Tea Tree Oil Moisturizer
Tea Tree Oil Moisturizer
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, oil-free gel-cream moisturizer by Aiken that harnesses the power of Australian Tea Tree Oil and Salicylic Acid to protect acne-prone skin from blemishes, control excess shine, refine pores, and keep skin balanced and hydrated throughout the day. Formulated at skin pH for everyday use on oily and combination skin.
Australian Tea Tree Oil
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil delivers proven antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial action to fight acne-causing P. acnes bacteria naturally.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAustralian Tea Tree Oil
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil delivers proven antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial action to fight acne-causing P. acnes bacteria naturally.
Salicylic Acid (BHA)
A beta-hydroxy acid that penetrates deep into pores to dissolve excess sebum, unclog congestion, and prevent new blemishes from forming.
Licorice Root Extract
Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract brightens post-acne marks and dark spots while delivering anti-inflammatory benefits to calm reactive skin.
Biosaccharide Gum-1
A next-generation "smart sugar" that provides long-lasting hydration comparable to hyaluronic acid, with peak moisturizing at 3–8 hours post-application.
Allantoin + Bisabolol
A dual soothing complex that calms irritation, accelerates skin recovery, reduces redness, and strengthens tolerance to active ingredients like BHA.
Silicone Smoothing Complex
Dimethicone and Cyclopentasiloxane create a silky, lightweight finish that blurs texture and controls shine without clogging pores.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Salicylic Acid (BHA) and Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate), a chemical UV filter. High-dose BHA use is typically avoided during pregnancy. Consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist before using this product while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Contains Ethylhexyl Palmitate, a fatty acid ester that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast. If you are managing fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis), patch test carefully or consider a fully fungal-acne-safe alternative.
The formula is primarily water-based and oil-free. Key emollients like Dimethicone and Cyclopentasiloxane are rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Suitable for most acne-prone skin types.
Safe to use in an alternating routine with retinol (not simultaneously). Since it contains BHA, using both retinol and this moisturizer on the same night may increase sensitivity — alternate or use this product in the morning.
Contains Salicylic Acid. Avoid layering with additional AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid) in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation and irritation. Use Vitamin C in the morning and this product at night, or alternate days.
Allantoin and Bisabolol are clinically recognized skin soothers. However, the inclusion of Parfum (fragrance) and Tea Tree Oil means highly reactive skin types should always patch test first.
All listed ingredients are plant-derived or synthetically produced — no animal-derived ingredients are used. Note: Aiken does not currently hold official cruelty-free certification.
Tea Tree Oil and Salicylic Acid can occasionally trigger flare-ups in rosacea-prone individuals. If you have rosacea, patch test on the jawline for 48–72 hours before full application.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSMelaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil ~1–2%Proven
The hero active from Australia with nearly 100 years of documented antimicrobial use. Tea Tree Oil contains approximately 100 bioactive components, with Terpinen-4-ol (40%) as the primary antibacterial compound. Clinical studies demonstrate efficacy against Propionibacterium acnes comparable to 5% Benzoyl Peroxide — but with fewer side effects such as dryness and peeling.
- Antimicrobial: Kills P. acnes and Staphylococcus bacteria responsible for inflamed pimples and pustules.
- Anti-inflammatory: Terpinen-4-ol suppresses inflammatory cytokine production, reducing swelling and redness.
- Antioxidant: Protects skin cells from oxidative stress and environmental damage.
Salicylic Acid (BHA) ~0.5–1%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into the pore lining to dissolve the dead skin cells and excess sebum that cause blackheads, whiteheads, and blemishes. It also has mild anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective for both non-inflammatory (comedones) and inflammatory (papules, pustules) acne.
- Pore Clearing: Dissolves sebum plugs and keratin buildup inside pores to reduce blackheads and congestion.
- Sebum Control: Regulates oil secretion to maintain a matte, shine-free complexion throughout the day.
- Exfoliating: Promotes gentle cell turnover to fade post-acne marks and improve skin texture over time.
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract ~0.1–0.5%Promising
An antioxidant-rich botanical extract prized in skincare for its ability to inhibit tyrosinase — the enzyme responsible for melanin production — helping to fade acne-related hyperpigmentation and dark spots. Its active compound, Glabridin, also delivers meaningful anti-inflammatory effects.
- Brightening: Inhibits tyrosinase activity to fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and uneven tone.
- Soothing: Reduces redness and calms inflamed breakouts with anti-inflammatory Glabridin.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals to protect against premature skin aging from UV and pollution.
