INCI Name
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
Botanical Name
Melaleuca alternifolia
Tea Tree essential oil is a steam-distilled oil from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia. Rich in terpinen-4-ol and other terpenes, it offers clarifying and purifying support with a fresh, herbaceous aroma. Widely used in serums, cleansers, creams, and scalp care, it is especially valued in formulations for oily and blemish-prone skin.


Fragrance, skin-conditioning agent, clarifying support, antioxidant
Product Type(s):
Typical Usage Range:
0.5–2% in facial care; up to 5% in body care; always dilute
Traditionally valued for its clarifying and purifying properties; provides a fresh, herbaceous aroma and supportive qualities in topical blends
Primary Components:
Terpinen-4-ol, γ-terpinene, α-terpinene, 1,8-cineole, α-terpineol
May cause irritation in sensitive skin; avoid undiluted use; patch test recommended; oxidized oil increases risk of sensitization
Preferred Extraction Method:
Steam-distilled
Choose steam-distilled, cosmetic-grade; ensure terpinen-4-ol content ≥35% and 1,8-cineole ≤10%; store in dark glass to prevent oxidation
Explore additional safety and regulatory data from trusted external sources:
*The ingredient details on this page are intended for general educational use and should not be considered exhaustive. Additional properties, uses, or safety considerations may be available from other sources. Root & Ritual Apothecary is not affiliated with Cosmetics Info, Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), INCIDecoder, SkinSafe, EWG Skin Deep, or SpecialChem. External links are provided solely for informational purposes; Root & Ritual does not control or guarantee the accuracy, methodology, or conclusions of third-party sources, including consumer rating systems such as EWG.
Tea Tree Essential Oil
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