Want a natural alternative to conventional skin treatments? Learn how Tea Tree Oil can help you achieve fantastic, flawless and healthy skin.
Tea tree is the common name for the species of shrub Melaleuca Alternifolia, whose origin can be found in Australia and from which tea tree oil is extracted, which is very beneficial for the treatment of some conditions that can affect our skin.
It consists of a small tree, which can reach a maximum height of 5 meters. Its flowers grow in spikes and are white in color, while its fruit is woody, cup-shaped and small.
Its leaves, 10 to 35 mm long by 1 mm wide, are characterized by being linear, narrow and very aromatic. It is widely used by the Australian aborigines for the preparation of a really refreshing tea. Currently, its oil is used for the treatment of some skin conditions or to improve its appearance, thanks to its healing, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi properties.
Tea tree oil can also be used as an effective alternative to deodorant, as a mouthwash or insect repellent.
1.- Effective treatment against acne.
Thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil can help in cases of acne, soothing redness, swelling and inflammation of this skin condition. In addition, it can improve the appearance of scars, leaving it smooth, clear and healthy looking.
Usage. Dilute 3 drops of tea tree oil in 2 ounces of witch hazel to use as a tonic on the affected area 1 to 3 times a day. You can also make sure your facial soap and moisturizer contain tea tree oil.
2.- Relief of itchy skin.
Because tea tree oil contains anti-inflammatory properties, it can help cure itchy skin infections.
Usage. Mix a few drops of this oil in a moisturizer or carrier oil and apply it several times a day on the affected area.
3.- Decrease of Eczema and Dry Skin.
The application of tea tree oil on eczema and dry skin helps reduce the irritation and itching that these conditions produce. It is even thought to be more effective than zinc oxide or conventional creams used to improve these conditions.
Usage. In a small amount of moisturizer or carrier oil, place a few drops of tea tree oil. Mix very well and apply, at least once a day, on the affected areas. A good time to apply it would be after getting out of the shower.
4.- Improves oily skin.
Due to its antiseptic properties, tea tree oil can contribute to a significant decrease in the production of oil on the skin of your face Usage. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil in your moisturizer or sunscreen.
Reduction of inflammation. The anti-inflammatory property of tea tree oil can help soothe and calm red, swollen, sore and irritated skin.
Usage. Add 1 drop of tea tree oil to a carrier oil or moisturizer and apply to the affected area several times a day.
6.- Maintains the health and good appearance of your hair.
Tea tree oil can help eliminate chemicals and dead cells responsible for the appearance of dandruff from the scalp and can also significantly improve the appearance of your hair, allowing you to keep it healthy, hydrated and with a good growth rate.
Usage. Mix tea tree oil with a carrier oil and apply to your hair and scalp. Leave it on for about 20 minutes. Afterwards, remove with a shampoo containing 5% tea tree oil. Massage your hair for about 3 minutes and then rinse with plenty of water. Finally, apply a conditioner that also contains tea tree oil.
Accelerated healing of wounds, cuts and infections. Another property of tea tree oil is its ability to fight bacteria, which makes it an effective wound healer.
Usage. Add a drop of tea tree oil to a wound cream and apply according to the instructions on the cream.
What type of tea tree oil to buy?
It is important that you choose a tea tree oil that is 100% natural, with no additives. Organic if possible and from a well-known brand.
Give preference to an oil containing 10% to 40% concentration of terpinen-4-ol, which is the main antiseptic component of tea tree oil.
How much to use?
The effects of tea tree oil will begin to be seen within a few days after its first application. You will need to be consistent with its use to see the desired effects. Also, you will be able to use it continuously, even and when the marks on your skin have disappeared, to prevent them from reappearing.
Prevention:
Although tea tree oil is very effective in soothing and curing a wide range of skin problems, you should take some precautions when using it:
1. It is important to dilute tea tree oil either in olive oil, coconut oil or almond oil (this is what we call base oil). You should not apply it directly on the skin.
So, for every 1 or 2 drops of tea tree oil, you should add 12 drops of any of the oils we have mentioned.
2. You should be especially careful when applying the tree oil to the area near the eyes, as it can cause irritation or reddening of the eyes.
Before applying tea tree oil, do a patch test to make sure that your skin does not react unfavorably to contact with it.
Note: Consult your doctor before starting to use tea tree oil. take.com does not give medical advice. This site only seeks to share information that can help people in a general way.