Glycerin ~3–5%Proven
One of the most research-backed humectants in skincare. Glycerin draws water from the deeper dermis and environment into the upper skin layers, maintaining optimal hydration. It also supports the skin's lipid barrier and reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), keeping skin plump without greasiness.
- Hydration: Effective humectant rated 0/5 on the comedogenic scale — safe for all skin types including acne-prone.
- Barrier Support: Maintains healthy intercellular lipid structure to reduce sensitivity and moisture loss.
Biosaccharide Gum-1 ~0.5%Promising
A ferment-derived "smart sugar" with clinically demonstrated moisturizing, soothing, and anti-aging properties. It has a delayed but sustained hydration effect — peaking at 3–8 hours after application — making it complementary to faster-acting humectants like hyaluronic acid. In clinical testing, 3% Biosaccharide Gum-1 reduced stinging caused by lactic acid by 47%.
- Sustained Hydration: Provides long-lasting moisture that extends beyond typical humectants.
- Soothing: Measurably reduces tingling, stinging, and irritation caused by active ingredients.
- Anti-aging (ex-vivo): May stimulate sirtuin-1 protein to support skin longevity.
Allantoin + Bisabolol ~0.2–0.5% eachProven
A powerful soothing duo. Allantoin (derived from the comfrey plant, produced synthetically for cosmetics) is clinically recognized for accelerating wound healing, softening skin, and reducing irritation from actives. Bisabolol is a chamomile-derived compound with potent anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and skin-calming properties. Together they offset the potential dryness or irritation from Salicylic Acid and Tea Tree Oil.
- Wound Healing: Allantoin promotes cell proliferation and accelerates recovery from active breakouts.
- Anti-inflammatory: Bisabolol reduces cytokine-driven redness and visible swelling.
- Tolerance Builder: Buffers the potential irritation from BHA and essential oil actives in this formula.
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate) ~2–5%Proven
An oil-soluble chemical UV filter that absorbs UVB radiation (280–320 nm), providing partial sun protection. It contributes to the product's SPF 15 claim. Note: it does not provide UVA protection and is not photostable — efficacy can degrade with direct sun exposure.
- UVB Protection: Helps prevent sunburn and UV-triggered acne flares when used with adequate SPF application.
- Texture Aid: Oil-soluble nature contributes to the smooth, non-greasy finish of the formula.
24 ingredients
Water, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Cyclohexasiloxane, Polyacrylate-13, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Allantoin, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil, Carbomer, Bisabolol, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium EDTA, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Butylene Glycol, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Salicylic Acid, Parfum, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the final moisturizing step before sunscreen (AM) or as the last layer at night. Because it contains SPF-contributing Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, always follow with a dedicated broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Start with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser suitable for oily or acne-prone skin. Pat your face dry with a clean towel — do not rub.
Apply Toner or Essence (Optional)
If you use a hydrating toner or serum, apply it first and allow it to absorb for 30–60 seconds before layering this moisturizer on top.
Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount
Scoop a small, pea-sized amount (approximately 0.3–0.5g) from the jar. A little goes a long way with this gel-cream formula — avoid over-application to prevent pilling under sunscreen.
Apply in Circular Motions
Dot the product across your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Gently massage in small circular motions until fully absorbed. Avoid the immediate eye area.
Follow with Sunscreen (AM Only)
Despite containing Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, the SPF contribution of this moisturizer alone is not sufficient for daily UV protection. Always finish your morning routine with a dedicated SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Use Twice Daily for Best Results
Apply morning and evening consistently for 4–8 weeks to see meaningful improvements in breakouts, oil control, and skin clarity. Consistent use with BHA delivers cumulative pore-refining benefits.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You want an affordable, lightweight daily moisturizer
- You struggle with blackheads, whiteheads, or frequent breakouts
- You need oil control and shine reduction throughout the day
- You want a moisturizer with built-in BHA exfoliation
- You have post-acne dark spots (PIH) you want to fade over time
- You're on a budget and want a drugstore-effective formula
Consider alternatives if:
- You have dry or very dehydrated skin needing rich nourishment
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains BHA + chemical sunscreen)
- You have confirmed fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You have severe rosacea or extremely reactive skin
- You are already using prescription retinoids or strong AHAs nightly
- You prefer fragrance-free skincare (contains Parfum)
- You need dedicated, high-SPF UV protection in a single product
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel-cream texture absorbs rapidly without adding shine. Salicylic Acid and silicones regulate sebum production and deliver a long-lasting matte finish throughout the day.
Balances well across both oily T-zone and drier cheek areas. Provides adequate hydration for normal zones while controlling shine in the forehead and nose without over-drying.
