Tea tree oil + Geothermal water

Allopathic
Indications

Tea Tree Oil + Geothermal Water is used topically for a variety of dermatological and cosmetic conditions due to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties. Its indications include:

Approved and Common Uses:

  • Acne vulgaris: Mild to moderate acne treatment due to antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activity.
  • Seborrheic dermatitis: Helps reduce flaking, redness, and irritation.
  • Atopic dermatitis (eczema): Soothes itch and improves skin barrier function.
  • Contact dermatitis: Alleviates allergic or irritant-induced skin inflammation.
  • Fungal skin infections: Including athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), ringworm (tinea corporis), and candidiasis.
  • Minor cuts, abrasions, and insect bites: For antiseptic cleansing and reducing inflammation.
  • Rosacea (adjunctive): Soothing effect from geothermal water may help calm flushing.
  • Sunburn or thermal skin irritation: Cooling, anti-inflammatory effect helps restore comfort and hydration.
  • Sensitive skin care / Post-procedure recovery (laser, peeling): Used in dermatological cosmetics to calm and repair the skin barrier.
Dosage & Administration

Adults:

  • Apply a thin layer 1–3 times daily to the affected area.
  • Clean and dry the area before application.
  • Do not use on broken skin unless directed by a healthcare provider.

Pediatrics:

  • Safe for children over 12 years under supervision.
  • For children under 12, use with medical advice.

Elderly:

  • No specific dose adjustment is necessary.
  • Monitor for skin dryness or irritation.

Special Populations:

  • Renal/Hepatic impairment: Topical use only; systemic absorption negligible—no dose adjustment required.
  • Pregnancy/Lactation: Use with caution (see section 5).

Administration Route:

  • Topical use only.
  • Avoid eye, mucous membrane, and internal use.

Duration of Use:

  • Short-term for acute conditions (e.g., acne flare, minor cuts): 7–10 days.
  • Long-term for chronic issues (e.g., seborrheic dermatitis): Intermittent or as prescribed.
Mechanism of Action (MOA)

Tea Tree Oil contains active compounds such as terpinen-4-ol, which exert antimicrobial effects by disrupting microbial cell membranes and inhibiting bacterial and fungal growth. It also reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines, providing an anti-inflammatory benefit. Geothermal Water, rich in minerals like selenium, calcium, and bicarbonate, enhances skin barrier repair, reduces oxidative stress, and soothes irritation. Together, they act synergistically to cleanse, protect, and calm inflamed or damaged skin.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

  • Topical application leads to minimal systemic absorption.
  • Terpinen-4-ol may be absorbed in small amounts through the skin.

Distribution:

  • Localized to the skin layers where applied.

Metabolism:

  • Metabolized locally by skin enzymes; negligible hepatic metabolism due to low systemic absorption.

Excretion:

  • Minimal renal or biliary excretion.

Onset of Action:

  • Initial soothing effect within 15–30 minutes.
  • Visible dermatological improvement in 3–7 days depending on condition.

Half-life:

  • Not clinically relevant for topical application.
Pregnancy Category & Lactation

Pregnancy:

  • No formal FDA pregnancy category.
  • Animal studies are limited; use only if benefits outweigh risks.
  • Avoid applying to large areas or under occlusion.

Lactation:

  • Unknown if excreted in human milk.
  • Use caution; avoid breast area to prevent infant exposure.
Therapeutic Class
  • Topical Antiseptic and Anti-inflammatory Agent
  • Cosmeceutical / Dermocosmetic product
  • Botanical-based dermatologic therapy
Contraindications
  • Known hypersensitivity or allergy to tea tree oil, geothermal water, or formulation excipients
  • Broken, open, or severely damaged skin (unless supervised)
  • History of contact dermatitis to essential oils
  • Infants under 6 months (without clinical supervision)
Warnings & Precautions
  • For external use only. Do not ingest.
  • Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
  • Discontinue use if rash, burning, or worsening of condition occurs.
  • Use with caution in people with sensitive or eczema-prone skin.
  • May cause allergic reaction in individuals sensitive to essential oils.
  • Patch test is recommended before first use.
  • Do not use under occlusion or on large surface areas for prolonged periods.
  • Not a substitute for prescription antifungals or antibiotics in severe infections.
Side Effects

Common:

  • Mild skin irritation or redness
  • Dryness or flaking
  • Burning or tingling sensation upon application

Less Common:

  • Contact dermatitis
  • Itching (especially in sensitive skin)
  • Photosensitivity

Rare but Serious:

  • Allergic reaction (rash, swelling, hives)
  • Anaphylaxis (very rare)

Timing of Onset:

  • Usually occurs within the first 1–3 days of use
  • Side effects often subside upon discontinuation

Dose-Dependence:

  • More likely with high concentrations of tea tree oil (>5%) or overuse
Drug Interactions
  • Topical corticosteroids: May cause skin irritation or counteract anti-inflammatory effects.
  • Retinoids (topical): Combined use may increase dryness or irritation.
  • Other essential oils or botanical actives: Risk of additive irritation or allergy.
  • No known CYP450-related systemic interactions due to minimal absorption.
Recent Updates or Guidelines
  • Growing inclusion of geothermal water-based formulations in sensitive skin and eczema care lines by dermatological brands.
  • Tea tree oil is now listed in several dermatology associations as a recognized adjunctive option for acne and fungal skin infections.
  • Guidelines stress cautious use in children and patch testing due to allergenic potential of essential oils.
Storage Conditions
  • Store at 20°C to 25°C; excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C
  • Protect from direct sunlight and heat
  • Keep container tightly closed
  • Do not refrigerate unless specifically advised
  • Shake well if emulsion or suspension-based
  • Do not freeze