# The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: Superior fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/oily-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United States.

Brand: [The Body Shop](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/the-body-shop)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best serums for oily skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your oily skin as Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil and Leptospermum Petersonii Tree Oil effectively manage excess sebum and blemishes with their potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory actions.
- Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Oil and Tocopherol further support skin health by providing soothing and antioxidant benefits, complementing the primary acne-fighting ingredients.
- The formula is safe for your skin, containing no harsh ingredients and incorporating soothing agents like Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil Leaf and Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Oil to prevent irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/oily-skin): Superior (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/mature-skin): Low
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil Leaf, Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Oil, Limonene, Citral, Tocopherol

## What the research says

- A topical serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and raspberry leaf cell culture extract improved skin color, elasticity, radiance, smoothness, scaliness, and wrinkles compared to the untreated contralateral side in fifty female volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31975502/))
- Topical 5% tea tree oil gel significantly improved total acne lesions and acne severity index compared to placebo in 60 patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris, showing 3.55 times and 5.75 times greater efficacy respectively. ([Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/))
- Lactobacillus-fermented Chamaecyparis obtusa reduced inflammatory acne lesions by 65.3% compared to 38.2% with tea tree oil in 34 patients over 8 weeks, demonstrating superior efficacy, faster onset, and safety. ([Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25228478/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Tea tree oil nanoemulsion containing adapalene gel demonstrated significantly greater reductions in total, inflammatory, and non-inflammatory acne lesions as well as acne severity index compared to adapalene marketed gel in 100 patients with acne vulgaris over 12 weeks. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34251536/))
- Topical tea tree oil treatment confirmed efficacy on Demodex mite blepharitis across fourteen papers evaluating chronic blepharitis compared to no treatment or alternative management. ([BioMed Research International, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35941981/))
- Weekly treatment with tea tree oil-saturated human amniotic membrane showed superior efficacy in healing pityriasis versicolor lesions and fungicidal activity compared to daily application of 1% tioconazole cream in 120 patients. ([Cell and Tissue Banking, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32162164/))
- Tamanu oil emulsion induced cell proliferation, glycosaminoglycan and collagen production, wound healing activity, and modulated gene expression in human skin cells compared to untreated cells. ([Planta Medica, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27280931/))
- Tamanu oil bigels demonstrated wound-healing and scar-reduction potential with good binding affinity to the TGF-beta1 receptor and better healing properties than a commercial formulation in rats, without causing dermal irritation in rabbits. ([Pharmaceuticals, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38256935/))
- Topical application of tamanu oil accelerated the formation of macrophage-granulation tissues and fibrosis while resulting in less wound contraction compared to normal saline and Centella asiatica in rats with induced wounds. ([Journal of Wound Care, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34597168/))
- Limonene protects immortalized human skin keratinocytes against UVB-induced photodamage and photoaging by increasing cell viability, inhibiting intracellular ROS generation, suppressing alpha-MSH secretion, and preventing depletion of tight junction proteins through activation of the Nrf2-dependent antioxidant defense system. ([Environmental Toxicology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36063024/))
- A novel D-limonene and Gelucire 44/12 based microemulsion formulated with Labrasol and Labrafil M 1944 CS showed high stability, optical transparency, nanometric globule size, and a safe in vivo skin profile on mice ear skin. ([Advanced Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33880349/))
- Topical application of Foeniculum vulgare compounds fenchone and limonene increased wound contraction and re-epithelialization in rats compared to untreated and sham control groups over 10 days. ([Biotechnic & Histochemistry, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28426256/))
- Topical application of 1% citral completely inhibited UVB-induced skin carcinogenesis by reducing oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels while increasing the apoptotic rate in male hairless mice compared to UVB-exposed controls. ([Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology. B, Biology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31374350/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))

## What reviewers say

This product is highly regarded for its effectiveness as a spot treatment for oily and acne-prone skin, with many users reporting that it significantly reduces the size and redness of pimples, often overnight. A notable number of reviews also mention its fast absorption and good value, as a little product goes a long way. Some users experience a pleasant cooling sensation upon application. However, a significant portion of reviews highlight that the product can be excessively drying and may cause irritation or redness, particularly if applied to the entire face or on sensitive skin. The strong, medicinal scent is also frequently mentioned as a drawback.

- Liked: Effective spot treatment (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Quick absorption (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Drying effect (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Overpowering scent (often mentioned)
- Liked: Cooling sensation (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Good value (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Skin irritation (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Natural alternative (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Ineffective for cystic acne (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this serum in your PM routine. Start by applying it 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin. Let it absorb ⏱ for a minute before applying the next product.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive and you want to target oily shine. This helps control excess oil throughout the night.
- Avoid the delicate eye area and do a patch test before using the serum for the very first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil one of the best fits for oily skin?

The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil is an excellent fit because Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil and Leptospermum Petersonii Tree Oil manage excess oil and blemishes while soothing agents help prevent irritation. This formula may improve total acne lesions and severity while supporting overall skin health.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/), [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/)

### Which ingredients make this treatment a good fit for oily skin?

Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil and Leptospermum Petersonii Tree Oil make this treatment a great fit because they effectively manage excess oil and blemishes. Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Oil and Tocopherol also help by soothing the skin and providing extra antioxidant support.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/), [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/)

### What does tea tree oil do for oily skin?

Tea tree oil helps clear up blemishes and calms redness for oily skin. It may reduce breakouts and improve overall skin clarity over time.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/), [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/)

### What does tamanu oil do for oily skin?

Tamanu oil is generally too heavy for oily skin and may clog pores, leading to breakouts. Skin like this needs lightweight, oil-free hydrators with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide to balance moisture without adding excess grease.

### Where does this treatment go in a skincare routine for oily skin?

This treatment goes in your evening routine, after cleansing and before moisturizing, for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. It is a very good fit for your oily skin because tea tree oil helps manage excess oil and blemishes while keeping your skin calm and comfortable.

### Can I use it with benzoyl peroxide, and in what order?

You can use this treatment with benzoyl peroxide, but because both ingredients target blemishes, you should use them at different times or on alternate days to keep your skin calm and prevent dryness. Apply your benzoyl peroxide first if using it as part of a prescribed acne regimen, and use this tea tree oil treatment in your evening routine.

### How often should I use this treatment?

Use this treatment in your evening routine, applying it once a day or a few times a week. It helps manage excess oil and blemishes while keeping your skin calm, and is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/), [Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25228478/)

### Can it clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily skin?

This treatment is unlikely to clog pores or cause purging on oily skin, as it actively helps manage excess oil and blemishes. Reviewers sometimes report a drying effect or skin irritation, so it may feel too strong if your skin is sensitive.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/)

### Is this treatment fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

It contains fragrance (limonene, citral, and citronellol) and drying alcohol (alcohol denat).

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $16.75 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $28.88 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/oily-skin) — High fit — $39.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $15.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — $18.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $30.00 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01H1KBI70?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 4 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Alcohol Denat, Polysorbate 60, Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil Leaf, Limonene, Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Oil, Citral, Citronellol, Leptospermum Petersonii Tree Oil, Denatonium Benzoate, Tocopherol
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/oily-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-body-shop/tea-tree-oil/for/oily-skin