Scientists are exploring the role that polyphenols -- the antioxidants present in green tea -- play in the prevention and, in some cases, the improvement of the signs of aging skin. Among its healing powers, green tea may reduce inflammation and protect the skin against the breakdown of collagen, a naturally occurring protein that keeps the skin smooth. Because green tea may cause interactions with other medications, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before ingesting any herbal remedies.
Step 1
Blend 2 tbsp. of green tea powder with enough purified mineral or spring water to make a thin paste. Pat the mask onto your skin and allow it to dry for 10 minutes. Rinse off the mask with tepid water, pat the skin dry and apply moisturizer as usual.
Step 2
Drink two or three cups of green tea each day to get between 50 and 150 mg of polyphenols. If you do not enjoy the taste of green tea, dried leaf supplements are available. Read the label carefully to ensure you are buying a quality product without unnecessary fillers or additives.
Step 3
Apply an organic green tea moisturizer under your sunscreen. While the sunscreen will protect your skin from the sun's damaging rays, the antioxidant and photoprotective attributes of green tea will help maintain healthy skin tissue and provide additional protection against light-induced inflammation.
Step 4
Prepare a green tea facial toner to help remove impurities from the surface of your skin. Mix 2 tsp. of green tea powder with 4 oz. of boiling water, and steep the mixture for 10 minutes. Allow the tea to cool and apply it to the face each day with a cotton ball.
Step 5
Place two green teabags in a cup of hot water and steep just long enough to moisten the bags. Squeeze the tea from the bags with the back of a spoon and allow the bags to cool to the touch. Place the bags on your closed eyelids and leave in place for 10 minutes to decrease under-eye puffiness.
Tips and Warnings
- Although black, oolong and green tea originate from the leaves of the same plant, green tea is not fermented, which may explain its unique medicinal effects. Store homemade lotions and cosmetics in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
- Although preliminary information suggests green tea may be an effective treatment for some skin cancers, it is important that you talk to your doctor if you notice any sudden changes in the appearance of your skin.
Things You'll Need
- Green tea bags
- Green tea powder
- Green tea supplements
- Organic green tea moisturizer
Member Comments