A lightweight, watery serum powered by 67% Tea Tree Leaf Water and 19.5% Centella Asiatica Leaf Water — iUNIK's bestselling formula gently calms active breakouts, reduces post-acne redness, and delivers lasting hydration without irritation. Fragrance-free, vegan, and EWG Level 1 rated for the cleanest possible soothing care.

🇰🇷 K-Beauty · Made in South Korea

✔ Fragrance-Free ✔ Vegan ✔ Cruelty-Free ✔ Fungal Acne Safe ✔ Pregnancy Safe ✔ Alcohol-Free ✔ EWG Level 1 ✔ Non-Comedogenic

Pregnancy Safe

Yes ✔

Fungal Acne Safe

Yes ✔

Comedogenic Rating

1/5

📦

Volume

50 ml

🌿

Key Active

Tea Tree 67%

🧪

Ingredients

32 Total

📅

PAO

12 Months

🇰🇷

Origin

South Korea

✨ Texture & Feel

💧

Consistency

Watery Liquid

👃

Scent

Fragrance-Free

⏱️

Absorption

30–60 Seconds

🎯

Finish

Dewy / Soft

🌿

67% Tea Tree Leaf Water Base

Unlike harsh tea tree oil, the leaf water form is a gentle hydrosol — delivering anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits without drying out or sensitising the skin.

🍃

19.5% Centella Asiatica Leaf Water

Centella calms redness and irritation while promoting wound healing and collagen synthesis. This dual-water base makes soothing the primary function of every drop.

✨

Niacinamide for Brightening & Pore Care

At an estimated 3.8–5.7% concentration, niacinamide regulates sebum, minimises pore appearance, and fades post-acne hyperpigmentation over time.

🌱

Patented 6-Sprout Extract Complex

Broccoli, Cabbage, Alfalfa, Wheat Germ, Rapeseed, and Radish sprout extracts shield the skin barrier against environmental stress and deliver antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E.

💎

Adenosine for Anti-Aging Support

Clinically studied at 0.3–0.75%, adenosine helps reduce the appearance of dynamic wrinkles, making this a multi-benefit serum beyond simple acne care.

🔵

Beta-Glucan Deep Moisture

Beta-glucan forms a moisture-binding film on the skin surface, locking in hydration and reinforcing the skin barrier — ideal for sensitive skin recovering from breakouts.

🛡️ Safety & Compatibility

✅

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters. All ingredients are EWG Level 1 rated. Safe for use during pregnancy and nursing — always consult your doctor.

✅

Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Confirmed free from fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, and fermented ingredients that feed Malassezia. Verified safe by SkinCarisma and Folliculitis Scout.

✅

Non-Comedogenic (Rating: 1/5)

Water-based formula with no pore-clogging oils or silicones. Lightweight enough for oily and acne-prone skin without risking new breakouts.

✅

Alcohol-Free

Contains no drying or denatured alcohols. Preservatives used (Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin) are gentle and skin-compatible alternatives.

✅

Fragrance-Free & Dye-Free

No synthetic fragrance or added colorants. The natural pale green hue comes exclusively from plant-derived Chlorophyllin-Copper Complex, a safe deodorising agent.

⚠️

Commiphora Myrrha (Myrrh) Resin Extract

Listed near the bottom of the INCI (low concentration), but myrrh can occasionally irritate very reactive skin. Patch test recommended for those with known plant resin sensitivities.

⚠️

Contains Wheat (Triticum Vulgare)

Not a concern for topical use in most people, but individuals with severe wheat or gluten allergies should take note. Topical wheat extracts rarely cause reactions when applied to intact skin.

ℹ️

Compatible with Retinol, Vitamin C & AHA/BHA

This serum acts as a calming buffer. It can be layered before or after these actives to reduce irritation. Apply before retinol at night; apply after vitamin C or AHA in the morning.

🔬 Ingredient Breakdown

🌿 Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water 67% Hero Ingredient

The primary base of this serum — a hydrosol steam-distilled from tea tree leaves. Rich in terpinen-4-ol, the key bioactive compound responsible for tea tree's antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, but far gentler than the essential oil on skin.

Anti-inflammatory: Terpinen-4-ol suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-8), reducing active redness and swelling.
Antimicrobial: Disrupts bacterial cell membrane integrity; effective against C. acnes bacteria at sub-irritating concentrations.
Hydrating: As a water-based hydrosol, it simultaneously hydrates without the sensitising effects of tea tree oil.

