Skin Purifying Tea Tree Serum
Skin Purifying Tea Tree Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, water-type serum powered by 70.1% Tea Tree Extract to calm breakouts, control excess sebum, and soothe irritated skin. Enriched with Centella Asiatica, Heartleaf, Green Tea, and Hyaluronic Acid for hydrated, clear, and balanced skin.
70.1% Tea Tree Extract
High-concentration tea tree extract delivers powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory action to calm active breakouts and control sebum production.
Texture & feel
SENSORY70.1% Tea Tree Extract
High-concentration tea tree extract delivers powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory action to calm active breakouts and control sebum production.
Centella Asiatica Complex
Four centella actives (Madecassoside, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid) work together to soothe irritation, promote healing, and strengthen the skin barrier.
Heartleaf (Houttuynia Cordata)
A beloved K-beauty soothing ingredient with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that helps remove skin impurities and calm redness.
Green Tea Antioxidant Shield
Rich in catechins and polyphenols, green tea extract protects against environmental stressors, reduces excess sebum, and helps brighten the skin tone.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Contains Glycereth-26, a PEG-based emollient that some fungal acne sources flag as potentially feeding Malassezia yeast. Most other ingredients are FA-safe. Patch test recommended if FA-prone.
Oil-free, silicone-free formula with no known pore-clogging ingredients. Very low risk of clogging pores, suitable for acne-prone skin.
Free from fragrance, alcohol, parabens, sulfates, and essential oils. Uses tea tree extract (not pure oil) for a gentler approach. Patch test still recommended for very reactive skin.
100% vegan formula with no animal-derived ingredients. VEGREEN is a cruelty-free Korean brand committed to eco-friendly skincare.
Safe to use with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and peptides. Can be layered with retinol or vitamin C, but introduce gradually. Avoid combining with strong AHA/BHA exfoliants in the same routine to prevent over-sensitization.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSMelaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Extract 70.1%Proven
The star ingredient of this serum, tea tree extract is rich in terpinen-4-ol, which provides potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits. Uses extract (not pure essential oil) for a gentler yet effective approach to acne care.
- Antibacterial: Tea tree has been shown to kill P. acnes bacteria, the primary cause of inflammatory acne.
- Sebum Control: Helps regulate excess oil production without stripping the skin of natural moisture.
- Pore Care: Tightens and minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores in oily, sebum-rich skin.
Centella Asiatica Extract + 4 Centelloids SignificantProven
A comprehensive centella complex including the whole extract plus four isolated active compounds: Madecassoside, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, and Madecassic Acid. This multi-level approach targets skin repair from multiple angles.
- Wound Healing: Asiaticoside stimulates collagen synthesis and promotes skin regeneration.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Madecassoside reduces redness and calms irritation, clinically validated in dermatitis studies.
- Barrier Support: Asiatic Acid and Madecassic Acid help restore and strengthen the skin barrier function.
Houttuynia Cordata (Heartleaf) ExtractPromising
A trending K-beauty hero ingredient prized for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Contains quercitrin, which helps alleviate skin issues while offering antioxidant benefits by neutralizing free radicals.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Contains decanoyl acetaldehyde, shown to be effective at killing bacteria and reducing skin inflammation.
- Antioxidant: Eliminates skin impurities and free radicals to maintain healthy, clear skin.
Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf ExtractProven
One of the most researched natural antioxidants in skincare. Rich in catechins (EGCG), polyphenols, and vitamin C to protect, soothe, and brighten the skin.
- Antioxidant: EGCG neutralizes free radicals and provides supplemental UV protection (not a sunscreen replacement).
- Sebum Reduction: Clinical studies show topical green tea extract can help reduce sebum production.
- Brightening: Vitamin C content helps fade blemishes, dark spots, and post-acne hyperpigmentation.
Sodium HyaluronateProven
A low-molecular-weight form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper into the skin to provide lasting hydration. Holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water.
- Deep Hydration: Smaller molecule size allows deeper penetration compared to standard hyaluronic acid.
- Plumping: Helps restore skin elasticity and reduces the appearance of fine dehydration lines.
