Tea Tree Biome Blemish Cica Gel Cleanser
Tea Tree Biome Blemish Cica Gel Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, low-pH gel cleanser infused with Tea Tree Leaf Water (16,170 ppm), Centella Asiatica, and PHA (Gluconolactone) to soothe blemish-prone skin, control excess sebum, and strengthen the skin barrier without stripping moisture.
Tea Tree Biome Solution
Exclusively developed formula with Tea Tree Leaf Water at 16,170 ppm to target blemishes and excess sebum while soothing irritation.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTea Tree Biome Solution
Exclusively developed formula with Tea Tree Leaf Water at 16,170 ppm to target blemishes and excess sebum while soothing irritation.
Centella Asiatica (Cica) Complex
Contains four centellosides — Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Asiatic Acid, and Madecassoside — to calm inflammation and support skin repair.
PHA Gentle Exfoliation
Gluconolactone (PHA) provides gentle exfoliation that is milder than AHA/BHA, smoothing texture without sensitizing the skin.
Low pH Barrier Protection
Mildly acidic formula matches the skin's natural pH to maintain the acid mantle and protect against environmental stressors.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. Contains Tea Tree Leaf Water (not essential oil), which is generally milder, but some practitioners advise caution with tea tree during pregnancy. Consult your doctor.
Free from fatty acids, fatty esters, polysorbates, and oils that feed Malassezia yeast. Contains a ferment filtrate (Cutibacterium Granulosum) but this is a bacterial ferment, not a fungal-feeding ingredient.
Rated 1/5 for comedogenicity. No heavy oils, coconut derivatives, or pore-clogging waxes. The gel formula is lightweight and non-occlusive.
Skin irritancy test completed. Uses mild surfactants (Coco-Betaine, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate) instead of harsh SLS/SLES. Fragrance-free and alcohol-free formula.
Safe to use alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHA, and BHA. As a rinse-off cleanser, the PHA content is minimal and will not cause over-exfoliation when layered with other actives.
Contains Cutibacterium Granulosum Ferment Extract Filtrate (a microbiome-derived ingredient). Not officially certified vegan or cruelty-free by Mediheal at this time.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTea Tree Leaf Water 16,170 ppmProven
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water is the star antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredient. Unlike essential oil, tea tree water is gentler while still targeting acne-causing bacteria.
- Antibacterial: Tea tree has demonstrated effectiveness against Propionibacterium acnes (C. acnes), a key acne-causing bacterium.
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce redness and swelling associated with active breakouts.
- Concentration: Listed as the 5th ingredient at 16,170 ppm (approximately 1.6%), a meaningful concentration in a rinse-off product.
Centella Asiatica Complex 4 CentellosidesProven
A full-spectrum Centella Asiatica complex including Centella Asiatica Extract, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Asiatic Acid, and Madecassoside — the four key active centellosides known for skin repair.
- Wound Healing: Centellosides stimulate collagen synthesis and support skin tissue regeneration.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation in eczema and acne-prone skin, confirmed in multiple clinical studies.
- Barrier Support: Stimulates glycosaminoglycan (GAG) and hyaluronic acid synthesis for improved moisture retention.
Gluconolactone (PHA) Gentle ExfoliantProven
A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that provides gentle exfoliation without the irritation associated with AHAs and BHAs. Ideal for sensitive, acne-prone skin.
- Exfoliation: Removes dead skin cells and unclogs pores with less irritation than glycolic or salicylic acid.
- Antioxidant: Provides UV protection and chelates metal ions that can damage skin.
- Humectant: Draws moisture into the skin, providing hydration during cleansing.
Willow Bark Extract Natural BHA SourcePromising
Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract contains salicin, a natural precursor to salicylic acid, offering mild anti-inflammatory and pore-refining benefits.
- Anti-inflammatory: Salicin helps soothe irritation and redness.
- Pore Refining: Supports the appearance of smaller, cleaner pores over time.
