Tea tree oil uses: Clear acne
One of the most common tea tree oil uses is as a home remedy for acne. Research published in the 2017 Australasian Journal of Dermatology reinforces what many earlier tea tree oil studies have found: when used to treat mild to moderate facial acne, “tea tree oil products reduce numbers of lesions and are well tolerated.” Ava Shamban, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with Ava MD in Beverly Hills and Santa Monica, California agrees. She explains that tea tree oil offers a host of dermatologic benefits. Its ability to help combat facial skin problems like acne or boils, without compromising the rest of the healthy skin microbiome on your face, she says, makes it ideal in this case. She suggests diluting a couple of drops of the oil with a carrier oil like rosehip oil and applying it to the problem areas.
Tea tree oil uses: Remove makeup
“Tea tree oil is anti-bacterial,” says Dr. Shamban. She explains that many people, especially those living in or near cities, may end up having more pollutants stick to their skin. Cleansing your face with tea tree oil can help remove makeup as well as these pollutants—and it’s an added bonus if you have an underlying skin condition like acne; it’s antibacterial effects help. Just be careful not to overdo it. She explains that more isn’t necessarily better and advises not using tea tree oil that’s higher than a one-percent concentration. Dr. Shamban suggests mixing a few drops with a carrier oil such as rosehip oil on a cotton ball, then sweeping it over your face. While you’re at it, here are some other life-changing ways you can use cotton balls.