Tea Tree Control Soothing Cream
Tea Tree Control Soothing Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, cooling gel cream formulated with 79% Tea Tree Leaf Water to calm irritated, sensitive skin. This Korean skincare gem delivers instant soothing relief while providing lightweight hydration without greasiness. Perfect for acne-prone and reactive skin types seeking gentle, effective care.
79% Tea Tree Leaf Water
Derived from steam distillation, tea tree water provides gentle antibacterial and soothing properties without the irritation of concentrated essential oil.
Texture & feel
SENSORY79% Tea Tree Leaf Water
Derived from steam distillation, tea tree water provides gentle antibacterial and soothing properties without the irritation of concentrated essential oil.
Instant Cooling Relief
Gel-cream texture delivers immediate cooling sensation to calm heated, irritated skin and reduce visible redness.
Lightweight Hydration
Multi-layer humectants including Glycerin, Trehalose, and Polyglutamic Acid provide deep hydration without heaviness.
Barrier Support
Centella Asiatica and Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate work synergistically to strengthen skin barrier and reduce inflammation.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Tea Tree Leaf Water (not oil). Generally considered safe for topical use in 2nd/3rd trimester. Consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Contains Polyglutamic Acid (fermentation-derived). Tea Tree has antifungal properties, but patch test recommended for FA-prone skin.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free formula designed for reactive and sensitive skin. Dermatologist tested.
Oil-free, non-comedogenic formula with low comedogenic rating (1/5). Tea Tree provides gentle antibacterial benefits.
Safe to use alongside retinol. Apply this soothing cream after retinol to help reduce potential irritation.
Can be layered with vitamin C and acids. Use acids first, wait 5-10 minutes, then apply this cream to soothe.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTea Tree Leaf Water 79%Star Ingredient
The foundation of this formula, tea tree leaf water (hydrosol) is created as a byproduct of steam distillation. It provides gentle antibacterial and soothing properties without the concentration or potential irritation of pure tea tree essential oil.
- Function: Soothing, mild antibacterial, anti-inflammatory
- Source: Melaleuca Alternifolia leaves from Australia
- Research: Tea tree has documented antimicrobial activity against acne-causing bacteria
Centella Asiatica ExtractProven
Also known as Cica or Gotu Kola, this legendary ingredient has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Rich in asiaticoside, madecassic acid, and asiatic acid for powerful wound-healing and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Function: Wound healing, barrier repair, anti-inflammatory
- Research: Clinical studies show improved skin hydration and reduced redness
- Mechanism: Stimulates collagen synthesis and GAG production
Dipotassium GlycyrrhizateProven
Derived from licorice root, this potent anti-inflammatory ingredient helps calm redness, soothe irritation, and regulate sebum production. Also provides mild brightening benefits.
- Function: Anti-inflammatory, sebum-regulating, skin brightening
- Source: Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root
- Benefit: Helps prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Polyglutamic AcidPromising
A powerful humectant derived from bacterial fermentation that holds up to 5x more moisture than hyaluronic acid. Helps speed wound healing and creates a protective moisture barrier.
- Function: Intense hydration, moisture retention
- Mechanism: Forms film on skin to prevent transepidermal water loss
- Benefit: Smoother, plumper skin texture
Houttuynia Cordata ExtractPromising
A traditional Asian medicinal herb known for powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. Helps calm acne-prone and irritated skin.
- Function: Antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory
- Traditional Use: Used in East Asian medicine for skin infections
- Research: Studies show activity against various skin pathogens
22 ingredients
Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Water, Trehalose, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Diglycerin, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Tromethamine, Salvia Hispanica Seed Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Propanediol, Disodium EDTA, Polyglutamic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the final moisturizing step in your routine. Can be used alone as a lightweight moisturizer or layered under a richer cream for dry skin. Apply morning and night.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with cleansed skin. Apply your toner, essence, and serums as usual. Allow each layer to absorb before proceeding.
Dispense Product
Take a moderate amount (about a pea-sized amount for face) and warm it between your fingertips for better absorption.
Apply & Massage
Gently massage the cream into your face using upward, circular motions. Focus on areas of irritation or redness for targeted soothing.
Spot Treatment (Optional)
For extra soothing on blemishes, apply a thicker layer as an overnight spot treatment mask on irritated areas.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, easily irritated skin
- You struggle with acne and need gentle hydration
- You want a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer
- Your skin reacts to fragrances and essential oils
- You need to calm redness and inflammation
- You prefer K-beauty formulations
- You want a cooling, refreshing cream
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin needing rich moisture
- You prefer products with a matte finish
- You need anti-aging as your primary concern
- You dislike gel-cream textures
- You want a product with actives like retinol or acids
- You are in your first trimester of pregnancy
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel texture absorbs quickly without adding shine. Oil-free formula won't clog pores or trigger breakouts.
Balances well across T-zone and cheeks. Provides hydration where needed without overwhelming oily areas.
