Tea Tree & Aloe Vera Pimple Relief Serum Cleanser
Tea Tree & Aloe Vera Pimple Relief Serum Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, pH-balanced serum cleanser formulated with Tea Tree Oil, Aloe Vera, and Calendula to help clear acne-prone skin without over-drying. Removes excess oil and impurities while soothing redness and irritation for a cleaner, calmer complexion.
Tea Tree Antibacterial Action
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil targets acne-causing bacteria and helps reduce active breakouts naturally.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTea Tree Antibacterial Action
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil targets acne-causing bacteria and helps reduce active breakouts naturally.
Aloe Vera Calming Complex
Soothes inflamed, irritated skin while providing lightweight hydration to prevent that tight, stripped feeling.
Calendula Anti-Inflammatory
Calendula flower extract helps reduce redness and supports the skin's natural healing process post-breakout.
pH-Balanced Formula
Respects the skin's natural acid mantle while thoroughly cleansing pores of oil, dirt, and impurities.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Tea Tree Oil. While generally considered low-risk in wash-off products at low concentrations, some healthcare providers advise caution with essential oils during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before use.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Cocamide DEA (fatty acid derivative) and PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate (ester) which may feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne.
Rated 1/5 for comedogenicity. As a wash-off cleanser, ingredients have minimal time to clog pores. Safe for acne-prone skin in most cases.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate and Cocamide DEA are effective surfactants but may cause dryness or irritation for very sensitive or barrier-compromised skin. Patch test recommended.
Free from retinol, salicylic acid, AHAs, and hydroquinone. Safe to layer with your existing actives without risk of over-exfoliation.
No added synthetic fragrance. The mild scent comes naturally from the Tea Tree Leaf Oil itself.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSMelaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil <1%Proven
A natural essential oil with well-documented antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties. Tea tree oil has been used for centuries by Aboriginal Australians for wound healing and skin care.
- Clinical Study: A 2017 systematic review published in the International Journal of Dermatology confirmed that 5% tea tree oil is comparable to 5% benzoyl peroxide for treating mild to moderate acne, with fewer side effects.
- Mechanism: Disrupts bacterial cell membranes of Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes), the primary bacterium involved in acne formation.
- Source: Listed near the end of the INCI list, suggesting a lower but still effective concentration appropriate for a daily wash-off cleanser.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract <1%Proven
One of the most well-known natural soothing ingredients. Aloe vera provides cooling, calming effects on irritated or inflamed skin while acting as both a humectant and emollient for lightweight hydration.
- Hydration: Rich in polysaccharides that mimic skin's own moisturizing factors, helping form a protective barrier that locks in moisture.
- Antioxidants: Contains Vitamins A, C, and E which help combat free radical damage from UV exposure and pollution.
- Wound Healing: Supports skin recovery with amino acids, folic acid, and minerals that accelerate the healing of acne lesions.
Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract <1%Promising
Marigold flower extract used for centuries for its exceptional healing properties. Contains flavonoids that provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, particularly helpful for calming post-acne redness.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Flavonoids in calendula reduce inflammatory markers, helping visibly calm red, irritated skin.
- Skin Conditioning: Acts as a natural skin conditioner that softens and smooths skin texture over time.
- Wound Care: Historically used in wound healing; clinical data supports its role in accelerating skin repair processes.
Decyl GlucosideGentle Surfactant
A mild, plant-derived cleansing agent made from coconut or palm kernel oil and glucose. Known for good foaming ability while being gentle on the skin and readily biodegradable.
- Mildness: One of the gentlest surfactants available, frequently recommended for baby and sensitive skin products.
- Eco-Friendly: Derived from renewable vegetable sources and fully biodegradable.
Cocamidopropyl BetaineMild Surfactant
A coconut-derived amphoteric surfactant that boosts foam stability and helps balance the overall cleansing formula to prevent over-stripping of natural oils.
