Ingredient · dataset v56

Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil and fungal acne

Antifungal · known to help

Why it's known to help

The one botanical here with Malassezia-specific evidence behind it: a randomized trial of 5% tea tree shampoo improved dandruff (a Malassezia-driven condition), and lab tests show activity against Malassezia yeast itself.

Real but limited: one dandruff RCT plus lab data. It is a variable essential oil (terpinen-4-ol and friends differ by batch) and it can irritate and sensitize skin, especially concentrated — never a gentle default.

Evidence strength

Strength 1/3

Function

Antifungal

Also listed as

Tea Tree Oil, Tea Tree Leaf Oil, Tea Tree Essential Oil

Related antifungal

Sources

Last reviewed: 2026-10-13 (dataset v56).

Questions

Does Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil help with fungal acne?

It is known to help: The one botanical here with Malassezia-specific evidence behind it: a randomized trial of 5% tea tree shampoo improved dandruff (a Malassezia-driven condition), and lab tests show activity against the yeast itself. It is commonly used against Malassezia — that is not a claim that any product treats or cures anything.

Does Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil feed Malassezia?

No: Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil is known to help against Malassezia, not feed it. That is not a claim that any product treats or cures anything.

Is this medical advice?

No. We screen ingredient lists; we never diagnose, treat, or certify products. When in doubt, ask a dermatologist.

Check a full list containing Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil →

Not medical advice: we screen ingredient lists for potential triggers — we never diagnose, treat, or certify products. Dataset v56.