Green Tea Extract AntioxidantProven
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract is rich in catechins (especially EGCG), powerful antioxidants with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals and protects against environmental damage.
- Sebum Control: Studies show green tea catechins can help reduce sebum production in oily skin.
Cutibacterium Granulosum Ferment Extract Filtrate 1,000 ppmPromising
A patented probiotic-derived ferment that supports the skin's natural microbiome balance, helping to reinforce the skin barrier and reduce breakout-causing bacteria.
- Microbiome Support: Helps maintain healthy skin flora by promoting beneficial bacteria.
- Patent Complex: Part of Mediheal's exclusively developed Tea Tree Biome Solution.
35 ingredients
Water, Coco-Betaine, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water (16,170 ppm), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Chloride, Centella Asiatica Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, Melissa Officinalis Extract, Tromethamine, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Asiatic Acid, Gluconolactone, Xylitol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Anhydroxylitol, Glucose, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Chaenomeles Sinensis Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Flower Extract, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Cutibacterium Granulosum Ferment Extract Filtrate (1,000 ppm), Xylitylglucoside, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the second step in a double-cleanse routine (after oil cleanser) or as your sole cleanser in the morning. Apply twice daily, AM and PM.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash your face with lukewarm water to dampen the skin. If using as the second cleanse in your PM routine, use after removing makeup with an oil cleanser.
Dispense & Lather
Pump 1–2 pumps of the gel cleanser onto your palms. Gently work the product into a light, airy lather with a small amount of water.
Massage Gently
Apply the lather to your entire face using soft, circular motions for 30–60 seconds. Focus on the T-zone and blemish-prone areas, but avoid tugging the skin.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water. Pat your face dry with a clean towel and immediately follow up with toner to lock in hydration.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You struggle with frequent blemishes and breakouts
- You want a low-pH cleanser that won't strip your moisture barrier
- You prefer fragrance-free, gentle formulas
- You want to incorporate Centella (Cica) into your cleansing step
- You have fungal acne and need a safe cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- You need heavy-duty makeup removal (use an oil cleanser first)
- You prefer rich, creamy cleansers with a thick lather
- You have very dry skin and want a hydrating milk or balm cleanser
- You need a strong BHA/AHA exfoliating cleanser for deep chemical exfoliation
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESTea tree and PHA help control sebum and unclog pores. Lightweight gel formula leaves skin clean without oiliness or residue.
Balances oily T-zone without over-drying cheeks. Glycerin and Aloe Vera provide hydration where needed.
Antibacterial tea tree targets acne, while Cica soothes inflammation. Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, and free from pore-clogging ingredients.
Mild surfactants and low pH are gentle. Fragrance-free formula. Patch test recommended, as some very reactive skin types may be sensitive to tea tree.
Contains glycerin and Aquaxyl (xylitol complex) for hydration, but gel cleansers are generally better suited for oilier types. Follow with a rich moisturizer.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Comfort & Freshness
Skin feels clean and refreshed without tightness. The natural tea tree scent provides a soothing cleansing experience. No immediate dryness or stripping.
90% noticed cleaner-feeling skinReduced Redness & Calmer Skin
Centella Asiatica begins to reduce visible redness and inflammation around active blemishes. Skin feels more balanced and less reactive.
70% noticed calmer skinFewer Breakouts & Smoother Texture
PHA exfoliation smooths skin texture. Tea tree antibacterial action helps reduce frequency of new blemishes. Pores appear less congested.
65% noticed fewer breakoutsClearer, More Balanced Complexion
With consistent twice-daily use, overall skin clarity improves. Skin barrier feels stronger, sebum production is more regulated, and post-acne marks begin to fade.
