Tea Tree Oil for Acne: Does It Work and How to Use It Safely

A 2015 review of 35 studies on the use of complementary treatments for acne concluded that there's some evidence to support using tea tree oil for acne. But researchers note that this evidence isn't of the best quality.

One 2006 study found that tea tree oil has both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. This may help with treating inflammatory acne lesions, such as pimples.

A 2016 study looked at using a combination of tea tree oil and resveratrol to protect the skin from sun damage. Although not the aim of the study, researchers found most participants had less oil and bacteria on their skin, as well as smaller pores. This could potentially improve acne.

In a 2017 study, participants applied tea tree oil to their face twice daily for 12 weeks. At the end of the study, researchers concluded tea tree oil has the ability to 'significantly improve' mild to moderate acne with no serious side effects. But this study only had 14 participants and didn't adhere to other research quality standards.

A 2018 study found combining aloe vera, propolis, and tea tree oil can also improve acne.

Overall, the research says tea tree oil might help improve acne, but it's not a cure-all.

Follow these steps for safe dilution and application.

With most acne treatments, you'll want to use the treatment every day for best results. This includes tea tree oil.

Once you've done a patch test and know it's safe to use diluted tea tree oil on your skin, you can apply the oil to the affected area twice a day as part of your morning and evening skin care routine.

Tea tree oil is generally safe to use on the skin. It's not safe to swallow it. Ingesting it can cause serious symptoms, including confusion and ataxia. Ataxia is a loss of muscle coordination.

Also be careful not to get tea tree oil in your eyes, as it can cause redness and irritation.

If tea tree oil is correctly diluted, most people can use it on their skin without any serious problems. However, some people may develop an allergic skin reaction or skin irritation on the area where the oil was used.

That's why it's important to do a patch test on a small area of your skin before using diluted tea tree oil on your face. Make sure you stop using the oil right away if you notice any:

• itching
• redness
• swelling
• irritation

Tea tree oil is widely available and easy to find. You can find it at most drugstores as well as online. You may even find it at your local grocery store in the personal care section.

If you're looking to buy tea tree oil to use on your skin, buy the purest oil available. Make sure the label says it's 100 percent tea tree oil.

Besides its acne benefits, tea tree oil may also help treat:

• eczema
• nail fungus
• scabies
• scalp conditions, such as dandruff

Research suggests tea tree oil may be helpful for mild to moderate acne breakouts. This is thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

While it may not be as effective as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid for treating acne, tea tree oil may be an over-the-counter (OTC) option if you have a sensitivity to these ingredients.

If you don't see an improvement in your acne with OTC products, you may need prescription medications. A dermatologist can help find the best treatment for you. Treatment options may include:

• retinoids
• oral or topical antibiotics
• anti-androgen therapy
• birth control pills

While tea tree oil shouldn't replace your current acne regimen, it may be a good complementary treatment.