Acne? Get TTO.

 

Acne is the most common problem that affects humanity. The prevalence of acne was 85% in the 12-24 year age group in the US census conducted in 1996!
Acne might seem a trivial issue to some, but it actually affects mental health (anxiety and depression), self- esteem, confidence, social interactions and employment problems even in its mildest forms!
Over the years, there have been  many topical solutions and antibiotics formulated to target the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes, but they are becoming less effective with time probably because of the emergence of resistant strains.
The search continues to find the effective remedy to combat acne.
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TEA TREE OIL 

Tea Tree Oil has been shown to have broadspectrum antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. This volatile essential oil is derived mainly from the Australian native plant Melaleuca alternifolia and has been used since centuries by the Aborigines!

A clinical trial conducted in 2007 concluded that :"Topical 5% tea tree oil is an effective treatment for mild to moderate acne vulgaris". The low and minimal side-effects of TTO treatment render it as a suitable treatment option for mild to moderate acne vulgaris.*

 Another study showed that both "5% tea-tree oil and 5% benzoyl peroxide had a significant effect in ameliorating the patients' acne by reducing the number of inflamed and non-inflamed lesions (open and closed comedones), although the onset of action in the case of tea-tree oil was slower. Encouragingly, fewer side effects were experienced by patients treated with tea-tree oil." *

Uses of TTO:

(Use as a topical application, gargle or steam inhalation with hot water, not to be swallowed! )

• bacterial and fungal skin ailments: Oily skin, acne, abscess, blisters, sun burns, athlete's foot, insect bites, rashes, dandruff and other minor wounds and irritations. 
• respiratory problems ranging from common sore throats, coughs and runny nose and may help in  severe conditions such as asthma, tuberculosis, and bronchitis.
• Viral infections: chicken pox, shingles and measles, flu, cold sores and verrucae/warts
•  strengthens the body's immune system
• Used in mouth washes as it combats oral candidiasis.
• Used to treat lice

Precautions:

• pregnant and breast feeding women must avoid TTO
• May cause redness, irritation, itching on sensitive skin so dilute it with olive oil or any other oil base if you have sensitive skin!
• should not used near eyes, genitals
• dilute well before using as a mouthwash
• DO NOT CONSUME TTO! can lead to diarrhea, impaired immune function, drowsiness and Coma!

 My Favorite Tea Tree Oil products:

THE BODY SHOP TEA TREE PORE MINIMIZER

 

LUSH TEA TREE WATER TONER

THURSDAY PLANTATION TEA TREE OIL ANTISEPTIC

THE BODY SHOP TEA TREE PORE MINIMIZER -

• clear lotion like consistency
• applies smoothly - has a matte finish- really seals those open pores!
• has a minty strong fragrance which might be a little overwhelming at first.
• can be used as primer before Makeup.
• Available at all Body Shop outlets. (7.6 OMR)

 

LUSH TEA TREE WATER TONER

• Contains tea tree water (tea tree oil is dispersed in water)  dissolved in grapefruit water
• Particularly effective for oily, combination or blemish-prone skin
• alcohol free
• Spray directly on the face (with eyes closed!) after cleansing skin. To tighten pores, let the toner air dry. 
• It also helps combat the drying effects of airplane travel and air-conditioned offices.
• not only a toner, but is aromatherapy in dilution. 
• Available on lushusa.com for 21.95$

 THURSDAY PLANTATION TEA TREE OIL ANTISEPTIC

• 100% pure tea tree oil
• Its my go -to product in those Acne emergencies!
• To be used as an antiseptic on minor cuts, wounds, abrasions, pimples, bites and stings
• Treats fungal infections such as athlete’s foot and nail infection
• Has demonstrated to be as effective as Benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of mild to moderate acne*
• Cleaning: Kills 99.9% household germs

I really love TTO! It works magically in zapping those pimples which appear out of the blue at the wrong times!
Have any of you used Tea Tree oil? What products did you use? Post your comments/suggestions in the comment box!


Until Next time, take care ladies
Zara

Reference Researches*:

• Enshaeih S, Jooya A, Siadat AH. The efficacy of 5% topical tea tree oil gel in mild to moderate acne vulgaris: A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study. IJDVL 2007;73-1; 22-25.

Bassett IB, Pannowitz DL, Barnetson RS. A comparative study of tea-tree oil versus benzoylperoxide in the treatment of acne. Med J Aust 1990;153:455-8

 First picture is from www.brighthealing.com!