Tea Tree Oil

Taking cues from the balm cleansers that have been attracting a lot of attention as of recent, one of which I reviewed here, I altered my skin care regimen a smidgen by adding a dab of tea tree oil to my face cleanser.  I wasn't sure how it would turn out, but I must say that my skin has responded in a positive way to the change.

Tea tree oil is well known for its anti-fungal, antiseptic properties and has been incorporated into a wealth of items, including hair products and foot creams.  It is an extract from a plant native to Australia, can range in color from pale yellow to clear and generally has a strong, eucalyptus/peppermint-like smell to it.  For my interests, I bought a clear version that's also been combined with the moisturizing, anti-oxidant Vitamin E.

And so my new, nighttime regimen consists of working a squirt of my Boscia face wash all over my face then adding a drop of the tea tree oil on a linen cloth and scrubbing any problem area with the wash/oil blend.  Now, I've only done this once a week because of my skin being so hypersensitive to things and all, but I've had no allergic breakouts or rashes and my face seems to be liking the recipe.  With the combination of my St. Ives scrub in the morning, I've noticed that the oil has worked harmoniously in keeping small sprouts of would-be pimples at bay and in helping to fade residual blemishes more quickly.  And the added Vitamin E helps in keeping my skin feeling supple after applying.

I'm liking this mix and may up its rotation to, perhaps, two times a week.  But we'll see.  I'm glad it comes in a small bottle too because, along with my other travel-sized products, I'll be able to stay on course where ever I go.

So, if you're still looking to find a suitable skin care system, especially if you have a problem with breakouts, you may want to look into the benefits of tea tree oil.  It works well on a myriad of skin ailments and maladies, but can be a little strong for some so please be sure to test that it won't cause an allergic reaction to your skin beforehand.  Also, when in use, be sure to keep your hands away from any mucus linings on your face/body, especially your eyes and mouth, as it can cause severe burning and is toxic if ingested.  Other than those caveats, I think tea tree is a pretty handy oil to have in your beauty repertoire.