Tea Tree Skin Clearing Mattifying Toner
Tea Tree Skin Clearing Mattifying Toner
Product Description
Product overview
A purifying, shake-to-activate mattifying toner infused with Community Fair Trade tea tree oil from Kenya. Formulated with salicylic acid and witch hazel to help clear blemishes, control excess oil, and leave skin feeling refreshed and visibly clearer.
Community Fair Trade Tea Tree
Sustainably sourced from the foothills of Mount Kenya, hand-harvested without pesticides for maximum purifying power.
Texture & feel
SENSORYCommunity Fair Trade Tea Tree
Sustainably sourced from the foothills of Mount Kenya, hand-harvested without pesticides for maximum purifying power.
Shake-to-Activate Mattifying Powders
Tapioca starch particles settle at the bottom - shake before use to activate and control excess shine throughout the day.
BHA Exfoliation
Contains salicylic acid (from willow bark) to deeply cleanse pores, dissolve excess oil, and help prevent future breakouts.
Witch Hazel Toning
Natural astringent that helps tighten pores, reduce inflammation, and leave skin feeling refreshed and balanced.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains salicylic acid. While concentration is low, consult your healthcare provider. Topical SA under 2% is generally considered low-risk, but caution is advised.
Tea tree oil has proven antifungal properties that help combat malassezia yeast. Salicylic acid also helps keep fungal acne at bay.
Formulated to not clog pores. Key ingredients like tea tree oil and witch hazel are non-comedogenic and help keep pores clear.
Denatured alcohol is the second ingredient and may cause dryness or irritation for sensitive or dry skin types. Always follow with moisturizer.
Tea tree oil and salicylic acid can cause sensitivity in some individuals. Always patch test before first use, especially if you have reactive skin.
100% vegan formula. The Body Shop is Leaping Bunny certified and has never tested on animals since 1976.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTea Tree Oil (Melaleuca Alternifolia)Proven
The hero ingredient sourced from Kenya through Community Fair Trade. A powerful natural antibacterial and antifungal that helps purify skin without harsh chemicals.
- Clinical Evidence: Studies show 5% tea tree oil is as effective as 5% benzoyl peroxide for acne, with fewer side effects
- Mechanism: Contains terpinen-4-ol (40%) which disrupts bacterial cell membranes
- Benefit: Reduces acne-causing bacteria (P. acnes) and inflammation
Salicylic Acid ~0.5%Proven
A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates oil to exfoliate inside pores. Derived from willow bark extract in this formula for a more natural approach.
- Clinical Evidence: Gold standard for treating blackheads, whiteheads, and oily skin
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate sebum and dissolve pore-clogging debris
- Benefit: Unclogs pores, smooths texture, and prevents future breakouts
Witch Hazel (Hamamelis Virginiana)Proven
A natural astringent with centuries of traditional use. Helps tighten pores and soothe inflamed, irritated skin.
- Clinical Evidence: Demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
- Mechanism: Contains tannins that constrict skin tissue and reduce inflammation
- Benefit: Tones skin, minimizes pore appearance, and calms redness
Tapioca StarchMattifying
The secret behind the "shake-to-activate" formula. Natural starch particles that absorb excess oil and provide instant mattifying effect.
- Function: Oil-absorbing agent that controls shine
- Benefit: Creates smooth, matte finish without drying skin
- Usage: Settles at bottom - must shake well before each use
AllantoinSoothing
A gentle skin-soothing agent that helps counteract potential irritation from the active ingredients.
- Function: Skin protectant and conditioning agent
- Benefit: Promotes healing, reduces irritation, and softens skin
- Source: Naturally found in comfrey plant
Tamanu Oil (Calophyllum Inophyllum)Healing
A traditional Polynesian oil known for its skin-healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Clinical Evidence: Shows wound-healing and antimicrobial activity
- Benefit: Helps heal blemishes and reduce scarring
- Note: Despite being an oil, it's non-comedogenic
24 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Alcohol Denat., Tapioca Starch, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Hamamelis Virginiana Water/Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Glycerin, Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil/Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Alcohol, Allantoin, Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Oil, Salicylic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Sodium Hydroxide, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Limonene, Citral, Linalool, Leptospermum Petersonii Oil, Tocopherol, CI 19140/Yellow 5, Caramel, CI 42090/Blue 1.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse after cleansing, before serums and moisturizers. For best results, pair with the Tea Tree Facial Wash and follow with a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer.
