every day? If so, do need to store it. In glass jars?
Yes, you can leave the application all day. Yes, you can mix it ahead and store it in a glass jar.
Hi, I have bought thursday plantation tree tea oil. I’m having marks and darkspot due to the pimples. Can I apply the tree tea oil all over the face and leave it overnight and rinse off in the morning to get rid the marks and any darkspots? .Is it safe ? Please do advice me.
Yes, you can leave tea tree oil application overnight. However, you have to dilute it with some water or carrier oil to avoid any side effects like sensitivity or redness.
Hi, Is it okay if i wanted to apply the thursday plantation TTO to the whole face and leave it overnight?
Yes, you can but make sure to dilute it with any carrier oil or water before applying it on the face. Patch test on your inner arm to know whether the mixture is enough diluted or strong on your skin. If you are observing any redness or irritation then add more water to dilute it.
Can i mix tea tree oil, aloe vera and olive oil together to apply on my face once daily?
Yes, you can. But make sure to patch test the mixture before trying out the treatment.
Hi
Im washing my face using tea tree facial scrub, after patting my face dry i put on aloe vera gel with tea tree oil and leaving it be absorbed. And lastly, my face serum.
Am I doing it right?
Yes, you are. Try it regularly and share your experience.
Hi, I’m currently using aveeno foaming acne cleanser as well as the moisturizer. I would like to know if it is okay to be using tea tree oil with these products. Typically I would use the cleanser, then a toner (witch hazel), then I would apply the tea tree oil along with coconut oil or my aveeno acne moisturizer.
Can I use aloe Vera wit antiseptic tea tree oil on my face and how long can I leave it on for? I suffer from very puffy tired eyes and bags. Is it good for that?
Can I use aloe Vera gel wit antiseptic tea tree oil on my face and how long can I leave it on for? I suffer from very puffy tired eyes and bags. Is it good for that?