Green tea is known for its many health benefits. People even call it a super food. On the skin, it can also work some magic. Compared to other teas, green tea has the most antioxidants. It even contains vitamins and minerals that boost antioxidant activity. Because of these properties, green tea reduces the risk of heart disease, hypertension, and some cancers. The drink also has antibacterial, antiviral, and neuroprotective powers.1 Super food, indeed. It’s also tasty, but don’t limit yourself. Green tea-infused face creams make it possible to use it on the skin. Here are three ways you’ll benefit.
1. Green Tea Can Treat Acne
Do you struggle with acne? You’re not alone. It affects 50 million Americans each year! Of course, that doesn’t make it any easier to deal with. Pimples can cause anxiety, embarrassment, and permanent scarring.2 As an antibacterial, green tea will help. After all, acne is technically an infection. It’s caused by the overgrowth of bacteria like Propionibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus epidermidis. You can thank polyphenols, the antioxidants in green tea.
These plant chemicals have powerful antibacterial properties, so they will kill acne-causing bacteria. Breakouts are also caused by sebum production. When the oil clogs up pores, the result is inflammation and acne. However, polyphenols control sebum production while reducing acne severity. Unlike harsh chemicals, green tea doesn’t have side effects.3 It’s a great reason to use green tea face creams.
2. Green Tea Makes Your Skin Look Young
As you get older, so does your skin. A protein called collagen starts to break down, leading to thinning and wrinkles. Exposure to sunlight will make it even worse.4 To slow down the process, apply green tea. Antioxidants strengthen the skin by promoting collagen production.5 In turn, the skin becomes stronger and plumper, making wrinkling less obvious. It can also aid pigmentation problems. Aging and sunlight are known for causing sun spots, freckles, and discoloration. With green tea, your skin will have protection.6
3. Green Tea Can Prevent Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in America. Like most diseases, genetics play a role, but lifestyle also matters. Using SPF and reducing exposure to sunlight is crucial.7
For more protection, apply green tea creams. The polyphenols protect the skin from ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, the harmful rays that cause skin cancer. When sunlight hits the skin, it wreaks havoc. UV rays form free radicals, suppress the immune system, and damage the cells. the anti-oxidative polyphenols can fight back.8
How To Use Green Tea
Green tea products are becoming more and more popular. At the health store, you can find creams, lotions, and ointments infused with green tea. Always check the label first. As a rule of thumb, you should be able to understand most (if not all) of the ingredients. The less chemicals, the better. Do a patch test first. If you have a bad reaction, stop using it immediately.
Want to make your own cream? Add a few drops of extract to coconut oil, cocoa butter, or your favorite face cream. Crushed green tea leaves can also be used in a mask.
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