What Is Tea Tree Oil? Benefits, Uses, Side Effects, and More

First, keep in mind that tea tree oil should only be used topically and that ingesting the ingredient isn’t safe. It’s a good idea to try a patch test first, by applying the oil on the inside of your forearm and waiting a day or two to see if a rash forms.

To get started with adding tea tree oil to your skin-care routine, either purchase a skin-care product that contains tea tree oil or use the essential oil itself, says Dr. Holman. To use the essential oil, it’s very important to dilute it first by mixing it with a carrier, such as a witch hazel toner or moisturizer. (Applying the undiluted oil can cause an allergic reaction on the skin, Holman says.)

Holman recommends using three drops of tea tree oil to two ounces (oz) of product. You can use tea tree oil in the morning or at night. Combine tea tree oil with a witch hazel toner if you have acne, which can be done after cleansing your skin, or combine the oil with a moisturizer (such as coconut oil) as a last step in your evening skin-care routine, if you also have dry or sensitive skin.

It can make skin more sun sensitive, says Holman. For that reason, don’t apply it immediately before going outdoors. No matter what skin-care products you’re using, though, it’s always important to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to your face every morning.

Hooper recommends that people with acne-prone skin apply a product containing tea tree oil once or twice a day, focusing on pimple trouble zones like the chin or T-zone. You can apply this product in the morning, at night, or both, but choose a time when you’re most likely to consistently apply it, she adds. Use the ingredient routinely to see the best results, Hooper suggests.

She also points out that it may take a few months to see real improvement in your skin, so give it 12 weeks of consistent use before assessing the effects on your acne. (That’s because pimple formation can begin months before the red bump appears, she says.)

If, after 12 weeks, you’re not seeing results, you may need a stronger acne product. A board-certified dermatologist can help develop an acne-fighting plan appropriate for your skin. Tea tree oil is also better suited for mild acne, and is likely not strong enough if you have more moderate or severe forms of the skin condition, says Hooper.