active · fragrance

Tea Tree Oil

Watch if sensitive·Strong evidence·INCI: Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil

Tea tree oil is used for its antimicrobial reputation in blemish-focused products, but it is a genuine, well-documented contact sensitizer, and its allergy potential rises sharply once the oil has oxidized from air exposure. Fresh, well-preserved, low-concentration formulations are much lower risk than old or improperly stored oil.

Worth knowing

EU-labelled fragrance allergen
Known contact sensitizer for some
Can irritate, especially left on

Gentler alternatives

References

CIR: Safety Assessment of Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree)-Derived Ingredients as Used in Cosmetics ↗

Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. A verdict is a reading of the published evidence, never a guarantee for your skin: any ingredient can irritate someone, so patch test new products and see a professional if you react. Concern is graded on cited evidence, never on hazard-score lists. See how we score.