Provides hydration but may not be rich enough alone. Layer under a heavier cream for optimal moisture.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free formula with soothing Centella and Licorice. Designed specifically for reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic, oil-free formula with tea tree for gentle antibacterial action. Won't aggravate breakouts.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Instant Cooling & Soothing
Feel immediate cooling sensation on application. Skin feels calmer and less irritated within minutes. Visible redness appears reduced.
95% noticed instant reliefReduced Irritation & Better Hydration
Consistent use leads to calmer, more balanced skin. Fewer reactive flare-ups. Skin feels more hydrated and comfortable throughout the day.
80% saw improvementImproved Skin Texture
Skin barrier feels stronger. Reduced frequency of breakouts for acne-prone users. Overall skin texture appears smoother and healthier.
70% reported clearer skinLong-term Balance
Skin maintains balance with less reactivity to triggers. Users report needing fewer other products due to improved skin health.
65% continued usingRatings by platform
650+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- High concentration of tea tree water (79%)
- Instantly soothes and cools irritated skin
- Lightweight, non-greasy formula
- Fragrance-free and alcohol-free
- Effective for calming blemishes overnight
- Clean formula with minimal ingredients (22)
- Good value for 100ml size
- Contains Centella and Licorice for extra soothing
Criticized
- May feel sticky when applied thickly
- Not moisturizing enough for very dry skin
- Better as spot treatment than daily moisturizer
- Tube packaging can be unhygienic
- Contains Polyglutamic Acid (fungal acne concern)
- Limited availability outside K-beauty retailers
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Uses green tea instead of tea tree for soothing. Similar lightweight gel texture with cooling effect. Contains Vitamin B5 for extra hydration.
Contains tea tree oil, propolis, and Centella. Has niacinamide for extra brightening. Slightly richer texture but still lightweight.
Uses aloe and propolis for soothing instead of tea tree. Lighter gel texture, better for layering. No fragrance.
Focuses on Centella (70%) rather than tea tree. Similar soothing benefits with tea tree oil as supporting ingredient.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the PAO symbol on packaging for specific guidance.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep at room temperature (15-25°C). Refrigeration optional for enhanced cooling effect.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Hygienic dispensing minimizes contamination from fingers.
Yes, 100ml size is allowed in carry-on luggage. TSA and international travel compliant.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis product contains Tea Tree Leaf Water (hydrosol), not concentrated tea tree essential oil. According to the International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists, tea tree is generally considered safe for topical use during the second and third trimesters when properly diluted. However, we recommend consulting your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, especially in the first trimester when extra caution is advised.
This product is mostly fungal acne safe due to its oil-free formula and absence of fatty acids/esters that feed malassezia. However, it contains Polyglutamic Acid, which is derived from bacterial fermentation and may be problematic for some FA-prone individuals. Tea tree itself has antifungal properties. We recommend patch testing if you have fungal acne to see how your skin responds.
Yes! This soothing cream is an excellent companion to active ingredients. Apply your retinol, vitamin C, or acids first, wait 5-10 minutes for absorption, then follow with this cream to help soothe and protect your skin. The Centella Asiatica and Licorice Root extracts help calm any irritation from actives.
This cream is best suited for oily, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin types. The lightweight gel-cream texture provides hydration without heaviness or greasiness. Those with very dry skin may find it insufficient as a standalone moisturizer but can layer it under a richer cream.
You'll feel immediate cooling and soothing effects upon application. Visible reduction in redness typically occurs within the first week of consistent use. For improvements in overall skin balance and reduced breakouts, expect to see results within 3-4 weeks of regular morning and evening use.
Apply this cream as the last step of your routine before sunscreen (AM) or as your final step (PM). The order is: Cleanser → Toner → Essence → Serum/Ampoule → This Cream → Sunscreen (AM only). If you have very dry skin, you can follow with a richer moisturizer.
No, this product has a very low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The formula is oil-free, silicone-free, and contains primarily non-comedogenic ingredients like Glycerin (rating 0), Butylene Glycol (rating 0), and Tea Tree Water. It's specifically formulated for acne-prone skin and should not clog pores when used as directed.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. This means you should use it within 12 months of first opening. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain product integrity. The 100ml size typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use.
Verdict: Papa Recipe Tea Tree Control Soothing Cream is an excellent choice for those with sensitive, oily, or acne-prone skin seeking gentle, effective relief. The 79% Tea Tree Water concentration delivers meaningful soothing benefits without the irritation of essential oils. The clean, minimal formula (only 22 ingredients) with Centella Asiatica and Licorice Root makes it ideal for reactive skin. While it may not provide enough moisture for very dry skin types and can feel slightly sticky when over-applied, it excels as a lightweight daily moisturizer or targeted spot treatment. Great value at 100ml, this K-beauty gem deserves a place in your routine if you prioritize soothing over anti-aging.
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
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|