How to use
HOW TO USEShake Well
The mattifying powders settle at the bottom. Give the bottle a good shake before each use to activate the formula.
Cleanse First
Use after washing your face with a gentle cleanser. Skin should be clean and slightly damp.
Apply with Cotton Pad
Dampen a reusable cotton pad with the toner and gently sweep across your face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
Let Absorb
Allow 30-60 seconds for the toner to absorb before applying your next skincare step.
Follow with Moisturizer
Always follow with a lightweight moisturizer to maintain skin hydration, especially if you have combination skin.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin that gets shiny throughout the day
- You struggle with blemishes, blackheads, or occasional breakouts
- You want a mattifying effect without heavy makeup
- You prefer natural, vegan skincare with proven actives
- You have fungal acne or malassezia-related skin concerns
- You want to support ethical, fair-trade beauty brands
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin (alcohol content may be too drying)
- You have extremely sensitive or reactive skin
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You dislike herbal/medicinal scents
- You prefer alcohol-free toners
- You need intense hydration from your toner
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match! Controls excess sebum, mattifies without over-drying, and keeps shine at bay all day. The tapioca starch absorbs oil beautifully.
Balances oily T-zone while the glycerin and allantoin prevent dry areas from feeling stripped. Focus application on oilier zones.
Tea tree oil and salicylic acid work together to fight acne-causing bacteria, unclog pores, and prevent future breakouts.
Works well for general pore maintenance and preventing occasional breakouts. May be more than needed for those without oil concerns.
The alcohol content may be too drying. If using, apply sparingly and always follow with a rich, hydrating moisturizer.
May cause stinging or irritation due to alcohol and active ingredients. Patch test required. Consider diluting or using less frequently.
Results timeline
WEEK 4+Instant Mattifying Effect
Skin feels refreshed and looks shine-free immediately after application. The cooling tea tree sensation is noticeable.
95% noticed instant mattifyingReduced Oiliness
Daily oil production begins to normalize. Skin stays matte for longer periods. Some users report a slight tingling that subsides with continued use.
78% reported less midday shineClearer, Smoother Skin
Blemishes start to heal faster. Skin texture improves as pores appear smaller. Clinical trials showed visibly clearer skin at this stage.
84% saw visibly clearer skinLong-Term Clarity
Consistent use leads to fewer breakouts overall. Pores remain cleaner, and skin maintains a balanced, healthy appearance.
72% reported fewer breakoutsRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effectively controls oil and shine throughout the day
- Helps clear blemishes and prevent new breakouts
- Ethically sourced, vegan, and cruelty-free
- Refreshing, cooling sensation
- Large bottle size offers good value
- Pores appear visibly smaller with regular use
- Safe for fungal acne sufferers
- Removes residual makeup and impurities effectively
Criticized
- High alcohol content can be drying
- May cause stinging on sensitive or broken skin
- Strong medicinal tea tree scent
- Not hydrating - requires moisturizer after
- Bottle requires shaking before every use
- Some report diminishing effectiveness over months
- Contains salicylic acid - pregnancy concerns
- May irritate skin around eyes if not careful
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains AHA and BHA for gentle exfoliation. Alcohol-free formula is gentler on sensitive skin. No mattifying powders, but similar clarifying effects. 150ml size.
Drugstore option with 2% salicylic acid and green tea. Similar oil-control benefits at a fraction of the price. Contains alcohol. No tea tree oil.
Alcohol-free witch hazel toner for those who find The Body Shop version too harsh. Milder formula, less acne-fighting power but more hydrating.
