How Is Tea Tree Oil Used on the Face?

This essential oil is derived from the leaves of the tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), which is native to Australia. Like other essential oils, tea tree oil has been used for medicinal purposes for hundreds of years. The Australian aborigines used it to clean wounds and treat infections. Nevertheless, it was only in 1922 that the antiseptic and antibacterial properties of the plant were demonstrated by the chemist Arthur DE RAMAN PENFOLD. Small anecdote: At the beginning of the second world war, tea tree oil was added to each medicine kit in the army and the Australian navy because of its anti-infectious properties.

Tea tree oil is the result of steam distillation (hydrodistillation). 100 kg of tea tree leaves are usually needed to harvest 1 to 2 liters of tea tree essential oil. Organoleptically, it is a clear colorless to pale yellow liquid with a woody smell. It contains mainly monoterpenols (about 45% of terpinen-4-ol) and monoterpenes (gamma-terpinene, alpha terpinene, limonene). These compounds are at the origin of its purifying and cleansing properties. It is particularly recommended for oily skin with imperfections because it limits acne outbreaks and reduces the scars that can result.

You should never apply undiluted tea tree oil to the skin. Tea tree oil can actually be drying and even irritating when used pure on the skin. Therefore, always dilute this essential oil in a high quality vegetable oil. High quality vegetable oils are less likely to be contaminated with other ingredients. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you search for a carrier vegetable oil.

• If you can, choose an organic oil.

• Make sure the oil you buy is 100% pure.

• Always research the brand to make sure it is reputable.

Regarding tea tree oil, some bottles may indicate its terpinene concentration. Terpinene is the main antiseptic agent in tea tree oil. To get the maximum benefit, choose a product with a terpinene concentration between 10 and 40%.

Then mix the essential oil with the carrier oil (e.g. olive oil, coconut oil, sunflower oil, jojoba oil, almond oil, avocado oil). Use the following ratio: 12 drops of carrier oil to 1 to 2 drops of tea tree oil.

This mixture can be applied on the face in the evening as well as in the morning, but you should avoid using it near the eyes. Alternatively, you can apply this mixture locally, only on your blemishes. Soak a cotton swab in the mixture and apply it directly to the blemishes. Repeat this process 1 to 2 times a day, as needed.

Always do a patch test. Apply a coin-sized amount of the diluted oil to your forearm. If you don't feel any irritation within 24 hours, it's safe to apply elsewhere.