Supporting Actives: Allantoin, Beta-Glucan, Dipotassium GlycyrrhizateProven
A trio of soothing and barrier-supporting ingredients that round out the formula for comprehensive skin care.
- Allantoin: Promotes cell regeneration and soothes irritated skin. Comedogenic rating: 0.
- Beta-Glucan: A powerful skin-soothing polysaccharide that helps repair the moisture barrier and calms redness.
- Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (Licorice): Derived from licorice root, helps brighten skin tone and reduce inflammation.
23 ingredients
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Extract, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Water, Glycereth-26, 1,2-Hexanediol, Centella Asiatica Extract, Caprylyl Glycol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Pentylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Allantoin, Betaine, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Madecassoside, Asiaticoside, Beta-Glucan, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and evening after toner. Apply before moisturizer. For best results, pair with VEGREEN Tea Tree Gel Cream as your moisturizer step.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with a clean face. After cleansing, apply your toner to balance pH and prep the skin for better absorption.
Dispense 2–3 Drops
Pump 2–3 drops of the serum onto your fingertips or palm. A little goes a long way thanks to the concentrated 70.1% tea tree formula.
Apply to Damp Skin
Gently pat and press the serum onto slightly damp skin for enhanced absorption. Focus on troubled areas, breakouts, and enlarged pores.
Follow with Moisturizer
Allow 15–30 seconds for full absorption, then seal with your favorite moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with sunscreen (SPF 30+).
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You struggle with frequent breakouts and acne-prone skin
- You have oily or combination skin with excess sebum
- You want a lightweight, non-greasy serum that absorbs quickly
- You prefer vegan, fragrance-free, and clean formulas
- You need gentle soothing for redness and irritation
- You want to minimize the appearance of enlarged pores
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin and need a rich, emollient serum
- You are looking for strong anti-aging or wrinkle-targeting actives
- You want a serum with exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA)
- You are highly sensitive to any tea tree-derived ingredients
- You need a thick, viscous serum texture for winter moisture
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. The watery, oil-free formula absorbs instantly without adding shine. Tea tree extract actively controls sebum production for a matte, balanced finish.
Balances oily T-zone while providing enough hydration for drier cheeks. Lightweight texture works well across different face zones without heaviness.
Designed specifically for this skin type. Non-comedogenic, antibacterial formula targets breakouts at the source while soothing existing blemishes.
Fragrance-free and alcohol-free with soothing centella and allantoin. Uses gentler tea tree extract instead of pure oil. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Provides base hydration via hyaluronic acid and glycerin, but the lightweight formula alone may not be enough. Layer a richer moisturizer or facial oil on top.
Results timeline
WEEKS 8+Immediate Soothing & Reduced Redness
Skin feels calmer and less irritated after each application. Active breakouts begin to reduce in redness and swelling. Skin appears more hydrated and refreshed.
78% noticed calmer skinFewer New Breakouts & Sebum Control
Frequency of new breakouts decreases noticeably. Oily zones feel more balanced throughout the day. Pores appear slightly refined and skin texture begins to smooth out.
65% noticed fewer breakoutsClearer Complexion & Even Tone
Significant improvement in overall skin clarity. Post-acne marks begin to fade thanks to centella and green tea. Skin barrier feels stronger with less reactive episodes. Visible pore refinement.
70% reported clearer skinLasting Clarity & Balanced Skin
Consistent use yields lasting results with maintained sebum balance. Skin tone appears more even and brighter. Breakout frequency significantly reduced compared to baseline.
72% saw long-term improvementRatings by platform
380+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- High 70.1% tea tree concentration delivers visible results on breakouts
- Ultra-lightweight watery texture absorbs in seconds with zero greasiness
- Clean, minimal ingredient list (only 23 ingredients) — no unnecessary fillers
- Vegan, fragrance-free, and suitable for sensitive, acne-prone skin
- Effective sebum control — keeps oily zones balanced throughout the day
- Soothes redness and irritation noticeably from first use
- Layers beautifully under makeup and sunscreen without pilling
Criticized
- Small 50ml bottle may not last long with twice-daily use (approx. 4–6 weeks)
- Too lightweight on its own for dry skin — needs a heavier moisturizer
- Limited global availability — not stocked in major Western retailers
- No added niacinamide or exfoliating actives for brightening
- Pump mechanism can dispense too much product at once
- Glycereth-26 may be a concern for fungal acne-prone individuals
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESVery similar concept with 67% tea tree leaf water + 19.5% centella. Adds niacinamide and adenosine for brightening and anti-aging. Slightly more ingredients (30 vs 23) but equally lightweight.