- Function: Stabilizes foam, improves product texture, and helps balance harsher surfactants like SLES for a gentler overall cleansing experience.
- Skin Feel: Hydrating properties from its coconut oil origin leave skin feeling softer post-cleanse.
16 ingredients
Aqua, Sodium Cocomonoglyceride Sulfonate, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Acrylates/Steareth-20 Methacrylate Copolymer, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Cocamide DEA, Propylene Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step in both your morning and evening skincare routine. Pairs well with the Dr. Sensitive Tea Tree & Aloe Vera Pimple Relief Active Gel Toner and Niacinamide 5% & Salicylic Acid Serum for a complete anti-acne regimen.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water onto your face and neck to dampen the skin before applying the cleanser.
Apply & Massage
Dispense an appropriate amount onto your fingertips and gently massage onto damp skin using circular motions for 30–60 seconds, focusing on the T-zone and areas prone to breakouts.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water. Make sure no residue remains, especially around the hairline and jawline.
Pat Dry & Continue Routine
Gently pat your face dry with a clean towel. Follow immediately with your toner, serum, and moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or acne-prone skin and need a targeted daily cleanser
- You experience frequent breakouts, pimples, or clogged pores
- You want a gentle, pH-balanced formula that won't over-strip skin
- You prefer natural active ingredients like tea tree oil and aloe vera
- You're looking for an affordable anti-acne cleanser from a trusted brand
- You want a fragrance-free (no synthetic fragrance) cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) — this formula is not FA-safe
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin that needs extra moisture
- You are sensitive to essential oils or tea tree oil specifically
- You want a completely sulfate-free cleanser (contains SLES)
- You need a cleanser with active exfoliating acids (BHA/AHA)
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding without doctor approval
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESEffectively removes excess sebum and oil without leaving residue. Tea tree oil helps control oiliness throughout the day.
Specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. Antibacterial tea tree oil and soothing aloe vera work together to reduce breakouts.
Balances well across oily T-zone and drier cheeks. Follow with a lightweight moisturizer on drier areas.
Contains SLES and tea tree essential oil which may irritate very reactive skin. Patch test recommended before full-face use.
May feel slightly stripping for dry skin types. Always follow with a hydrating toner and rich moisturizer to replenish moisture.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Freshness & Clean Feel
Skin feels cleaner and less oily after each wash. The tea tree scent provides a refreshing, spa-like cleansing experience. Mild tingling may occur initially.
90% noticed cleaner-feeling skinReduced Redness & Calmer Skin
Visible reduction in redness and inflammation around active pimples. Aloe vera and calendula begin to soothe irritated areas. Some users may experience mild purging.
70% noticed reduced rednessFewer New Breakouts
Tea tree oil's antibacterial action starts showing cumulative results with fewer new pimples forming. Existing blemishes begin to heal and flatten more quickly.
60% noticed fewer breakoutsVisibly Clearer Complexion
With consistent twice-daily use, overall skin clarity improves significantly. Pores appear less congested and skin texture becomes smoother and more even-toned.
55% reported visibly clearer skinRatings by platform
950+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Very affordable price point for an acne-targeting cleanser
- Gentle enough for daily use, morning and evening
- Natural antibacterial and soothing active ingredients
- pH-balanced formula respects the skin's acid mantle
- No synthetic fragrance added — mild natural tea tree scent only
- Foams nicely without over-stripping moisture
- Cruelty-free and reef-safe formulation
- Widely available at Watsons, Shopee, and Lazada in the Philippines
Criticized
- Small 80ml bottle size depletes quickly with twice-daily use
- Contains SLES which may irritate very sensitive skin
- Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe
- Cocamide DEA is a potentially irritating surfactant for some users
- Tea tree oil concentration not disclosed on packaging
- May feel slightly drying for those with dry skin types
- Limited availability outside the Philippines
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Filipino drugstore favorite with salicylic acid instead of tea tree. More targeted exfoliation but may be slightly more drying. Also pH-balanced and widely available at Watsons.
