Eucalyptus Oil in Skin Care: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects and More

• Eucalyptus essential oil contains anti-inflammatory properties believed to reduce the symptoms of acne and eczema.
• This oil has been shown to boost ceramide production, a fatty acid that helps the skin retain moisture.
• While there’s a lack of scientific studies to support eucalyptus oil as a viable treatment for acne, eczema and other skin conditions, the wealth of anecdotal evidence suggests it may be effective in doing so.

Eucalyptus oil is classified as an essential oil, and is derived from the leaves of eucalyptus trees. Known for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and pain-killing qualities, this oil is used medicinally for analgesic, anticatarrhal, expectorant, antispasmodic, insecticidal and antiviral purposes.

Eucalyptus leaves are particularly rich in antioxidants, containing many flavonoids that protect the body from oxidative stress and damage stemming from harmful free radicals. 

The primary flavonoids found in eucalyptus leaves are all compounds believed to play a role in protecting the body from heart disease and some cancers, as well as offering several benefits to the skin.

Skin Care Benefits of Eucalyptus Oil 

Eucalyptus oil contains certain healing properties, and can be effective in treating cuts, insect bites, minor wounds, sores and contusions. It has also been found to treat symptoms of the herpes simplex virus.

As with many essential oils, it’s considered to be an effective natural moisturizer, while it’s anti-inflammatory compounds can treat skin issues such as acne and eczema. Because eucalyptus essential oil is antiseptic and antibacterial, it helps cleanse the epidermis of impurities that contribute to acne breakouts. 

Although the evidence is anecdotal, some believe eucalyptus oil will both lighten and tighten the skin, reducing the visibility of wrinkles and lightening dark spots. For these reasons, a variety of skin care products contain eucalyptus leaf extract.

Skin lightening

In spite of the claims made by some cosmetic and essential oil companies that products containing eucalyptus oil will lighten the skin, there is little legitimate scientific study available to confirm this. 

Anti-inflammatory

Inflammation is a healing response that causes increased blood flow to a specific area of the body as a response to harmful stimuli such as irritants or bacteria. By promoting blood circulation, eucalyptus oil can reduce blood flow to the area and ease inflammation.

One of the primary components of eucalyptus oil is eucalyptol, or cineole, a prominent oxide found in certain essential oils. Eucalyptol contains powerful anti-inflammatory benefits that, when applied topically, work to rejuvenate and invigorate the skin.  

Eczema

Science has not yet determined the exact cause of eczema, however the consensus is that it is due to an overactive immune system that, when triggered by particular allergens, causes skin inflammation. Symptoms include redness, itching and dry, scaly or cracked skin. 

With an eczema flare-up, the body produces a surplus of enzymes, particularly the COX-2 enzyme. Evidence indicates the anti-inflammatory compounds found in eucalyptus oil are effective in reducing levels of this enzyme. 

Ceramide production

Ceramides are a type of fatty acid found in the epidermis that are responsible for maintaining the skin’s barrier and retaining its moisture. Eucalyptus contains a compound called macrocarpal A, which has been shown to boost ceramide production. 

In one study, topical application of eucalyptus oil improved the appearance of the skin by increasing its ceramide content.

Antibacterial

Eucalyptus oil’s antibacterial properties make it an effective cleanser, particularly as a treatment for those with certain skin infections and acne. These antibacterial properties have been used to treat boils, bacterial dermatitis, chicken pox, herpes (cold sores) and fungal infections.   

How to Use Eucalyptus Oil

As pure eucalyptus oil is highly concentrated, it must first be diluted with a carrier oil for safe application. You may use almond, apricot kernel, fractionated coconut, jojoba or avocado oil. The general rule is 5–10 drops of eucalyptus oil per one ounce of carrier oil. 

Similarly, it can be used as an ointment by adding 2–3 drops to petroleum jelly and applied to the treatment area three or four times a day.

To treat a specific condition such as eczema, apply 2–3 drops of the diluted oil directly to the affected skin.

As an antiseptic spot treatment for a skin issue such as acne, blend 1 drop of eucalyptus oil with 3 drops of water and apply to the area with a cotton swab.

When purchasing skin care products that contain this essential oil, read the product label carefully to determine the concentration. Follow the instructions carefully to understand the proper use.

Risks and Side Effects 

Pure eucalyptus oil is a highly concentrated substance, and as such is unsafe to consume in small amounts without dilution. It can be fatal if ingested in large quantities. 

When applied topically, as with many essential oils, it must first be diluted with a carrier oil or it could cause severe irritation. Avoid contact with the eyes, nose and mouth areas, as well as any cracked or open skin.

Because even topical applications of essential oils will be processed by your digestive and excretory systems, they will pass through your liver and kidneys. Those with liver or kidney disease should avoid using eucalyptus oil. 

Not enough information is available to determine if eucalyptus is safe to use during pregnancy or lactation, therefore it’s not recommended to apply this oil without first consulting a health professional.

Should You Be Using Eucalyptus Oil?

