What Can You Mix With Tea Tree Oil?

On its own, tea tree oil is one of the most beneficial essential oils. It contains a number of compounds, including a certain type of terpinene, which is capable of killing bacteria, fungi and viruses. These germ-fighting properties make tea tree oil an ideal remedy for treating skin and hair conditions and promoting healing.

We know that tea tree oil can be incredibly effective when used alone. But what about if you combine tea tree oil with another ingredient?

This guide will look at some of the most common ingredients that you may want to mix with tea tree oil, and whether it is safe to do so.

Can You Use Tea Tree Oil With Benzoyl Peroxide?

You may see some articles discussing using tea tree oil and benzoyl peroxide, especially for treating acne. However, it’s generally recommended that you don’t mix these two active ingredients, as it may cause a skin reaction.

There is no evidence to suggest that benzoyl peroxide offers anything better than tea tree oil, or that combining both ingredients will prove any more beneficial than using one or the other alone.

Can You Use Tea Tree Oil With Tretinoin?

No. Again, if you’re already using tretinoin on your skin as an acne treatment, you shouldn’t combine this with tea tree oil. When used together, these ingredients pose a high risk of skin inflammation.

Can You Use Tea Tree Oil With Hyaluronic Acid?

Yes – but proceed with caution. Some dermatologists say that adding a couple of drops of tea tree oil to a hyaluronic acid product will have extra acne-fighting benefits, but it’s important not to add too much oil.

Try out tea tree oil mixed with a couple of drops of carrier oil on your skin before adding it to another product. If your skin reacts badly to the oil, you shouldn’t use it in combination with hyaluronic acid.

Can You Use Tea Tree Oil With Differin?

If your skin is very sensitive, using tea tree oil with differin is not recommended. Differin is a relatively aggressive ingredient, and so is tea tree oil. Using them both, therefore, is irrelevant, and may damage your skin.

Can You Use Tea Tree Oil With Azelaic Acid?

While you can combine azelaic acid with soothing and brightening ingredients, most dermatologists would warn you against combining it with tea tree oil. There’s not enough information about the safety of using these ingredients in combination. Speak to a medical professional if you’re unsure.

Can You Use Tea Tree Oil With Niacinamide?

Yes, you can combine tea tree oil with niacinamide to reduce skin redness and inflammation. The skin-soothing and pore-tightening properties of both ingredients make them an effective remedy for treating acne.

Can You Use Tea Tree Oil With Vitamin C?

It’s not advisable to use vitamin C and tea tree oil together as inflammation is a likely side effect. A safer alternative is to apply vitamin C to your skin, then allow it to fully absorb into your skin before applying tea tree oil.

Can You Use Tea Tree Oil With BHA?

While you shouldn’t mix BHA with other exfoliants like retinol, it can be safely combined with some essential oils, including tea tree oil. Try mixing a very small amount of retinol and tea tree oil with a carrier oil and applying to the skin on the back of your hand. If no reaction occurs, ease in with a small amount on your face before doing a full application.

Can You Use Tea Tree Oil With Retin-A?

You shouldn’t use tea tree oil with retin-A. The effects of both of these ingredients together are likely to cause skin redness, inflammation, and even a rash. Stick to one or the other in this case.

In Summary

Tea tree oil is an incredibly potent essential oil, which means it may cause irritation when combined with other potent ingredients that are often used to treat acne and other skin issues. You should treat this article as a guide only. Consult your doctor if you’re currently following a treatment plan for your acne and you’re not sure whether you should use tea tree oil alongside other products.