ZENMED Cosmetics

If you are looking for a natural topical product for acne, you might want to research tea tree oil. The Australian punk tree produces a compound called terpinen-4-ol that is known to be an effective antiseptic.The essential oil is extracted by steam from the leaves and twigs.It has been used for hundreds of years for it’s healing benefits and the germicidal and anti-bacterial properties of this plant are well documented.

Tea tree oil has been shown that it can hinder and destroy microbes.It is speculated that because it can kill bacteria, it may help reduce acne by destroying Propionibacterium acnes, a bacteria that is associated with acne.This bacteria is very common and is usually not a problem. It’s when the pores of the skin get plugged up with excess oils,that P.acnes can inflame the skin causing acne to form.

Tea tree oil is found in many skin care products. I have tried one product that contained 5% benzoyl peroxide with tea tree oil. It did work well when I applied it at bedtime. In the morning I use a product containing alpha hydroxy acid to get rid of dead skin cell.It is helpful if you can keep excess oils and dead skin cells from plugging up hair follicles.

Many people will say they can’t stand the smell of tea tree oil. It reminds me of turpentine. It is quite strong. Not all tea tree products smell bad, some smell like camphor antiseptics or cleansers. Remember to use a clean pillow case every night. Old tea tree oil on a pillow won’t help your acne problem.

When you first use the tea tree oil, it can cause dryness and irritation. If you bought it full strength, it should be diluted with water to about five percent strength before applying directly on the blemish or lesion. Pure tea tree oil is strong enough to cause severe skin irritations. You can use a small shot glass or a Dixie cup of water to mix in 3 or 4 drops of pure tea tree oil. Don’t dilute it too much as there is the risk that it won’t kill the bacteria and possibly cause the P.acnes bacteria to become resistant to treatment. Follow the package instructions carefully.

Some people can have allergic reactions to some of these products. Safety should be your first concern. Keep this stuff away from pets and children. It is toxic if swallowed! If your using any OTC product including tea tree oil for acne, and it is not helping,the best thing you can do is see a dermatologist as soon as possible. Don’t keep trying every new product that comes along. Chronic acne left untreated properly, can lead to scarring and sometimes even affect a person mental state.There are different kinds of acne and they require different types of treatment.Using the wrong product or using it improperly can make acne worse. In fact, I would not recommend using any topical treatment (including tea tree oil) before consulting a certified dermatologist.