Tea tree oil is one of the most well-studied essential oils out there. It comes from the Melaleuca tree in Australia, and the indigenous people have used it for ages to treat skin issues. Chemist Arthur Penfold discovered its strong antiseptic properties in the 1920s.
Nowadays, tea tree oil is famous for its numerous skin benefits. It’s a popular ingredient in many skincare products like creams, oils, and face washes due to its natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Many doctors even recommend it as an alternative to conventional medications because it’s effective and has fewer side effects.
Choosing the Best Tea Tree Oil
For the best results, you should get 100% pure tea tree oil. Many products only contain a small amount of it. Pure tea tree oil can be safely used on the skin, but it’s always a good idea to do a patch test first. To be extra safe, dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut, almond, or jojoba oil.
10 Benefits of Using Tea Tree Oil on Your Skin
1. Treating Acne
Tea tree oil has strong antibacterial and antifungal properties that reduce skin inflammation. Studies have shown it’s as effective as benzoyl peroxide, a common acne treatment. A small amount can penetrate the skin, dry out blemishes, and disinfect pores. Mix a few drops with witch hazel and apply it to the skin with a cotton ball. For body acne, add a couple of drops to a bath. If you have sensitive skin, dilute it with olive or coconut oil. Be careful not to overuse it as it can dry out your skin and make things worse.
2. Relieving Psoriasis
Psoriasis causes red, scaly patches on the skin. Tea tree oil can help ease the discomfort and speed up healing. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties help remove dead skin cells and control skin cell production. Mix 10 drops of tea tree oil with 2 tablespoons of melted coconut oil and apply to the affected area two to three times a day.
3. Eczema Relief
Eczema can cause severe itching and discomfort. Tea tree oil’s antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties can soothe the itch and heal the skin. Mix 20 drops of tea tree oil with half a cup of coconut oil and apply it to the affected areas twice a day. For widespread eczema, take a tea tree oil bath by adding 15 drops to a bath with olive or almond oil.
4. Cuts and Infections
For cuts and infections, tea tree oil combined with lavender oil makes a great homemade ointment. Clean the cut with water and hydrogen peroxide, then apply a mix of tea tree and lavender oil diluted in jojoba oil. Cover it with a bandage to prevent infection.
5. Razor Burn Relief
Tea tree oil can soothe the irritation from razor burns. Mix several drops with two teaspoons of witch hazel, apply with a cotton ball to the affected areas, and enjoy the relief.
6. Athlete’s Foot
Make a homemade athlete’s foot powder with tea tree oil, arrowroot powder, and baking soda. This mixture helps absorb moisture and fight the fungus causing the condition. Rinse your feet, dry them, and apply the powder twice a day.
7. Makeup Remover
Tea tree oil can be used as a natural makeup remover. Mix a quarter cup of extra-virgin olive oil with 10 drops of tea tree oil in a jar. Shake well and store in a cool, dark place. Use a cotton ball to apply the mixture and rinse with warm water.
8. Boils
Tea tree oil can even fight staph infections, including antibiotic-resistant ones. Dab diluted tea tree oil onto boils several times a day.
9. Warts
Tea tree oil’s antiviral and antiseptic properties make it effective against warts. Apply a drop of pure tea tree oil to the wart, cover it with a bandage, and leave it on for at least eight hours. Repeat this process until the wart falls off, usually within one to four weeks.
10. Soothe Chickenpox and Fade Scars
For chickenpox, a warm bath with tea tree oil can relieve itching and help prevent scarring. Add 5 drops of tea tree oil diluted in a carrier oil to the bath and soak for at least 20 minutes.
Ready to try tea tree oil? Make sure to get a bottle of 100% pure tea tree oil for the best results.
