Tea tree extract is derived from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia and contains terpene compounds (notably terpinen-4-ol) that provide antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory activity. It is commonly used in topical formulations to help manage acne and minor skin irritations.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skin irritation (stinging, burning, dryness) | Common | More likely at higher concentrations or on sensitive/broken skin. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Uncommon | Risk increases with oxidized product; ascaridole and other degradation products are key sensitizers. |
| Erythema and itching | Uncommon | Often resolves with discontinuation. |
| Prepubertal gynecomastia (with topical use) | Rare | Reported in case studies, possibly linked to endocrine-disrupting potential; causality debated. |
| Systemic toxicity from ingestion | Very rare | Oral ingestion can cause ataxia and CNS depression; relevant to accidental swallowing, not topical use. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.