Tea tree oil as a natural rosacea treatment
If you suffer from the embarrassing facial skin condition called rosacea, then try all-natural tea tree oil as an alternative to chemical based products.
Tea tree oil has strong anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the symptoms of rosacea naturally.
So what is rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic disorder that is mainly focused on the facial skin. Typically it begins any time after age 30 and appears as redness on the nose, forehead, cheeks and chin – it can also occur on the chest, neck, scalp or ears.
As time passes, the redness tends to become more persistent and ‘ruddy’ in colour, with visible blood vessels appearing. If not treated properly, pimples and bumps will often occur – in severe cases the nose may grow swollen and appear ‘bumpy’ from excess tissue. A lot of rosacea patients will also report that eyes are irritated, either appearing water or bloodshot.
Individuals with fair skin (or who tend to flush easily) are at greater risk of being affected by rosacea. Whilst the exact cause is unknown and there is currently no cure, treatment and therapy is available to help reverse the symptoms.
What are the symptoms of rosacea?
The most common signs of rosacea are:-
• persistent facial redness
• flushing
• pimples or bumps
• small, solid, red coloured bumps
• pus-filled pimples
• visible blood vessels
• eye irritation – either watery or bloodshot
• burning or stinging eyes
• dry facial skin
• raised red patches
• facial swelling
Does tea tree oil work as a rosacea treatment?
Tea tree oil is distilled from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree which is native to Australia. The oil possesses antifungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, so it’s the ideal natural treatment for skin conditions such as rosacea papules and pustules.
Tea tree oil will help to lessen any redness and swelling of the facial skin associated with rosacea.
How to use tea tree oil for rosacea
First of all, buy a bottle of 100% pure essential tea tree oil – you’ll find it at most health food stores, pharmacies and even some department stores.
• Take one part tea tree oil and combine with ten parts of water.
• Dip a cotton ball into this solution and dab gently onto your face, being careful not to rub.
• Repeat this process at least 2-3 times a day.
Using tea tree oil in a cream or lotion for natural rosacea treatment
Another way of using tea tree oil for rosacea is to make your own cream or lotion and apply it to the areas affected by rosacea.
• Take one part tea tree oil and mix with ten parts of your regular lotion or cream.
• Apply gently to the affected area, being careful to apply gently as rubbing will irritate the skin.
Caution with using tea tree oil for treating rosacea
As with anything you try that’s new, always be aware of any potential reaction to tea tree oil. It has been known to cause irritation or an allergic reaction in some people – possible side effects include contact dermatitis, redness or swelling.
It’s a good idea to do a patch test first – simply apply a few drops of pure tea tree oil to the inside of your arm and wait 24 hours, monitoring for any possible reaction.
