Even though tea tree oil has been suspected as an antibacterial agent for some time, a groundbreakings study was conducted in 1990 by I.B. Bassett, which compared tea tree oil to benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of acne.

Tea Tree Oil is As Effective As 5% Benzoyl Peroxide
Results showed that tea tree oil is as effective as a 5% benzoyl peroxide solution. It took longer (6 weeks) for the tea tree oil to be as effective, but participants in the study reported none of the side effects associated with benzoyl peroxide, such as skin peeling, redness, skin irritation, or dry skin.

For Sensitive Skins
Tea tree oil has since become a recognized acne treatment, and is especially recommended for individuals with acne-prone sensitive skin who cannot tolerate the harsh effects of other anti-acne products such as benzoyl peroxide.

In fact, just applying several drops of the oil directly on the acne has shown to be the most effective way to apply tea tree oil.