Tea tree oil – Australia

It is obtained from the tea tree, which grows in Australia. The oil has a thin, watery consistency and a pale, slightly yellow colour. Tea tree extracts can help rid the skin of various types of inflammation and infection. This makes it suitable for treating acne or cold sores. It also helps heal cuts, insect bites, burns and sunburn. This essential oil is obtained by distilling the leaves and branch tips of a tree native to the Australian coast of New South Wales and Queensland. It is a 100% plant-based organic extract without synthetic additives, known for its strong, eucalyptus-like aroma. Indigenous peoples have used it for centuries in traditional Australian medicine to disinfect wounds and prevent infections. Today, it is grown organically to preserve its natural properties and is highly concentrated, so it is always diluted with a carrier oil.

It is used as a powerful **antibacterial** and **anti-inflammatory** agent that kills bacteria, viruses and fungi without damaging the surrounding healthy skin. It **soothes** irritation, **stimulates wound healing** by supporting cell regeneration and **restores the skin barrier**. It also has **antioxidant** effects that protect against free radicals. It can also achieve excellent results in treating fungal infections of the nails or skin on the feet. Tea tree essential oil is highly effective at stimulating the immune system. It also effectively kills various bacteria, viruses and fungi. It relieves and soothes most symptoms associated with skin irritation or infections. In cosmetics, it is used at a concentration of 1-5 % in formulations, with a 5 % gel containing this oil significantly reducing the number of acne lesions.

It is particularly recommended for **acne-prone**, **oily** and **blemish-prone skin**, where it regulates sebum production and minimises pores. It is also ideal for **sensitive skin** prone to inflammation, cold sores or eczema, as well as **dehydrated** or **damaged skin** following burns and bites. It is suitable for adults with **mature skin**, where it supports healing and helps prevent infections. Do not use undiluted on the face of children or pregnant women; always dilute it and carry out a patch test.

A clinical study from 1990 showed that a gel containing 5 % tea tree oil reduced the total number of acne lesions by 43,6 % and inflammatory lesions by 40,5 % after 45 days of treatment in patients with mild to moderate acne (Journal of Family Practice, 1990). Further research confirmed that, at a concentration of 5 %, it has an antibacterial effect against Propionibacterium acnes comparable to that of 5 % benzoyl peroxide, but with less redness (Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1995).