Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil (Tea Tree Oil)
MEL-uh-LOO-kuh all-ter-nih-FOH-lee-uh
INCI: Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil
What Is Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil (Tea Tree Oil)?
Tea Tree Oil is a potent essential oil steam-distilled from the leaves of the Australian tea tree. It has well-documented antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Tea tree oil is one of the most studied essential oils and is a popular active ingredient in scalp treatment and anti-dandruff products.
Source: Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) leaves, native to Australia
Origin: Natural
Also known as: Tea Tree Oil, TTO, Melaleuca Oil
What Does Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil (Tea Tree Oil) Do to Your Hair?
Tea Tree Oil combats the fungi (Malassezia) and bacteria that contribute to dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and scalp irritation. Its terpinen-4-ol content provides the primary antimicrobial activity. It penetrates the scalp to reduce inflammation, unclog follicles, and promote a healthy scalp environment for hair growth.
Best For
Dandruff-prone scalp, oily scalp, itchy scalp, fungal scalp conditions
Not Recommended For
Sensitive scalp (if used undiluted), dry hair, very young children
Concentration Matters
0.5-5%
Hair Type Compatibility
Method Compatibility
Safety & Regulation
Must always be diluted before use — undiluted tea tree oil can cause chemical burns and severe skin irritation. Safe at concentrations of 1-5% for most adults. Can cause allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Toxic if ingested. Not recommended for children under age 6.
FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe
FDA does not regulate essential oils specifically. Tea tree oil is used in OTC products but has no specific FDA monograph. Recognized as an effective antimicrobial in dermatological literature.
EWG Score: 3/10
HairAide Verdict
Tea Tree Oil is a proven, effective ingredient for scalp health issues. HairAide recommends it for anyone dealing with dandruff, itchy scalp, or excess oiliness. The critical rule is to never use it undiluted — always in a formulated product or diluted with a carrier oil. It is a treat-the-scalp ingredient, not a condition-the-hair ingredient.
Products That Contain Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil (Tea Tree Oil)
Anti-dandruff shampoos, scalp treatments, clarifying shampoos, scalp serums
Alternatives to Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil (Tea Tree Oil)
If you want to avoid Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil (Tea Tree Oil), look for products with these ingredients instead:
Rosemary Oil, Peppermint Oil, Neem Oil, Salicylic Acid
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil (Tea Tree Oil) has a safety rating of 7/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Must always be diluted before use — undiluted tea tree oil can cause chemical burns and severe skin irritation. Safe at concentrations of 1-5% for most adults. Can cause allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Toxic if ingested. Not recommended for children under age 6.
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil (Tea Tree Oil) is CG-method approved and is generally considered safe for curly hair.
Yes, Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil (Tea Tree Oil) is approved for the Curly Girl method.
Some alternatives to Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil (Tea Tree Oil) include: Rosemary Oil, Peppermint Oil, Neem Oil, Salicylic Acid
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