Formulated specifically for blemish-prone skin. The BHA + Tea Tree Oil + Licorice Root trio tackles active breakouts, unclogs pores, and fades post-acne marks simultaneously.
Allantoin and Bisabolol provide soothing support, but Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree Oil, and Parfum may cause irritation in highly reactive skin types. Mandatory patch test recommended for 48 hours before full use.
Water-based, oil-free formula is too lightweight for dry skin needing richer emollients. BHA can worsen dryness. Users with dry skin may experience tightness, flaking, or increased sensitivity.
Results timeline
MONTH 3+Immediate Hydration & Shine Control
Skin feels hydrated and balanced immediately after application. Silicones and Biosaccharide Gum-1 deliver instant moisture. Oil shine is visibly reduced within 1–2 hours of application — skin looks matte and fresh.
95% noticed reduced oilinessPore Clarification Begins
Salicylic Acid begins dissolving keratin plugs and loosening blackheads. Some users report a brief "purging" phase (increased surface breakouts) as BHA pushes congestion to the surface — this is normal and typically subsides within 1–2 weeks.
60% noticed fewer new breakoutsVisible Reduction in Active Breakouts
Existing pimples heal faster with the combined antibacterial action of Tea Tree Oil and BHA. Fewer new blemishes appear as sebum production becomes regulated. Pores begin to look visibly smaller and cleaner.
75% noticed fewer active breakoutsBrightening & Skin Clarity
Licorice Root Extract's brightening effect becomes noticeable, fading red and brown post-acne marks (PIH). Overall skin tone appears more even, radiant, and refined. Pore size appears reduced with consistent daily BHA use.
68% noticed improved skin tone & brightnessLong-Term Skin Health & Maintenance
With continued regular use, skin maintains a clearer, more balanced complexion with significantly fewer recurring breakouts. Post-acne hyperpigmentation continues to fade progressively over successive months.
80% reported clearer long-term skinRatings by platform
6K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptionally affordable drugstore price (RM 12–16 / ~USD 3–4)
- Lightweight gel-cream absorbs quickly without residue
- Effective at reducing oiliness and controlling shine
- Tea Tree Oil + BHA combination visibly reduces breakouts
- Licorice Root helps fade post-acne dark spots over time
- Non-comedogenic — does not cause new breakouts for most users
- Skin pH balanced for gentle everyday use
- Widely available at Watsons, Guardian, AEON Wellness, Shopee
- Suitable for face and neck application
Criticized
- Jar packaging is unhygienic — fingertip dipping can introduce bacteria
- Contains Parfum — not suitable for strict fragrance-free routines
- Not safe during pregnancy (BHA + chemical sunscreen)
- Potential fungal acne trigger (Ethylhexyl Palmitate ester)
- Too lightweight for dry or dehydrated skin types
- SPF contribution (Octinoxate) is insufficient as standalone sun protection
- May cause initial purging during the first 1–2 weeks of BHA use
- Tea Tree Oil scent may be overpowering for some users
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESShares the water-based, oil-free, lightweight gel-cream format targeting oily and combination skin. Contains Glycerin and emollients for hydration. Lacks BHA exfoliation and Tea Tree Oil antibacterial action — better for daily moisture without active acne treatment.
Shares many base ingredients including Allantoin, Dimethicone, and Cyclopentasiloxane. Contains a higher Salicylic Acid concentration for more aggressive acne control. Heavier feel compared to Aiken and may feel more occlusive on very oily skin.
A minimalist, fragrance-free moisturizer with amino acids, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin for barrier hydration. Fungal-acne safe and pregnancy-safe unlike Aiken. Lacks BHA and antibacterial actives — best for those who want to layer their actives separately and prefer a clean, simple formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Discard if the texture, color, or scent changes significantly before this time.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in humid bathrooms — the jar opening increases contamination risk with repeated fingertip use.
75ml jar / pot container with a screw-top lid. Use a clean spatula or disposable scoop to maintain hygiene and prevent contamination from fingers. Users strongly recommend transferring to a pump or tube where possible.
Yes — 75ml falls under the standard 100ml carry-on liquid limit for most airlines. The jar format is less leak-proof than a tube, so place inside a zip-lock bag when packing in hand luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis product is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without prior medical guidance. It contains Salicylic Acid (BHA), which at high doses is associated with risk during pregnancy, and Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate), a chemical UV filter that many dermatologists advise avoiding while pregnant. There are no animal or clinical studies confirming safety at these low cosmetic concentrations, but the general recommendation from OBGYNs and dermatologists is to avoid BHA-containing skincare during pregnancy as a precaution. Please consult your healthcare provider before using this product if you are pregnant or nursing.
