- Tea Tree Oil Zit Rescue
by Acne Specialist
One of the most uses of tea tree
essential oil is in the treatment of skin disorders. Acne is
a very common disease involving the sebaceous glands. It affects
about 90% of men and women at some point during their lives.
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In 1990, one of Australia’s
leading dermatologists carried out an acne study at the Royal
Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney comparing 5% benzoyl peroxide
and 5% tea tree essential oil. Both agents performed equally
as well in reducing the acne, with tea tree oil having a slightly
slower effect. However, comparing the two agents, tea tree oil
had significantly less side
effects, suggesting more frequent application and higher concentration
is possible.
People with acne tend to excrete
more sebaceous lipids onto the surface of the skin than unaffected
people. In combination with normally shed dead skin cells, this
may lead to clogging of the pores. Bacterial (propionibacterium
acnes) infection is another component of acne. A clogged hair
follicle becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. This can result
in redness and puss-filled bumps (the dreaded zit).
Topical treatment is difficult
because the medicine needs to penetrate the skin in sufficient
concentration, and be strong enough not to be inactivated by
the presence of blood and puss. But it also has to be gentle
enough to not cause irritation. Tea tree essential oil dissolves
pus and kills bacteria, leaving the area clean and tissue undamaged. |
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Other interesting uses of
tree tea oil:
- The tea tree has been used
by the Bundjalung Aborigines in Australia for centuries to heal
wounds, burns, and infections.
- The plant has antiseptic properties,
as well as being a germicide, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, immune-boosting,
cleanser/disinfectant. Its oil is unusual in that it is effective
against all three types of infectious organisms: bacteria, viruses
and fungi.
- When applied to cuts, burns
or bruises, it can lessen pain, speed healing and reduce inflammation.
- A few drops can be added to
bath water to soothe tight muscles, and the warm steam can help
to clear congestion from lungs and sinuses.
- Tea tree essential oil is widely
used in massage by aromatherapists to boost the immune system.
- A one percent solution in laundry
water kills dust mites which is a common cause of asthma in many
people.
Tea tree is tolerated by most
when applied directly without the use of a dilutant. Some individuals
may be sensitive to tea tree, so always do a patch test before
using anything new on your body.
Note: tea tree essential oil
can be dangerous if swallowed. As little as 5 ml can be toxic
to a small child, so it’s important to keep it out of reach
of children.
More information on tea tree
can be found from the Australian Tea Tree Industry Association
http://www.teatree.org.au
Good sites for information on
acne treatments:
http://www.acne-specialist.com
http://www.skincare-specialist.com
https://www.acnefighters.com
http://www.skinb5.com |
Beauty Secrets of the World