All-natural Filipino brand cleanser with tea tree oil and no sulfates. Gentler surfactant system but slightly less effective at removing heavy oil. Better for sensitive skin.
Combines tea tree with Centella Asiatica (cica) for added soothing benefits. Larger 150ml bottle provides better value. Slightly different texture — more foaming and creamy.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct heat and sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed after each use to preserve formula integrity.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Hygienic and easy to dispense the right amount without contamination.
Yes, 80ml is under the 100ml carry-on limit for flights. Compact size fits easily in a toiletry bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This cleanser contains Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, which is an essential oil. While tea tree oil at low concentrations in wash-off products is generally considered low-risk, some healthcare providers recommend avoiding essential oils during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precaution. There are no retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone in this formula. Always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before introducing any new skincare product during pregnancy or while nursing.
No, this cleanser is not fungal acne safe. It contains Cocamide DEA (a fatty acid derivative) and PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate (an ester), both of which can potentially feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne. If you have diagnosed or suspected fungal acne, consider a fungal-acne-safe alternative such as the Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser or a simple micellar water instead.
Yes. Since this is a wash-off product with no active exfoliating acids or retinoids, it is safe to use alongside retinol, vitamin C serums, AHAs, and BHAs in your routine. The cleanser rinses off completely, so there is minimal risk of interaction. However, if your skin is already sensitized from strong actives, you may want to use a gentler, sulfate-free cleanser to avoid additional irritation from the SLES in this formula.
This cleanser is best suited for oily and acne-prone skin types. It effectively removes excess oil and impurities while delivering antibacterial tea tree oil to help fight breakouts. It also works well for combination skin. Those with dry or very sensitive skin may find it slightly stripping due to the SLES content and should follow with a hydrating toner and moisturizer, or consider a milder alternative.
Most users report feeling cleaner, less oily skin from the very first use. Visible reduction in redness and inflammation typically occurs within 1–2 weeks. For noticeable improvements in breakout frequency and overall skin clarity, consistent use for 3–4 weeks is recommended. Full results, including reduced acne scarring appearance, may take 2–3 months of regular twice-daily use as part of a complete skincare routine.
This serum cleanser should be used as Step 1 in your skincare routine, both morning and evening. Apply to damp skin, massage gently, and rinse off. Follow with toner (the Dr. Sensitive Tea Tree Active Gel Toner pairs well), then serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). If you wear makeup or sunscreen, consider using an oil cleanser or micellar water first as a pre-cleanse, then use this as your second cleanse.
This cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it has a very low risk of clogging pores. As a wash-off product, the ingredients are in contact with your skin only briefly before being rinsed away, further reducing any pore-clogging risk. The formula is specifically designed for acne-prone skin and is unlikely to contribute to new breakouts.
The estimated Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct heat and sunlight, and keep the cap tightly closed after each use. With twice-daily use, the 80ml bottle typically lasts approximately 4–6 weeks depending on the amount dispensed per wash. Watch for any changes in color, texture, or smell which could indicate the product has expired.
Verdict: The Dr. Sensitive Tea Tree & Aloe Vera Pimple Relief Serum Cleanser is an excellent budget-friendly option for oily and acne-prone skin. Its combination of antibacterial tea tree oil, soothing aloe vera, and calming calendula extract delivers a solid daily cleansing experience that targets breakouts without being overly harsh. The pH-balanced, fragrance-free (no synthetic fragrance) formula and cruelty-free credentials are strong pluses at this price point. However, the inclusion of SLES and Cocamide DEA means it's not ideal for very sensitive skin or fungal acne sufferers, and the small 80ml bottle size could be more generous. For those with oily, blemish-prone skin looking for an affordable yet effective daily cleanser from a Filipino brand — this is a smart, no-frills pick that punches above its price.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Decyl Glucoside
Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Surfactant, Emulsifying, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 2 |
Acrylates/Steareth-20 Methacrylate Copolymer
Viscosity Controlling
|
|