Use with caution if you have confirmed fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis / malassezia folliculitis). The formula contains Ethylhexyl Palmitate — a fatty acid ester derived from palmitic acid and 2-ethylhexanol — which is known to potentially feed Malassezia yeast. It also contains Biosaccharide Gum-1, a ferment-derived ingredient. If you have active fungal acne, we recommend consulting a dermatologist and considering a fully fungal-acne-safe alternative such as The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA or a Niacinamide-based moisturizer formulated without esters or ferments.
Because this moisturizer already contains Salicylic Acid (BHA), you should avoid applying additional exfoliating acids (AHA: glycolic, lactic acid, mandelic acid; or additional BHA) in the same routine step — over-exfoliation can severely compromise your skin barrier and cause redness, peeling, and sensitivity. For retinol: use this moisturizer in the morning and retinol at night, or alternate nights. For Vitamin C: it is generally safe to use Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid serum) in the morning before this moisturizer, but avoid mixing them directly. Always introduce new actives gradually and monitor your skin's tolerance.
This moisturizer is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. Its water-based, oil-free, lightweight gel-cream formula absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue, making it ideal for those who struggle with excess sebum, shine, enlarged pores, and frequent breakouts. It is not recommended for dry or very dehydrated skin, as the formula may feel insufficient and the BHA content can further dry out skin lacking in natural oils. Sensitive skin types should patch test for 48–72 hours before full application due to the presence of Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree Oil, and Parfum.
Most users notice reduced oiliness and a matte finish within the first 1–3 days of use. The antibacterial effects of Tea Tree Oil and the pore-clearing benefits of Salicylic Acid become more noticeable after 2–4 weeks of consistent daily use — expect a potential brief purging phase in the first 1–2 weeks as BHA brings congestion to the surface. Significant reduction in active breakouts is typically observed at the 4–6 week mark. Brightening of post-acne dark spots (PIH) from Licorice Root Extract takes longer — approximately 8–12 weeks of consistent use to see meaningful fading.
Apply this moisturizer as the 4th step in your routine, after cleansing, toning, and applying any lightweight serums or essences. As the moisturizing step, it seals in the hydration delivered by previous layers. In the morning, always follow with a dedicated broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen — the Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate in this product contributes some UVB coverage but is insufficient as a standalone daily SPF. At night, this can be your final step. Recommended routine order: Cleanser → Toner → Serum/Essence → Aiken Tea Tree Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM only).
This product has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 2/5, meaning the risk of pore clogging is relatively low for most users. The formula is water-based and oil-free, with silicone-based emollients (Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane) rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Salicylic Acid actively works against pore clogging by dissolving the keratin and sebum that cause blackheads and whiteheads. However, Ethylhexyl Palmitate (rated 2–3/5) may contribute to comedones in individuals with very congestion-prone skin. The brand officially claims non-comedogenic status, and the majority of user reviews from oily and acne-prone skin types do not report new breakouts from this product.
The recommended Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. With twice-daily use of a pea-sized amount per application, a single 75ml jar typically lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 months, making it excellent value for money at its price point. To maximize shelf life and maintain formula integrity, always use a clean spatula or spoon rather than dipping fingers directly into the jar, store in a cool dry location away from sunlight and heat, and ensure the lid is firmly closed after each use. Discard immediately if you notice any change in color, texture, or scent before the 12-month mark.
Verdict: The Aiken Tea Tree Oil Moisturizer by Aiken is an outstanding value-for-money daily moisturizer for oily and acne-prone skin. Its thoughtful multi-active formula — combining Australian Tea Tree Oil, Salicylic Acid, Licorice Root Extract, and Biosaccharide Gum-1 — punches well above its drugstore price point, delivering real antibacterial, pore-refining, hydrating, and brightening benefits in a single lightweight product. The fast-absorbing, non-greasy gel-cream texture makes it comfortable for daily use in Malaysia's humid climate, and at just RM 12–16 for 75ml, it is one of the most accessible acne-targeting moisturizers available. The main limitations to consider are the unhygienic jar packaging, the presence of fragrance, the unsuitability for pregnancy and dry skin, and the partial (rather than complete) sun protection. For its target demographic — budget-conscious users managing oily, combination, or acne-prone skin — it remains a reliable, repurchased Malaysian skincare staple.
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 |
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance
|
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 3 |
Cyclopentasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Cyclohexasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
|
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