✅

Leaf Water form is significantly milder than Tea Tree Essential Oil — suitable for daily use on sensitive skin.

🍃 Centella Asiatica Leaf Water 19.5% Proven

Centella Asiatica (also known as Cica or Gotu Kola) leaf water is a calming hydrosol that soothes irritation, supports wound healing, and helps reduce redness. Paired with the Tea Tree water, it forms a dual-soothing foundation unlike any other K-beauty serum at this price point.

Soothing: Madecassoside and asiaticoside compounds inhibit inflammatory pathways, visibly reducing post-breakout redness.
Barrier repair: Stimulates collagen and hydroxyproline synthesis, helping the skin recover and heal faster after blemishes.
Antioxidant: Centellacoside exhibits powerful antioxidant activity, protecting skin against environmental damage.

✨ Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~4–5% Proven

A multi-tasking powerhouse that brightens skin tone, reduces post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), minimises pore appearance, and regulates sebum production. Estimated at 3.8–5.7% based on WIMJ analysis.

Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer to keratinocytes, reducing the appearance of dark spots and acne scars.
Sebum regulation: Reduces sebaceous gland activity, helping balance oily and combination skin.
Barrier support: Increases ceramide synthesis, strengthening the skin barrier against dehydration and irritants.

💦 Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) ~1.4–2% Proven

The low-molecular-weight form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper into the epidermis to bind and retain moisture from within. Keeps skin plump and hydrated throughout the day without adding heaviness.

Humectant: Can hold up to 1,000× its weight in water, providing lasting moisture retention in the upper skin layers.

🌾 Patented 6-Sprout Extract Complex blend Promising

A proprietary blend of Broccoli, Cabbage, Alfalfa, Wheat Germ, Rapeseed, and Radish Seed sprout extracts. Packed with vitamins A, C, and E, these young plant cells help defend skin against oxidative stress and environmental aggressors.

Antioxidant: Rich in glucosinolates and isothiocyanates with documented free-radical scavenging properties.
Barrier protection: Helps the skin withstand UV, pollution, and stress-triggered inflammation.

🕰️ Adenosine ~0.3–0.75% Proven

A naturally occurring compound involved in cellular energy metabolism. Topical adenosine is KFDA-approved as an anti-wrinkle active — one clinical trial found it meaningfully reduces the appearance of dynamic wrinkles at low concentrations.

Anti-aging: Promotes collagen and elastin production, supporting skin firmness over time.

✅

One of few botanically-derived anti-aging actives with verified clinical trial data at the concentration used here.

🫐 Beta-Glucan trace–low Proven

A polysaccharide derived from yeast or oats that forms a moisturising film on the skin surface, enhancing barrier function and soothing sensitivity. Often called a "superior hyaluronic acid" for its ability to both hydrate and calm simultaneously.

Calming: Activates skin's own healing mechanisms, reducing irritation and redness triggered by breakouts.
Moisturising: Creates a protective layer that reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

🌟 Allantoin low Proven

A gentle skin-conditioning agent derived from comfrey root. Allantoin softens and soothes, promotes cell renewal, and helps speed the healing of blemish-damaged skin. Particularly valued for reducing the discomfort of irritated or post-acne skin.

Keratolytic (mild): Promotes healthy cell turnover without the harshness of acids, leaving skin smoother.

📋 Full Ingredients List (INCI)

32 ingredients

Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water (67%), Centella Asiatica Leaf Water (19.5%), Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Glycereth-26, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Sprout Extract, Brassica Oleracea Italica (Broccoli) Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Brassica Oleracea Capitata (Cabbage) Leaf Extract, Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Extract, Raphanus Sativus (Radish) Seed Extract, Beta-Glucan, Perilla Frutescens Leaf Extract, Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Extract, Aspalathus Linearis Extract, Commiphora Myrrha Resin Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Water, Betaine, Allantoin, Chlorophyllin-Copper Complex, Cellulose Gum, Xanthan Gum, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Adenosine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin

FREE FROM: Parabens · Sulfates · Silicones · Mineral Oil · Synthetic Fragrance · Synthetic Dyes · Denatured Alcohol · Retinoids · Salicylic Acid · PEGs · Chemical Sunscreen Filters

🔄 Where It Fits in Your Routine

Cleanser

Toner

This Serum

Moisturizer

Sunscreen (AM)

Face Oil (PM)

Apply after toner on slightly damp skin for best absorption. Use AM and PM. If layering serums, apply this first (lightest texture) then follow with heavier serums.

📝 How to Use

Cleanse Thoroughly

Begin with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities. Pat your face dry, leaving skin slightly damp to aid serum absorption.

Apply Toner (Optional)

If using a hydrating or exfoliating toner, apply it before the serum. Allow it to absorb for 30 seconds.

Dispense 2–4 Drops

Using the glass dropper, dispense 2–4 drops onto your palm or directly onto target areas. A little goes a long way with this watery formula.

Pat Gently Until Absorbed

Spread the serum across the face using gentle patting motions. Avoid rubbing. Focus extra product on acne-prone areas, red spots, or irritated patches.

Follow with Moisturizer

Seal in the serum with a moisturizer suited to your skin type. For dry skin, choose a richer cream. For oily skin, a lightweight gel-cream works best.

Apply SPF in the Morning

Always finish your morning routine with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. Niacinamide works best for hyperpigmentation when UV exposure is minimised.

👤 Who Is It For?

✅ Perfect for you if:

You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin with frequent breakouts or redness
You are dealing with fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
You want a fragrance-free, vegan serum safe for sensitive skin
You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe active treatment
You want to fade post-acne marks and even skin tone gently
You prefer minimalist, clean, naturally-derived K-beauty formulas
You need a lightweight serum that layers easily under other products

❌ Consider alternatives if:

You have very dry or dehydrated skin and need intensive moisture — pair this with a richer moisturizer or add a hydrating serum first
You need high-strength exfoliation (AHA/BHA) for stubborn comedones — this serum does not exfoliate
You need a prescription-strength acne treatment for severe or cystic acne
You are allergic to tea tree, centella, or wheat-based ingredients
You prefer a thick, occlusive serum texture over a watery consistency

🎯 Skin Type Compatibility

Oily Skin ★★★★★ Excellent

Ultra-lightweight watery texture absorbs instantly and never adds shine. Niacinamide actively regulates sebum production for long-term oil control.

Acne-Prone Skin ★★★★★ Excellent

Designed specifically for blemish-prone skin. Tea tree's antimicrobial action targets acne bacteria while centella calms redness and speeds healing.

Combination Skin ★★★★★ Excellent

Lightweight enough not to over-moisturise the T-zone, yet hydrating enough for drier areas. A balanced, go-everywhere formula for mixed skin types.

Sensitive Skin ★★★★☆ Good

Fragrance-free and EWG Level 1 rated — ideal for easily reactive skin. Patch test recommended due to the myrrh resin extract for highly sensitised individuals.

Dry Skin ★★★☆☆ Moderate

Provides hydration via HA and beta-glucan, but the watery texture may not be sufficient alone for dry skin. Best layered under a nourishing moisturizer or paired with a hydrating serum.

Fungal Acne Prone ★★★★★ Excellent

One of the few soothing serums that is fully verified fungal-acne safe. No fatty acids, esters, or ferments — completely compatible with malassezia-prone skin.

📈 Results Timeline

Days 1–3

Immediate Calm & Comfort

Most users notice a cooling, soothing sensation on first application. Redness around active blemishes typically appears less angry, and skin feels more balanced and comfortable within the first few uses.

85% noticed immediate soothing

Week 1–2

Reduced Redness & Fewer New Breakouts

With consistent twice-daily use, active spots appear less red and heal faster. Many users report fewer new breakouts forming as the antimicrobial tea tree water begins controlling blemish-causing bacteria.

72% saw visible redness reduction

Week 3–4

Clearer Complexion & Even Skin Tone

Niacinamide begins showing its brightening effect, gradually fading post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots left after breakouts). Skin texture becomes smoother and overall tone more uniform.

68% noticed tone improvement

Month 2–3

Sustained Clarity & Anti-Aging Benefits

Long-term users report maintained skin clarity with significantly less frequent breakouts. Adenosine and centella contribute visibly to firmer, more youthful-looking skin. Post-acne marks continue to fade.

61% reported sustained acne reduction

⭐ Ratings by Platform

🛒 Amazon

★★★★ 4.4

Rating

3,200+

Reviews

⚠️ Main complaint: May not provide sufficient hydration for very dry skin on its own; some users noted minimal effect on severe acne.

🌿 iHerb

★★★★ 4.5

Rating

600+

Reviews

⚠️ Main complaint: A small number of users felt the serum was slightly sticky upon application in humid conditions.

🌸 YesStyle

★★★★ 4.6

Rating

1,400+

Reviews

⚠️ Main complaint: Occasional reports of skin not improving for hormonal acne; works better for stress and environmental breakouts.

✨ Stylevana

★★★★ 4.4

Rating

400+

Reviews

⚠️ Main complaint: A few users found the 50ml dropper bottle dispensed more product than needed, leading to wastage.

⚖️ Pros & Cons

✅ Praised

67% tea tree leaf water — genuinely high concentration of the soothing active
Fragrance-free, vegan, cruelty-free, and EWG Level 1 rated
Verified fungal acne safe and pregnancy safe
Visibly reduces redness and calms active breakouts quickly
Niacinamide fades post-acne dark spots over time
Ultra-lightweight — layers effortlessly under any moisturizer or SPF
Excellent value for the ingredient quality and 50ml size
Glass dropper bottle is eco-friendly and hygienic

❌ Criticized

Not hydrating enough on its own for dry or very dehydrated skin types
Won't clear severe or cystic acne — better as a preventive and calming serum
Effects on hormonal acne are limited compared to targeted actives
Myrrh resin extract may irritate the most sensitive skin in rare cases
The dropper can dispense too much product at once if tilted too far
Contains wheat extract — a potential concern for those with severe gluten allergies

💰 Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)

82% Match

Pyunkang Yul Acne Serum

$14.00 Budget Pick

Another minimalist K-beauty acne serum focused on centella asiatica and soothing actives. Very similar positioning and price range, with a slightly more concentrated centella approach. Fungal acne safe and fragrance-free — excellent alternative for those who prefer a centella-forward formula.

72% Match

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

$6.50 Budget Pick

Shares the niacinamide brightening and pore-reducing benefits at a much lower price. However, it lacks tea tree water, centella, and the 6-sprout complex. Better for hyperpigmentation; less effective for active soothing and antimicrobial benefits. Fungal acne safe.

70% Match

SOME BY MI Tea Tree SOS Serum

$18.00 Similar Price

Shares the tea tree focus and K-beauty acne-soothing positioning. Contains tea tree oil extract (not leaf water) which can be slightly more potent but also more likely to irritate. SOME BY MI includes more active acids — better for those wanting exfoliation alongside soothing. Not fully fungal acne verified.

🔄 Comparison with Competitors

iUNIK Tea Tree Relief Serum ⭐ Our Pick

~$16

Key Active Tea Tree Water 67% + Centella 19.5%

Size 50 ml

Fungal Acne Safe Yes ✔

Fragrance-Free Yes ✔

Pregnancy Safe Yes ✔

Niacinamide Yes (~4–5%)

Comedogenic Rating 1/5

SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum

~$19

Key Active AHA + BHA + PHA Blend

Size 50 ml

Fungal Acne Safe No ✗

Fragrance-Free No ✗

Pregnancy Safe Caution ⚠️

Niacinamide Yes

Comedogenic Rating 2/5

COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

~$22

Key Active Snail Secretion Filtrate 96%

Size 100 ml

Fungal Acne Safe No ✗

Fragrance-Free Yes ✔

Pregnancy Safe Yes ✔

Niacinamide No ✗

Comedogenic Rating 1/5

PURITO Centella Unscented Serum

~$21

Key Active Centella Asiatica Extract 49%

Size 60 ml

Fungal Acne Safe Yes ✔

Fragrance-Free Yes ✔

Pregnancy Safe Yes ✔

Niacinamide No ✗

Comedogenic Rating 1/5

📦 Storage & Shelf Life

📅

Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening. Use within this window for optimal efficacy and safety of the active ingredients.

🏠

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Refrigeration is optional but can enhance the product's refreshing, cooling sensation on application.

📦

Packaging

Glass dropper bottle (50 ml). The glass material protects active plant compounds from degradation. The pipette allows precise, hygienic dispensing.

✈️

Travel Friendly

Yes — 50 ml is within airline carry-on liquid limits (under 100 ml). Secure the dropper cap tightly before travel. The glass bottle is durable but wrap for protection.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is iUNIK Tea Tree Relief Serum pregnancy and breastfeeding safe?

Yes — this serum is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids (vitamin A derivatives), no salicylic acid (BHA), no hydroquinone, and no chemical UV filters, which are the key ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. All 32 ingredients are EWG Level 1 rated. That said, individual sensitivities can vary, so consult your healthcare provider or OB-GYN before introducing any new skincare product into your routine during pregnancy.

Is iUNIK Tea Tree Relief Serum fungal acne (Malassezia) safe?

Yes — the iUNIK Tea Tree Relief Serum is verified fungal acne safe by both SkinCarisma and Folliculitis Scout. The formula is free from fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, fermented ingredients, and other compound classes known to promote the growth of Malassezia yeast. This makes it one of the few effective acne-targeting serums that is simultaneously safe for fungal acne sufferers. Always continue monitoring your skin and consult a dermatologist for a confirmed fungal acne diagnosis.

Can I use iUNIK Tea Tree Relief Serum with retinol, vitamin C, or AHA/BHA?

Yes — this serum is actually an excellent companion to actives. Its centella asiatica, beta-glucan, and allantoin help calm the irritation that retinol and acids can cause. For best results: in the morning, apply this serum before or after vitamin C, then follow with SPF. At night, apply this serum before retinol or after an AHA/BHA treatment to soothe any potential irritation. If your skin is particularly reactive to acids, use this serum on alternating nights to give your skin a recovery window. Avoid applying retinol and strong AHAs/BHAs in the same step as this serum.

What skin type is iUNIK Tea Tree Relief Serum best for?

This serum is best suited for oily, combination, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types. It is particularly outstanding for anyone dealing with fungal acne, stress breakouts, or post-breakout redness. It is also excellent for skin prone to environmental irritation. Those with very dry or dehydrated skin may find the watery formula insufficient as their primary hydration step — in that case, pair it with a richer moisturizer or layer it beneath a more hydrating serum. All skin types can benefit, but oily and blemish-prone skin types will see the most dramatic results.

How long until I see results from iUNIK Tea Tree Relief Serum?

Most users notice immediate soothing and reduced redness within the first 1–3 days of use. Visible improvement in active breakouts typically occurs within 1–2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. For niacinamide-driven benefits like fading dark spots and evening skin tone, allow 4–8 weeks. Long-term users report sustained clarity and significantly fewer breakouts after 2–3 months. Results vary based on skin type, severity of acne, lifestyle, and other products in your routine.

Where does iUNIK Tea Tree Relief Serum go in my skincare routine?

Apply this serum as step 3 in your routine — after cleansing and toning, before moisturizer. As a watery, low-viscosity serum, it should be one of the first treatment products applied to allow maximum penetration. If you are layering multiple serums, apply this serum first (thinnest to thickest rule), then follow with heavier serums or essences. In the morning, finish with SPF. At night, finish with moisturizer and optionally a face oil. It can be used both morning and night.

Is iUNIK Tea Tree Relief Serum comedogenic? Will it clog pores?

No — this serum has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, making it extremely unlikely to clog pores. The formula is water-based and contains no pore-clogging oils, heavy silicones, or known comedogenic emollients. The brand itself confirms the product is non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic. Thousands of user reviews across Amazon, iHerb, and YesStyle corroborate that this serum does not cause breakouts or congestion, even on acne-prone skin.

How long does iUNIK Tea Tree Relief Serum last after opening?

The iUNIK Tea Tree Relief Serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. With typical twice-daily use of 2–4 drops per application, one 50 ml bottle generally lasts 2–3 months. Store the product in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. If stored correctly, its efficacy and safety remain optimal throughout the 12-month window. Discard the product if you notice a significant change in color, smell, or consistency before the PAO expires.

★★★★☆

4.5 out of 5

Verdict: The iUNIK Tea Tree Relief Serum is one of the most thoughtfully formulated affordable K-beauty serums available. At 67% Tea Tree Leaf Water and 19.5% Centella Asiatica Leaf Water, it delivers genuine soothing and antimicrobial benefits without the sensitising harshness of essential oils. Niacinamide, beta-glucan, adenosine, and the patented 6-sprout complex add brightening, barrier-supporting, and anti-aging value that far exceeds the price point. Completely fragrance-free, vegan, pregnancy safe, and fungal-acne safe — it ticks nearly every box for conscientious skincare shoppers. The only caveat: pair it with a richer moisturizer if you have dry or dehydrated skin. For oily, combination, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types, this is a near-perfect daily serum.