Green tea has catechins – plant-based compounds that were found to possess antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Researchers have also found that they can also attack free radicals.
One of the famously known catechin compounds in green tea is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). EGCG is said to be the magic acne-busting antioxidant polyphenol. It was found to have 25-50 times more antioxidant activity than vitamins C and E. This EGCG helps in preventing testosterone from converting into DHT, which on the other hand, very beneficial for hormonal acne sufferers. It has powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibiotic effects that can help prevent or treat acne and lessen redness and inflammation caused by pimples thus preventing irritation and further infections.
Aside from this, green tea is also high in zinc, a mineral commonly present in topical creams because of its antimicrobial property. It also helps soothe skin and reduce swelling.
A 2016 study revealed that green tea supplements (especially EGCG) helped reduce inflammation and lesions around the nose, mouth, and chin in post-adolescent females.
Acne is triggered by too much sebum that causes dead skin cells to stick together and clog pores. We can prevent these acne breakouts by reducing this sebum production on the skin. Based on the result of the 2017 review of research studies, green tea contains polyphenols that helped prevent sebaceous glands from producing excess sebum or oil.
How To Use Green Tea To Treat Acne
Drink Green Tea
Try drinking two to three cups of green tea a day, either hot or cold. Brew green tea at home by using fresh green tea leaves and water or have a cup of it by steeping a tea bag on hot water. Avoid those ready to drink tea drinks as they contain more sugar than green tea.
Use Tea Bags
After steeping a tea bag in hot water, remove it and allow it to cool. Apply the bag directly on the face (make sure the face is clean) and rub gently in a circular motion around active acne.
Green Tea with Honey
Honey is another powerful ingredient against acne. It exhibits antibacterial properties and mild bleaching properties, which fight acne and fade acne marks, respectively. In addition to this, honey also acts as a natural moisturizer.
Materials:
- Green tea bag
- 1 Tablespoon Organic honey
- Hot water
- Facial cleanser
Directions:
- First, we need to steep the tea bag in hot water for at least 3 minutes. Remove the bag and allow it to cool. After that, we can now cut the bag and extract the green tea leaves and combine them with the honey.
- Clean the face and gently pat the skin dry. Apply the honey green tea leaves mixture on the face and leave on for 20 minutes. Now, rinse the face using cold water and let dry.
- Use this method for at least 3-4 times a week for the best results.
