We may earn a commission from the affiliate links on this page, but we only recommend products and services we love. We promise!
Let's be real—when it comes to fighting acne, the skincare world is packed with options. Every other day, there's a new "game-changing" ingredient coming out that promises to clear your skin overnight. From benzoyl peroxide to salicylic acid to trendy new actives like azelaic acid and bakuchiol, the choices are endless. But despite all the new innovations, some classics never go out of style—and one of them is tea tree oil.
This natural powerhouse has been a skincare go-to for years, especially for those with oily, acne-prone skin, and for good reason. Tea tree oil is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and amazing at keeping breakouts in check without being overly harsh on your skin. If you haven't given tea tree oil a spot in your skincare routine yet, this is your sign to do so. *wink*
Ahead, we'll give you all the deets you need to know about this acne-fighting MVP, including its benefits, how to incorporate it into your routine, and the best tea tree oil-infused products to shop for. Keep on reading to learn more:
What is tea tree oil?
Tea tree oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree, which is native to Australia. Indigenous Australians have used it for centuries to treat wounds and infections because of its natural antibacterial and healing properties.
Fast forward to today, and tea tree oil is now a skincare MVP—especially for those of us dealing with oily skin, acne, redness, and irritation Thanks to its ability to fight bacteria, soothe irritation, and keep breakouts in check, you’ll find it in tons of cleansers, serums, and even scalp treatments(!).
What are the benefits of using tea tree oil?
Fun fact: Tea tree oil isn't just for healing pimples (although it's damn good at it)—it can also be used to solve a variety of problems:
- Acne and breakouts. If you're constantly dealing with breakouts, it might be time to incorporate tea tree oil into your skincare routine. It can kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation.
- Oily skin. Does your forehead look like an oil slick by noon? (*raises hand*) Tea tree oil can help with that—it regulates sebum production, so you just look glowy, not greasy.
- Redness and irritation. If your skin is sensitive AF and is prone to irritation, you can count on tea tree oil's anti-inflammatory properties to help calm things down.
- Dandruff and itchy scalp. If you're dealing with dandruff, you probably already have a few anti-flake products in your arsenal. However, if you want to try the more natural route, you can also put a few drops of tea tree oil in your shampoo to soothe irritation.
- Minor cuts and bed bug bites. Thanks to its antiseptic properties, tea tree oil can also be used on minor scrapes and mosquito bites.
SHOP: The best tea tree oil-infused skincare products to try
Mediheal Teatree Acne Toner Pad
For nights when you just feel too lazy to complete your skincare routine—don't worry, this is a safe space—toner pads will be your new best friend. This variant from popular K-beauty skincare brand Mediheal is formulated with a blend of tea tree oil, centella asiatica, and heartleaf extract to calm down irritated AF pimples.
Mediheal Teatree Acne Toner Pad, P1,067, Shopee
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tea-Trica Purifying Toner
Tea tree oil can still be a bit too much for people with sensitive skin. This toner from SKIN1004, however, combines it with centella asiatica to counteract any irritation. It can also calm down breakouts and control excess sebum without making your face feel taut. Lastly, it also has niacinamide, which can brighten dark spots and strengthen your skin barrier.
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tea-Trica Purifying Toner, P559, Shopee and Lazada
Human Nature Natural Tea Tree Oil
If you're looking for a powerful spot treatment for pimples, insect bites, and minor cuts, look no further than this tea tree oil from local beauty brand Human Nature. It's 100% natural and free from synthetic chemicals and artificial fragrances—perf for those with sensitive skin.
Human Nature Natural Tea Tree Oil, P295, Shopee and Lazada
The Body Shop Tea Tree Daily Solution
If you hate sticky serums, go ahead and add this one from The Body Shop to your cart rn. It's infused with tea tree oil sourced from Kenya, making it a powerful yet gentle way to fight blemishes and reduce redness. It also helps purify your skin, keeping oiliness in check while giving you a clearer and healthier-looking complexion.
The Body Shop Tea Tree Daily Solution, P995, Shopee and Lazada
Lush Tea Tree Water
If you're in the market for a refreshing, no-fuss toner, then you'll love this one from Lush. This mist toner is packed with tea tree oil, grapefruit water, and juniper berry to combat breakouts, balance oil production, and leave your skin feeling fresh AF. You can also spritz it on throughout the day for an instant pick-me-up—perfect for hot, humid days when your skin needs a little extra TLC.
Lush Tea Tree Water, P695, Lush branches nationwide
Follow Cheska on Instagram.
Links are updated regularly and as much as possible, but note that products can run out of stock, discounts can expire, and listed prices can change without prior notice.
For more discounts and deals, check out Cosmopolitan Philippines' exclusive vouchers.
