Tea tree extract (from Melaleuca alternifolia) is a plant-derived oil with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties commonly used to target acne and minor skin infections. It is considered a treatment active in many topical formulations.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skin irritation (redness, stinging, dryness) | Common | More likely at higher concentrations or with undiluted oil. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Uncommon | Risk increases with oxidized product; patch testing advised for sensitive individuals. |
| Contact urticaria | Rare | Localized hives reported in sensitized individuals. |
| Systemic toxicity if ingested | Very rare | Oral ingestion can cause ataxia and CNS depression; topical use only. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.