In our reference data, Melaleuca Alternifolia Oil can feed Malassezia (fungal acne).
Melaleuca Alternifolia Oil (tea tree oil) is an essential oil derived from the Australian tea tree, valued in skincare for its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is commonly used to address acne, fungal conditions, and minor skin infections.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Common | One of the more frequently reported reactions, often linked to oxidized oil with elevated levels of sensitizing degradation products. |
| Skin irritation (redness, stinging, burning) | Common | More likely with undiluted or high-concentration application, especially on sensitive or broken skin. |
| Dryness or peeling | Uncommon | Can occur with repeated topical use, particularly in acne regimens. |
| Photosensitivity / increased sun sensitivity | Rare | Reported infrequently; sun protection is advisable when using on facial skin. |
| Systemic toxicity from ingestion | Very rare | Oral ingestion (not topical use) can cause neurological effects such as ataxia and drowsiness; the oil is for external use only. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.