Even as an adult I still get occasional acne flare-ups. Sometimes it’s small red bumps; other times it’s full-on pimples. Hormones are often the main culprit for my breakouts, but other triggers include sleeping with makeup on, stress, and certain foods.
Right now I’m dealing with a hormonal chin breakout and a few red bumps on my cheeks after indulging in holiday junk food, so it’s time to give my skin some TLC.
To help, I made a batch of these acne facial tabs, a copycat version of Lush’s Tea Tree Tabs. They combine the antibacterial, skin-soothing properties of tea tree (melaleuca) essential oil with the deep-cleansing benefits of steam.
To use, simply drop 1–2 of these homemade tabs into a bowl of hot, steamy water, then lean over the bowl with a towel over your head to trap the steam. It’s wonderfully relaxing and offers several skin benefits:
- reduces the appearance of pores
- deep cleanses the skin
- reduces inflammation
- gently soothes troubled skin
- speeds healing of pimples
This is an easy self-care routine to start the new season (or year) on the right foot.
What you’ll need
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- 1 cup baking soda
- 1/2 cup citric acid
- 20 drops tea tree (melaleuca) essential oil
- 2–3 tablespoons witch hazel
- mini spray bottle (optional, for applying witch hazel)
- mini silicone mold (about 2 tbsp size works best)
- bowl and spoon
- jar or container to store the finished facial tabs
How to make acne facial tabs with tea tree essential oil
Yield: 15–20 tabs (about 2 tablespoons each)
Step 1: Mix dry ingredients
Add 1 cup baking soda and 1/2 cup citric acid to a bowl. Mix well and break up any lumps with a spoon.
Step 2: Add tea tree oil
Add 20 drops of tea tree (melaleuca) essential oil and mix thoroughly so the oil is evenly distributed through the dry ingredients.
Step 3: Add witch hazel
Add 2–3 tablespoons witch hazel. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more only if needed. The mixture should resemble damp (but not wet) sand: it should form a ball but crumble easily when dropped.
Tip: Use a spray bottle to add witch hazel a little at a time. Too much liquid causes premature fizzing of the baking soda and citric acid, which you want to avoid until you activate the tabs with hot water.
Step 4: Fill molds
Spoon the mixture into silicone molds (I like a flower-shaped mold, but any silicone mold will work). Press down firmly with the back of a spoon or your fingers so the tabs hold together when dry. If the mixture is loose in the molds it may crumble later.
Step 5: Dry and unmold
Allow the tabs to dry completely before removing them from the molds. Drying time depends on humidity and can range from a few hours to a few days. In humid conditions, use a dehumidifier or move them to a drier location. When fully dry they will pop out easily.
Step 6 (optional): Label and store
Place finished tabs in a jar and attach a label if you like. Store in a cool, dry place to preserve fizz and scent.
How to use acne facial tabs
- Start with a clean face.
- Place 1–2 facial tabs into a wooden, glass, or ceramic bowl.
- Pour hot, steamy water over the tabs.
- Close your eyes to avoid steam or essential oil contact with eyes.
- Use a soft towel to make a tent over your head and the bowl to trap the steam.
- Keep your face over the steam for a couple of minutes to open and cleanse pores. If you get too hot, lift the towel and move away until you cool down, then resume.
- Pat your face dry with a clean towel.
- Apply a toner.
- Finish with a face serum to lock in moisture.
Where to get supplies
Common supplies include baking soda, citric acid, tea tree essential oil, witch hazel, a small spray bottle, and silicone molds. Store-bought or online retailers typically carry these items.
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Please note: Products mentioned in this article have not been evaluated by the FDA. The information on this page is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Always consult your medical doctor regarding your medical care. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this page.
Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links. If you click a link and purchase a product, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