55% noticed visibly clearer skinRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle yet effective cleansing without stripping moisture
- Noticeable calming effect on redness and inflamed blemishes
- Low pH formula maintains healthy skin barrier
- Free from parabens, sulfates, fragrance, and silicone
- Affordable price point for a quality K-beauty cleanser
- Convenient pump bottle for hygienic dispensing
- Fungal acne safe formula
Criticized
- Not sufficient for removing heavy or waterproof makeup alone
- Light lather may feel insufficient for those used to foamy cleansers
- Tea tree scent, though natural, may not appeal to everyone
- May not provide enough hydration for very dry skin types
- Pump can be stiff on first use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESAlso features low pH and tea tree, but uses BHA (Betaine Salicylate) instead of PHA. Slightly more drying. Lacks Centella Asiatica complex and the microbiome ferment filtrate.
Low pH gel cleanser with mild surfactants. Focuses on barrier repair but lacks tea tree antibacterial properties. Better suited for sensitive skin without acne concerns.
Green tea-focused gel cleanser with low pH. Emphasizes antioxidant protection over antibacterial action. No tea tree or Centella complex. Good for general oily skin maintenance.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the pump cap closed when not in use to prevent contamination.
Opaque pump bottle (200ml) — hygienic dispensing that minimizes air exposure and bacterial contamination.
No — 200ml exceeds the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Decant into a smaller container for travel or purchase a travel-size version if available.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis cleanser does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the main ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. However, it does contain Tea Tree Leaf Water. While tea tree water is much gentler than concentrated tea tree essential oil, some healthcare providers advise caution with tea tree during pregnancy. We recommend consulting your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Yes. This cleanser is free from common malassezia-feeding triggers such as fatty acids, fatty esters, polysorbates, and oils. The Cutibacterium Granulosum Ferment Extract Filtrate is a bacterial (not yeast) ferment and is not known to aggravate fungal acne. This makes it a solid choice for those dealing with fungal acne / malassezia folliculitis.
Yes. As a rinse-off cleanser, the active ingredients (PHA, tea tree, willow bark) do not remain on your skin long enough to cause adverse interactions. You can safely layer retinol, vitamin C, AHA, or BHA products in subsequent steps of your routine. If your skin is particularly sensitive, you may want to introduce actives one at a time.
This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The tea tree and PHA help control sebum and blemishes, while Centella soothes irritation. It also works well for sensitive skin (it passed irritancy testing), though those with very dry skin may find it insufficient on its own without a heavier moisturizer afterward.
Most users report feeling an immediate difference in skin comfort and cleanliness from the first use. Visible reduction in redness and calmer skin typically takes 1–2 weeks. For noticeable improvement in breakout frequency and overall skin clarity, allow 3–4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Full results are usually seen after 2–3 months.
This is a water-based gel cleanser, so it belongs in the cleansing step of your routine. In the evening, use it as the second step in a double-cleanse (after an oil cleanser or micellar water). In the morning, you can use it as your sole cleanser. Follow with toner, serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM).
No. This cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it has a very low risk of clogging pores. It is free from heavy oils, waxes, and comedogenic ingredients. The lightweight gel formula rinses cleanly without leaving pore-blocking residue. It is suitable for acne-prone skin and has passed dermatological testing.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and freshness. The pump bottle design helps minimize contamination. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If the product changes in color, texture, or smell before the 12-month mark, discontinue use.
Verdict: The Mediheal Tea Tree Biome Blemish Cica Gel Cleanser is an excellent everyday cleanser for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. Its thoughtfully formulated blend of Tea Tree Leaf Water (16,170 ppm), a full Centella Asiatica complex, and gentle PHA exfoliation provides effective blemish care without compromising the skin barrier. The low-pH, fragrance-free, sulfate-free formula is suitable for sensitive skin and is one of the few gel cleansers that is also fungal acne safe. At around $15 for 200ml, it delivers impressive value for a K-beauty cleanser backed by patented microbiome technology. Best suited for those seeking a gentle yet targeted second cleanser that calms, clears, and protects troubled skin.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Coco-Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Water
Antimicrobial, Antiseborrhoeic, Astringent, Tonic
|
|







