Tea tree soap has become a recognizable global commodity, which is an effective natural part of today's skincare routine. Tea tree oil is derived from the Melaleuca alternifolia, an Australia native plant, which is commonly called tea tree. Tea tree oil is thought to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties. Due to these unique properties, tea tree oil is an exceptional additive in soap bases, meaning it would have special benefits with washing the face, particularly with oily skin, acne, and skin irritants.
This ultimate guide will explain everything you need to know about using tea tree soap for your face. We will look at the evidence or science-based benefits, application, safety, tea tree soap vs. other cleansers, and creative ways to incorporate it into your day to day skincare routine.
What Is Tea Tree Soap?
Tea tree soap is a cleansing agent that has tea tree essential oil as an ingredient. In contrast to a cleanser that uses synthetic ingredients, tea tree soap uses the die-cut method of Soap With Tea Tree, which permits the use of natural antimicrobial properties. You have many options in the way of commercial and hand-held soap products (all types) as a bar or face washing liquid. In general tea tree is produced in a dilution from 2% - 5%, which is an acceptable dilution for most skin (Humblebee & Me). Either way, at concentrations of 2-5% the tea tree oil gives the user the benefits of being antibacterial while presenting a low relative risk for skin irritation.
How Tea Tree Soap Works on the Face
Tea tree soap has efficacy for dealing with a range of facial skincare issues:
Antibacterial action: Active compounds such as terpinen-4-ol is shown to kill the Cutibacterium acnes (the bacteria that causes facial breakouts) (PMC).
Anti-inflammatory and anti-redness actions: The unique anti-inflammatory and redness properties of tea tree soap decrease redness and reduce swelling. Because of this feature, the use of tea tree soap for washing the face provides rapid-relief for inflamed pimples or paresis.
Antifungal action: Assists in treating and controlling fungal skin conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis.
Oil regulation: Modifies the skins oil number yields, hence is good for oily and combination skin.
Deep cleansing: Assists in removing excess oil, dirt, and clogs follicles.
Scientific Evidence for Tea Tree Soap on the Face
Regardless of the facial skincare issue, the number of studies supporting tea tree oil soap for face and skin health is increasing. One study found tea tree oil produced a statistically significant decrease in the total number of acne lesions compared to control (PMC) A meta-analysis concluded tea tree oil possesses oxidative and antimicrobial activity which protect the skin from environmental stresses (PMC). The tea tree oil may be useful for mild-moderate acne, but should be used cautiously for very sensitive skin.
Benefit of Tea Tree Soap for Daily Skin Care
Using tea tree soap for facial cleansing has many implications and can benefit a number of skin types and concerns.
Fights Acne
Tea tree oil helps to target the bacteria that causes acne, and also aids in reducing the level of inflammation in acne lesions that can be caused by cysts or any number of inflammatory pillow-like bumps. This is why tea tree soap is well known for its acne fighting capabilities.
Oil Control
Tea tree soap regularly can help to control oil, and can help with issues like clogged pores and daytime shine.
Soothing
Tea tree soap has soothing properties that can help with minimizing instances of redness caused by irritation. This is especially useful for individuals that may be experiencing inflamed breakouts or low-grade dermatitis.
Antifungal Protection
Tea tree oil has antifungal activity, and may come in handy in treating any possible fungal acne, or may be appropriate for treating dandruff when used in a face cleansing routine.
Natural & Gentle
Again tea tree soap that comes from reputable makers does not use parabens or sulfates, making it a natural and gentle method of cleansing your face that is free of harsh chemicals.
How to Use Tea Tree Soap for the Face
Wet your face with lukewarm water.
Use the soap in a gentle circular motion around your face avoiding the eye area.
Safety and Precautions
You should always patch test tea tree soap before using it on your face.
Do not use it on exposed skin eczema, or hyper-sensitive skin.
Do not use undiluted tea tree oil on your skin.
You want soaps that are balanced in pH so as not to disrupt your skin barrier.
Comparisons of Tea Tree Soap to Other Cleansers
Traditional soaps have very high pH that disrupt your skin barrier as it shows signs of dryness, while syndet (synthetic detergent) cleansers have a more skin friendly pH that is less irritating (DermNet NZ). Tea tree soap allows you a natural option, although, you would prefer a soap that has skin's natural ph. Check product labels and consider using a gentler soap.
Conclusion
Make sure you choose your tea tree soap based on your individual sensitivity and pH balance when using. Using tea tree soap, moisturizer, and sunscreen from tatanabeauty will deliver clean, balanced skin in the most natural way. If you want to understand more about skin-care actions, check our guide on the best facial cleansers & our ingredient spotlight about tea tree oil.
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FAQs
Is tea tree soap good for acne?
Yes, and not only removes acne lesions, but decreases inflammation.
Can I use tea tree soap everyday?
Most can use soap 1-2 times a day. People with sensitive skin should use less.
Does tea tree soap dry out your skin?
If overused, yes. Always use moisturizer after you clean your skin.
Is there tea tree soap good for sensitive skin?
Not always. You should patch test and consult your dermatologist if you have any irritation.