Any adult, other than those with the specific conditions listed above (primarily liver and kidney disease and pregnant/lactating women), can safely apply diluted eucalyptus oil to address their skin concerns.

Skin type 

Nearly all skin types—oily or dry—could consider eucalyptus oil to address their acne, eczema or psoriasis issues. Its pain-relieving qualities could also be used to treat minor cuts and skin irritations. However, it has been found to cause contact dermatitis in a small number of people. 

Those who are particularly susceptible to allergic contact dermatitis may want to avoid using eucalyptus oil, or they may choose to perform a thorough patch test first. Although actual reports of dermatitis associated with eucalyptus oil are limited, researchers believe this may simply be due to lack of reporting or testing.  

Acne-prone skin

There is a fairly wide body of anecdotal evidence to suggest that the antiseptic properties of eucalyptus oil on skin can effectively kill acne-causing bacteria residing in the epidermis, reducing the frequency of outbreaks.

While the science behind eucalyptus as an acne remedy remains preliminary, there is some proof to indicate it could be effective. Eucalyptus oil has been demonstrated to help reduce the intensity of and discomfort associated with certain types of acne. 

Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe skin irritated by inflammatory acne; it also has an inhibitory effect on the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause acne.  

Alternatives to Eucalyptus Oil

There is a wealth of over-the-counter (OTC) skin care products available that, similar to eucalyptus oil, have antibacterial, moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Moisturizers

There are several kinds of moisturizers that are suitable for all skin types. 

For oily and acne-prone skin, choose a light hydrator such as hyaluronic acid (HA) or glycerine so as not to irritate acne. Avoid occlusive moisturizers, which are often waxy and form a layer over the skin that can block pores. 

For those with very dry skin—including those who suffer from eczema—look for a moisturizer that will help repair the skin’s natural barrier. Emollients, for instance, contain fatty acids and cholesterols that help repair the skin’s moisture barrier. These are often combined with emulsifiers to lock-in water and provide immediate hydration. 

Ceramide cream 

While eucalyptus oil helps to boost ceramide production, another option is to simply use a ceramide cream. Ceramides are lipids that are part of the skin’s natural moisture barrier. When  added to creams, they not only hydrate skin, they are also able to improve the skin’s ability to retain moisture.    

Antibacterial creams and cleansers 

Although eucalyptus oil does have antibacterial properties, there are also some scientifically tested medicinal options to choose from. In the event of bacterial infections, look for topical creams containing mupirocin or fusidic acid. These two ingredients are effective antibacterials that can treat a variety of superficial skin conditions. 

One of the main causes of acne is the accumulation of bacteria on the skin and in the pores called Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes). Antibacterial cleansers can be effective treatments for this; look for cleansers that contain benzoyl peroxide (BP), a well-tested ingredient that has been shown to reduce C. acnes.  

Hyaluronic acid

HA is a molecule that is naturally synthesized in the body. It  helps skin retain moisture and plays a role in regulating inflammation. 

For moisture retention, choose an HA serum. Serums carry their active ingredients at a lower molecular weight, and it has been shown that these serums have a more effective hydrating effect due to this weight. 

For help reducing inflammation, look for HA creams or lotions. These products will often contain HA formulated at a higher molecular weight, shown to be beneficial as an anti-inflammatory. 

Hydrocortisone

Topical hydrocortisone is a mild steroid that reduces redness, itching and inflammation. It can be purchased OTC as a gel, lotion, cream or ointment, offering temporary relief from the itching and inflammation associated with eczema.

Coal tar

Sold in various formulations such as gels, ointments, creams and soaps, some individuals turn to coal tar to treat psoriasis and eczema. Coal tar is believed to reduce the rate of skin cell growth while softening the upper layer of the epidermis, which in turn helps with the removal of scales and allows the skin to retain moisture. 

Other essential oils 

Many essential oils have similar medicinal properties to eucalyptus oil and can provide many of the same skin benefits including

Benefit	Essential Oil Options
Anti-inflammatory	Chamomile Rose Thyme Tea tree Clove
Antibacterial and/or acne treatment	Chamomile Thyme  Tea tree Clove Frankincense Lemon
Dry skin relief	Chamomile  Rose  Sandalwood

Takeaway

The most effective and well-proven benefits of eucalyptus oil are its antibacterial, moisturizing, and anti-inflammatory properties. Further, it has also been shown to treat eczema and acne flare-ups, as well as promote wound healing and provide pain relief for minor cuts and scrapes. 

Eucalyptus oil is often sought after as a natural remedy and its ability to work well for nearly all skin types. However it does have some risks. To use eucalyptus oil effectively, it must be diluted and applied to the skin in minute amounts. If you are particularly susceptible to allergic reactions, be sure to do a patch test first. 

Ingestion of pure eucalyptus oil can lead to serious health problems: those at risk of liver or kidney problems, and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid using eucalyptus oil. 

If you feel eucalyptus oil is not right for you, there are a number of OTC alternatives to choose from including moisturizers, ceramide and anti-bacterial creams, hydrocortisone and comparable essential oils.