Uses green tea water base with BHA (betaine salicylate) for mild exfoliation. More treatment-oriented with active exfoliants. Better for clogged pores, but not purely soothing like VEGREEN.
A more aggressive acne-fighting serum with triple acid exfoliation (AHA, BHA, PHA) plus tea tree. Stronger but potentially more irritating. Better for stubborn acne, not ideal for very sensitive skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. No refrigeration required, but keeping it cool can extend shelf life.
Frosted glass bottle with pump dispenser for hygienic, precise dispensing. Eco-friendly packaging aligned with VEGREEN's sustainability mission.
Yes — 50ml is well under the 100ml TSA/airline carry-on liquid limit
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This serum does not contain any ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, or chemical sunscreen filters. The formula relies on tea tree extract, centella asiatica, and hyaluronic acid, all of which are generally considered safe for expecting and nursing mothers. As always, consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before introducing any new skincare product during pregnancy.
Mostly, but with one caveat. The formula is free from ferments, fatty acids, oils, esters, and polysorbates — all common fungal acne triggers. However, it does contain Glycereth-26 (a PEG-based emollient), which some fungal acne resources flag as potentially problematic. If you are prone to fungal acne, patch test on a small area first. Most of the other 22 ingredients are considered FA-safe.
Yes, but with smart layering. This serum is safe to combine with retinol and vitamin C — apply the tea tree serum first, let it absorb, then follow with retinol (PM) or vitamin C (AM). For AHA/BHA exfoliants, avoid using them in the same routine step to prevent over-sensitization. A good approach is alternating: exfoliants one night, tea tree serum the next, or use exfoliants in the evening and the tea tree serum in the morning.
This serum is most effective for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. Its lightweight, oil-free texture controls sebum without clogging pores. Sensitive skin types can also benefit thanks to the fragrance-free, alcohol-free formula. Dry skin types can use it but should follow with a richer moisturizer, as the watery texture alone may not provide enough hydration.
Most users notice a calming, soothing effect from the very first use. Visible reduction in redness and fewer new breakouts typically appear within 1–2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Significant improvements in overall skin clarity, pore refinement, and post-acne marks generally become evident after 4–6 weeks. For lasting results, continued daily use for 8+ weeks is recommended.
Apply this serum as Step 3 in your routine: after cleansing and toning, before moisturizer. Use it on slightly damp skin for better absorption. In the morning, follow with moisturizer and sunscreen. In the evening, follow with your night cream. It can be used both AM and PM. For enhanced results, pair with the VEGREEN Tea Tree Gel Cream as your moisturizer.
No. This serum has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5 (very low). The formula is oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no known pore-clogging ingredients. Key ingredients like glycerin (comedogenic rating 0), butylene glycol (rating 0), and sodium hyaluronate (rating 0) are all non-comedogenic. It is specifically designed for acne-prone skin and should not cause breakouts from pore congestion.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, the serum should be used within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. The 50ml bottle typically lasts 4–6 weeks with twice-daily use (2–3 drops per application). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain potency. If the color, smell, or texture changes noticeably, discontinue use.
Verdict: The VEGREEN Skin Purifying Tea Tree Serum is a standout K-beauty serum for anyone battling breakouts and oily skin. With a potent 70.1% tea tree extract and a thoughtfully minimal 23-ingredient formula, it delivers effective acne control and sebum regulation without the harshness of chemical exfoliants. The addition of a full centella asiatica complex, heartleaf, and green tea creates a well-rounded soothing serum that goes beyond simple spot treatment. It loses a point for the small bottle size relative to price and the limited availability outside of Asian beauty retailers. Ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types seeking a gentle yet effective daily treatment serum.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Melaleuca Cajaputi Extract
Tonic
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glycereth-26
Solvent, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|





