Dermatology patients and skin care aficionados are always looking for natural approaches to treat their skin ailments and woes. Tea Tree Oil has been reported to offer the skin an array of benefits, from wound care to ring worm treatments, even acne remedies. But what do we truly know about this skin save all?
“As with many natural remedies, Tea Tree Oil has been reported to benefit a number of patients that suffer from disorders of their hair, skin and nails,” says Dr. Miriam Hanson, a board-certified Dermatologist at Sanova Dermatology in Austin, Texas. Similar to Apple Cider Vinegar, another popular natural skin remedy, Tea Tree Oil has disinfectant properties. “Many patient report that it can help dry out blackheads and treat acne breakouts.” It has been used to treat other infections and infestations, such as toenail fungus, and even lice.
Something to Sink Your Roots Into
Tea Tree Oil has been reported to offer the scalp relief when it comes to excessive dry skin and flakiness. “Many patients with dandruff will try shampoos with Tea Tree Oil as a primary ingredient.” says Dr. Hanson. “I’m always happy when my patients find a regimen, prescription, over the counter, or natural, that helps their skin condition and makes them more comfortable.”
Cure All?
Tea Tree Oil’s antiseptic properties have made it a ‘natural’ option for many when caring for cuts and scrapes. Others have purported its benefits for bug bites, Staph infections, impetigo, even thrush. Reports of using Tea Tree Oil in more chronic skin conditions like like psoriasis and eczema can also be found. However, Dr. Hanson advises patients speak to their dermatologist if they are not seeing the results they are looking for. “With chronic skin conditions, patient can get frustrated and discouraged if they don’t see the results they’re looking for,” explains Dr. Hanson. “Individualizing treatments and often combing therapies can be extremely effective for these diseases.”
Tea Tree Oil may be a good option for those looking for a natural way to combat daily skin issues and irritations, but there are also reports of adverse reactions with this compound.
Too Much Of A Good Thing?
Tea Tree Oil can be quite harsh in some patients. “As with any medication, natural or not, there are adverse reactions reported,” says Dr. Hanson. Sensitive-skinned patients can experience irritation and, in high concentrations, the oil is known for triggering unwanted responses in the skin. As well, Tea Tree Oil can induce allergic contact dermatitis in susceptible patients.
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