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Buttea tree oilis not one of those flashy standouts.
Still, it’s a little likebenzoyl peroxide’smisunderstood cousin: When applied incorrectly, things can go wrong fast.
We consulted a few dermatologists to clear things up.
What exactly is tea tree oil?
“Aboriginal Australians extracted the oil for traditional healing.
Most methods of extraction involve steam distillation to obtain the essential oil.”
How does tea tree oil benefit skin?
Plus, she adds, “it helps calm the skin and reduces redness due to acne pustules.”
What skin pop in is tea tree oil best for?
“With oily and acne-prone patients it helps [clarify skin] to support balance.”
Like other essential oils, tea tree oil should only be used topically never ingested.
Which ingredients shouldn’t be paired with tea tree oil?
She also says that anyone witheczemashould steer clear of tea tree oil, too.
“Applying tea tree oil on an actively inflamed rash will likely make it worse.
I recommend using occlusive emollients, like petrolatum-based ointments, and prescription topical anti-inflammatory medications instead.”
What kind of tea tree oil products should I use?
Chan prefers tea tree oil cleansers because they typically have low concentrations, minimizing the risk of irritation.
(The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Clearing Facial WashandBiossance Squalane + Tea Tree Cleansing Gelare her picks.)
Ives' newest acne line, which features a low concentration of both salicylic acid and tea tree oil.
For spot treatments, we’re partial to the Best of Beauty-winningFlorence by Mills Spot a Spot Acne Patches.
Check out Amanda Steele’s 10-minute makeup routine:
