Tea tree oil is a versatile essential oil that can be used for various purposes, from personal hygiene to household cleaning. However, one of the most popular uses of tea tree oil is for skin care. 

Below are some of the benefits and uses of tea tree oil for the skin.

1. Acne
Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide and is caused by excess oil production, clogged pores, bacteria and inflammation. Tea tree oil can have a remarkable impact on persistent acne by killing the bacteria that causes it; its use also helps reduce the inflammation and redness while drying out the pimples. Learn more about the benefits of tea tree oil for acne via this NIH article.

How to use: To use tea tree oil for acne, you can either apply it directly to the affected areas or dilute it with a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil, coconut oil or almond oil. 

You can also add a few drops of tea tree oil to your cleanser, toner, moisturizer or mask. However, be careful not to use too much tea tree oil, as it can cause skin irritation, dryness and peeling, particularly when you don't dilute it. We always recommend a patch test before using tea tree oil to make sure you are not allergic to it.

2. Eczema
Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes dry, itchy and inflamed patches of skin. It can affect any part of the body, but it is more common on the face, neck, hands and feet.

Eczema can be triggered by various factors, such as allergens, irritants, stress and weather changes. Tea tree oil can help soothe eczema by moisturizing the skin, reducing the itching and irritation, and preventing infection. A 2012 study found that tea tree oil was more effective than zinc oxide and clobetasone butyrate creams in treating eczema.

How to use: To use tea tree oil for eczema, you can mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a moisturizer or a carrier oil and apply it to the affected areas after showering and before bed. You can also add a few drops of tea tree oil to your bath water to help hydrate and calm your skin.

3. Oily skin
Oily skin is a skin type that produces more sebum than normal, resulting in a shiny and greasy appearance. Oily skin can also lead to enlarged pores, blackheads and acne. Tea tree oil can help balance the oil production of the skin by acting as a natural astringent and antiseptic. A 2016 study found that participants who used a sunscreen containing tea tree oil for 30 days showed improvements in oiliness.

How to use: To use tea tree oil for oily skin, you can add a few drops of tea tree oil to your toner, moisturizer or sunscreen. You can also make a clay mask by mixing bentonite clay with water and a few drops of tea tree oil. Apply the mask to your face and leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse it off with warm water.

4. Itching
Itchy skin can be caused by various factors, such as dry skin, insect bites, allergies, infections and diseases. Tea tree oil can help relieve itching by reducing the inflammation and irritation of the skin. It can also help heal the underlying cause of the itching, such as fungal or bacterial infections. A 2012 study found that tea tree oil was effective in reducing itchy eyelids caused by Demodex mites.

How to use: To use tea tree oil for itching, you can mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil or a lotion and apply it to the itchy areas. You can also add a few drops of tea tree oil to a cotton ball and dab it on the affected areas. However, be careful not to use tea tree oil around the eyes, as it can cause irritation and damage.

5. Inflammation
Inflammation is a natural response of the body to injury, infection or irritation. It can cause symptoms such as swelling, redness, pain and heat. Inflammation can also affect the skin, causing conditions such as dermatitis, rosacea and psoriasis. Tea tree oil can help reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are molecules that trigger inflammation. A 2013 study found that tea tree oil reduced inflammation and improved the healing of wounds in mice.

How to use: To use tea tree oil for inflammation, you can apply a few drops of tea tree oil diluted with a carrier oil to the inflamed areas. You can also add a few drops of tea tree oil to a compress and apply it to the affected areas for 10 to 15 minutes.

6. Wounds
Would can be caused by cuts, scrapes, burns, bites or surgery. Wounds can become infected by bacteria, fungi or viruses, which can delay the healing process and cause complications. Tea tree oil can help prevent and treat wound infections by killing the microbes that cause them. It can also promote wound healing by stimulating the growth of new skin cells and reducing inflammation and scarring. A 2019 study found that tea tree oil enhanced the healing of diabetic foot ulcers in rats.

How to use: To use tea tree oil for wounds, you can clean the wound with water and soap, then apply a few drops of tea tree oil diluted with a carrier oil to the wound. You can also soak a gauze or a bandage with tea tree oil and cover the wound with it. Change the dressing every day and monitor the wound for signs of infection, such as pus, redness, swelling or fever.

7. Sunburn
Sunburn is a type of skin damage caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or artificial sources, such as tanning beds. Sunburn can cause symptoms such as redness, pain, blisters, peeling and itching.

Sunburn can also increase the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. Tea tree oil can help soothe sunburn by cooling and moisturizing the skin, reducing the inflammation and pain, and preventing infection. A 2011 study found that tea tree oil reduced the severity of sunburn in mice.

How to use: To use tea tree oil for sunburn, you can mix a few drops of tea tree oil with aloe vera gel or coconut oil and apply it to the sunburned areas. You can also add a few drops of tea tree oil to a spray bottle filled with water and spray it on the affected areas. However, do not use tea tree oil on open blisters or broken skin, as it can cause irritation and stinging.

Tea tree oil is a natural and effective remedy for various skin problems. It can help improve the appearance and health of your skin by soothing, healing and protecting it from bacteria, fungi, inflammation and other factors. However, tea tree oil should be used with caution, as it can cause allergic reactions, skin irritation and dryness in some people. It also should never be ingested.

Questions or concerns about using tea tree oil for your skin? Consult your doctor or a dermatologist before trying it.