Also contains tea tree extract plus triple acid complex. More hydrating formula with niacinamide. Alcohol-free and suitable for sensitive skin. 150ml.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the PAO symbol on packaging for exact date.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep bottle upright to prevent leakage. Room temperature is fine.
Green plastic bottle with flip-top cap. Recyclable packaging. Shake well before each use to mix the settling mattifying powders.
250ml exceeds carry-on limits. The 60ml travel size is available and TSA-compliant. Decant into smaller container if needed.
Frequently asked questions
FAQCaution is advised. This toner contains salicylic acid, which is a BHA that some healthcare providers recommend avoiding during pregnancy due to its relation to aspirin. While the concentration is low and topical absorption is minimal, it's best to consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists considers topical salicylic acid at 2% or less to be low risk, but individual guidance is recommended. For breastfeeding, avoid applying to areas that may come into contact with your baby.
Yes! This toner is considered safe for fungal acne and may actually help treat it. Tea tree oil has proven antifungal properties that are effective against malassezia yeast, the culprit behind fungal acne. Additionally, the formula doesn't contain common malassezia triggers like fatty acids, fermented ingredients, or oils that feed the yeast. The salicylic acid also helps by keeping pores clear of the debris that malassezia thrives on.
Use with caution. This toner already contains salicylic acid (a BHA), so layering with additional AHA/BHA products may cause over-exfoliation, leading to irritation, dryness, or sensitivity. If using retinol, apply the toner in the morning and retinol at night to minimize irritation. For vitamin C, wait a few minutes between applications as the low pH of the toner may affect vitamin C stability. When in doubt, alternate days rather than layering actives.
This toner is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The mattifying powders and oil-controlling actives are specifically designed to combat excess sebum production. It's excellent for those who struggle with shine, enlarged pores, and frequent breakouts. However, it may be too drying for dry or sensitive skin types due to the alcohol content. If you have combination skin, you can apply it primarily to your T-zone and skip drier areas.
Results vary, but most users notice: Immediate mattifying effect and refreshed feeling after first use. Reduced oiliness and shine within the first week. Visibly clearer skin and fewer blemishes after 2 weeks (clinically validated). Long-term improvement in skin texture and fewer breakouts after 4+ weeks of consistent use. For best results, use twice daily (morning and evening) as part of a complete skincare routine.
Apply this toner as the second step in your routine, immediately after cleansing. The proper order is: 1) Cleanser, 2) This Toner, 3) Essence/Treatment (optional), 4) Serum, 5) Moisturizer, 6) Sunscreen (AM only). Remember to shake the bottle well before each use to activate the mattifying powders, and always follow with a moisturizer even if you have oily skin to maintain proper skin barrier function.
No, this toner has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it's very unlikely to clog pores. In fact, it's designed to do the opposite - the salicylic acid and tea tree oil actively work to unclog pores by dissolving sebum and dead skin cells. The formula is specifically created for blemish-prone skin and is suitable for those worried about congestion. However, everyone's skin is different, so if you notice any new breakouts, discontinue use.
The toner has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. After opening, it should be used within one year for optimal effectiveness and safety. The preservative system (phenoxyethanol and caprylyl glycol) helps maintain product stability. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you notice any changes in color, smell, or texture, or if the product separates and won't mix when shaken, it's time to replace it.
Verdict: The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Clearing Mattifying Toner is an effective, ethically-produced option for those battling oily, blemish-prone skin. The combination of Community Fair Trade tea tree oil, salicylic acid, and mattifying tapioca starch delivers visible results for oil control and clearer skin. While the alcohol content may concern some, the formula works well for its target audience. Best suited for oily and combination skin types who want natural, vegan skincare that actually works. Those with dry or sensitive skin should approach with caution or look at gentler alternatives. At its price point, it offers excellent value for a brand known for ethical sourcing and quality ingredients.
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
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylyl Glycol
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Humectant, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 3 |
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Perfuming, Surfactant, Fragrance, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hamamelis Virginiana Water
Astringent, Skin Conditioning, Soothing
|
|