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Green Tea Cure for Acne Scars

Jul 14, 2011 | By Jonathan McLelland
Green Tea Cure for Acne Scars
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Acne is among the most common skin diseases, which may affect persons of all ages, yet it is most common among teenagers and pregnant women. Acne is caused by a release of hormones and various substances within the sebaceous glands, which results in clogged skin pores. The most common areas affected by acne include the back, neck, face, chest and shoulders. Acne treatment plans may include the topical application of synthetic ointments; however, the use of green tea to help treat acne may be an effective natural treatment option for acne sufferers and those with acne scars.

Green Tea Active Constituents

The University of Maryland Medical Center reports the medicinal qualities of green tea are provided by polyphenols, which is an umbrella term to define tea catechins. Researchers have found a total of six primary catechin compounds in green tea, which include epigallocatechin, epicatechin, epicatechin gallate, catechin, gallaogatechin and apigallocatechin gallate, also known as EGCG. These catechins are found to have antioxidant properties superior to vitamin C, and perhaps the healing qualities of green tea are due to its high antioxidant concentration. Other constituents found within green tea include alkaloids and L-theanine.

Green Tea and Acne Scars

The "Current Microbiology" journal reports the polyphenols found within green tea contain a high level of antibacterial properties, which was found effective in treating MRSA. The "Phytotherapy Research" journal further confirms green tea's ability to treat acne-causing bacteria, as green tea extract was able to inhibit the development of Propionibacterium acnes, which is the primary bacteria that causes pimples and inflammation.

Since green tea features a high concentration of antioxidants, topical application may help protect the skin from oxidative stress by increasing antioxidant count within the skin. Natural News reports those with acne have a lower skin antioxidant count than those with non-acne skin. By enhancing antioxidants within the skin, oxidative damage may be reduced. This reduction may have a direct effect on lowering sebum oil production, which may help prevent clogged pores and the development of Propionibacterium acnes.

While the use of green tea specifically for acne scars is being researched by the scientific community, the active compounds in green tea may help prevent acne lesions that result in scars and its antioxidant properties may help assist in skin cell repair, according to a study published by the "Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology."

Application Methods

Green tea may be internally consumed and topically applied to help with acne and acne scars. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests consuming two to three cups of freshly brewed green tea per day or consuming 100 to 750 mg of green tea extract tablets per day.

To directly apply green tea on the skin, bring 8 oz. of water to a rolling boil. Place 3 tsp. of fresh green tea leaves into the boiling water, and allow the tea to steep for five to 10 minutes. Allow the tea to rest for 30 minutes; leave the tea leaves in the water. Once the tea is cool to the touch, dip a clean washcloth into the tea. Gently apply the tea-soaked cloth to the face and other areas of the body suffering with acne scars.

Safety Considerations

Green tea is generally considered safe; however, since this tea contains stimulating alkaloids, those sensitive to caffeine may experience side effects such as dizziness, insomnia, heart palpitations and irritability. To eliminate these side effects, consume caffeine-free green tea products. If you are currently taking medications or using topical ointments for acne, discuss the use of green tea with your health-care provider.

References

Article reviewed by Khalid Adad Last updated on: Jul 14, 2011

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