Tea Tree Oil

Category: Essential Oil, Antimicrobial

Brief Description: Tea tree oil is derived from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, a plant native to Australia. It is well-known for its potent antiseptic properties and ability to treat wounds.

Benefits: Tea tree oil is a popular choice for treating acne because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It's thought to calm redness, swelling, and inflammation. It may even help to prevent and reduce acne scars, leaving you with smooth, clear skin.

Skin Type Suitability/Concerns: Most suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. Not recommended for dry and sensitive skin without dilution due to its potent nature.

Target Audience: Individuals with oily, acne-prone skin, and those seeking a natural antimicrobial agent.

Chemical Composition: Contains over 100 components, including terpinen-4-ol, gamma-terpinene, alpha-terpinene, which give the oil its characteristic properties.

Physical Aspect: A clear to very pale golden color liquid with a fresh camphoraceous odor.

Compatibility: Mixes well with other essential oils and carrier oils.

Concentration: Used in low concentrations (usually less than 1%) in skin care products. Higher concentrations can be used for spot treatments but must be used with caution.

Side Effects/Adverse Reactions: Can cause skin irritation and allergies in some individuals. Should not be ingested due to potential toxicity.

Regulatory Status: Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use, but usage guidelines recommend a maximum of 1% concentration in finished products to avoid skin irritation.

Sustainability/Ethical Considerations: Sourced from plantations in Australia where the tea tree is native and grows prolifically, making it a sustainable choice. However, overharvesting and habitat destruction can be concerns. Ethical sourcing practices should ensure sustainable cultivation and harvesting.

Variant:

• Tea Tree Essential Oil (all tea tree oil is usually the same variant, derived from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia)