Beauty benefits of green tea

beauty benefits of green tea

Green tea is not a newfound beauty miracle. The Chinese have been drinking green tea for thousands of years, and they believe it has properties that keep us youthful and healthy. Green tea has made its way into many of the biggest cosmetic companies, valued for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and it is claimed to reduce acne. What about green tea makes it so special?

Green Tea Research

Research shows that green tea extract is packed with antioxidants called catechins. These antioxidants are important because they combat free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that are missing an electron. They steal electrons off healthy molecules around them, which can lead to issues within the body. Free radicals can form in the skin for a number of reasons. It is said one puff of a cigarette generates millions of free radicals. The most common way free radicals form is from UV radiation from the sun.

Studies indicate that green tea can neutralize the damage done by UV radiation. It does not block the rays like sunblock, rather it neutralizes the inflammation and free radicals caused by the sun. So, although it does not take the place of sunblock, it can work hand in hand to keep the skin protected.

Because green tea is such a good anti-inflammatory it is well suited for those sensitive skin types out there. Although it is gentle enough to help people with rosacea and psoriasis, it also has strong enough antibacterial qualities to fight acne.

Because of the antioxidants in green tea and the anti-inflammatory effects it has on the skin, green tea is likely to slow down signs of aging.  Whether green tea can actually turn back the hands of time is still unsure. One thing is for sure, though, green tea has held up to the test of time and is continued to be studied for its healthy properties.

Recipe for green tea moisturizing spritz

·Combine 1 cup of spring water and a few pieces of lemon peel, bring to a boil

·Steep a fair amount if green tea in hot liquid (loose leaf is recommended but tea bag is fine too)

·Strain leaves and lemon peel and use as spritz

Optional

·Add a teaspoon of witch hazel to liquid to create a toner.

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