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MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA LEAF EXTRACT

Last update on Jan 16, 2026

Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract is commonly known as tea tree leaf extract. It is a natural botanical derived from the leaves of the tea tree plant native to Australia. Rich in bioactive compounds including terpinen-4-ol precursors, polyphenols, and flavonoids, it offers purifying, soothing, and conditioning benefits. This extract is popular in formulations for acne-prone, oily, or irritated skin. It is found in products such as cleansers, toners, spot treatments, masks, and scalp care products, where it helps balance sebum, calm inflammation, and promote clearer, healthier-looking skin.

CAS Number: 85085-48-9Chem/IUPAC Name: Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf ExtractEINECS/ELINCS No: 285-377-1COSING REF No: 78000

Products with MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA LEAF EXTRACT

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Herbal Extract Tea Tree EO

by Peter Jarvis

INCI: MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA LEAF EXTRACT

Herbal Extract Teatree EG

by Peter Jarvis

INCI: MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA LEAF EXTRACT

Tea Tree Oil Australian

by Berjé

INCI: MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA LEAF EXTRACT

What is MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA LEAF EXTRACT used for?

  • Skin conditioning: Maintains skin in good condition and reduces dryness or flaking. Frequently used in moisturizers, creams, and lotions for improved suppleness and barrier support.
  • Soothing & anti-inflammatory: Calms redness and irritation from environmental stressors or blemishes. Ideal for sensitive skin products, after-shave balms, and post-acne treatments.
  • Antimicrobial support: Aids in reducing microbial activity on skin and scalp. Common in acne gels, purifying masks, shampoos, and scalp tonics for clearer complexion and balanced scalp health.

Origin

Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract is sourced from the leaves of the tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), a shrub native to southeast Queensland and northeast New South Wales, Australia. Leaves are harvested from cultivated or wild plants, dried, and extracted using water, glycerin, or glycol solvents to concentrate beneficial compounds. This gentle maceration process preserves the extract's natural properties, yielding a liquid form compatible with natural and organic cosmetic formulations.

What does MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA LEAF EXTRACT do in a formulation?

SKIN CONDITIONING|
PERFUMING|
SOOTHING|
ANTIMICROBIAL|
HAIR CONDITIONING

Safety Profile

Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract is considered safe for cosmetic use, with a low hazard rating from EWG (typically 1) and minimal concerns for irritation or sensitization at typical concentrations (0.1-5%). The CIR Expert Panel has assessed related tea tree-derived ingredients as safe when properly formulated. It is well-tolerated across skin types, though rare allergic reactions may occur (especially in those sensitive to tea tree). Patch testing is recommended for sensitive individuals. The EU COSING database approves it for skin conditioning functions in rinse-off and leave-on products.

MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA LEAF EXTRACT technical profile

PropertyValues
pH4.0 - 7.0
SolubilitySoluble in water and glycols
ViscosityLow

Formulations with MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA LEAF EXTRACT

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