Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract
Water-alcohol extract of tea tree leaves – a milder form than the essential oil. Antimicrobial action against Cutibacterium acnes. Pregnancy-safe.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Antimicrobial and anti-acne action clinically confirmed.
- Hammer KA et al. Int J Antimicrob Agents. 2008;32(2):170-3. PMID 18571379
- Enshaieh S et al. Tea tree oil gel in mild-moderate acne RCT. Indian J Dermatol 2007;73:22-25. PMID 17314442
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Combination, Oily
- Use with caution
- Sensitive
About this ingredient
Melaleuca alternifolia leaf extract is a water or glycol extract, unlike the concentrated essential oil (Tea Tree Oil). INCI: Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Extract. Contains terpinen-4-ol at lower concentrations than the oil. In cosmetics it is used in products for problem and combination skin. Antimicrobial action against Cutibacterium acnes (acne bacteria) is clinically confirmed for tinctures and essential oil. The extract is milder than the oil with lower irritation risk. Use levels run from 0.5 to 3%. Pregnancy safety. Skin absorption into the systemic circulation is minimal. Unlike the essential oil at high concentrations, the extract is safe. Skin profile. Low to moderate irritation potential. Low allergen risk for the extract (higher for the oil). Non-comedogenic. Suitable for oily and problem skin. Evidence B (through oil data).
Frequently asked questions
Is Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract safe during pregnancy?
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract for?
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract suits: normal, combination, oily. Use with caution in: sensitive.
What is Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract and what does it do in cosmetics?
Water-alcohol extract of tea tree leaves – a milder form than the essential oil.
Is Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract?
The INCI name is Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Extract. It may also appear as: Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract, Tea Tree Extract.
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