From the Research
There is no standardized recommended dosing of tea tree oil (TTO) for chalazion treatment, and it should be considered a complementary approach rather than a primary treatment. Typically, a 5-10% dilution of tea tree oil in a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil is used, applied with a clean cotton swab to the affected eyelid 1-2 times daily. Before application, perform proper hand hygiene and dilute the tea tree oil appropriately, as undiluted tea tree oil can cause skin irritation or eye damage. Apply the diluted solution to the external eyelid area only, never directly into the eye, and discontinue use if irritation occurs.
While tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation associated with chalazions, medical evidence supporting its effectiveness for chalazions is limited, and traditional treatments like warm compresses, gentle massage, and consulting an eye care professional for possible medical intervention remain the standard of care for persistent chalazions 1, 2. A study from 2014 found that weekly lid scrub with 50% tea tree oil and daily lid scrub with tea tree shampoo was effective in preventing recurrence of chalazion associated with Demodex infestation 3. However, this study had a limited sample size and lacked a control group.
In terms of primary treatment, a 2023 study found that topical antibiotics and/or steroids did not decrease the odds of undergoing procedural treatment for chalazia, and that shorter pre-topical treatment chalazion duration correlated with a lower risk of procedural intervention 4. Another study from 2018 found that hot compresses alone or in combination with tobramycin or tobramycin/dexamethasone drops and ointment are all effective first-line treatment options for chalazia, but that physicians may consider moving directly to more invasive therapies for chalazia that have been present for more than 2 months 2.
Overall, while tea tree oil may be a useful complementary treatment for chalazions, traditional treatments and medical intervention remain the standard of care, and patients should consult an eye care professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. The most effective treatment approach will depend on the individual patient's condition and medical history, and should be determined on a case-by-case basis.