With the abundance of botanical plants available, we don’t need to look far for skincare ingredients. There’s a high chance that these ingredients have been subsumed as part of a beauty routine for thousands of years ago. Whenever we think of such ingredients, green tea is without a doubt on top of the list. Aside from the fact that it is rich in antioxidants, green tea is actually equally beneficial for consumption and skin. Whether you’re a coffee lover or not, a cup of matcha latte or even just plain hot green tea is definitely a perfect way to start your day. However, if you haven’t started incorporating it into your skincare routine, you are certainly missing out on its efficacy. Just think of it like a perk-me-up for your skin. Well, there’s a good reason why beauty brands have been religiously formulating their products to include green tea extract, right? 

Brief Information

What is the main benefit?

This antioxidant-rich ingredient delivers comprehensive benefits to the skin which includes soothes irritation, regulating excess sebum, protecting against environmental aggressors and reversing the signs of ageing

Who should use it?

It is ideal to be used on all skin types unless you have a super sensitive skin

How to use it?

Green tea is suitable for daily usage when applied topically and it is recommended that you pair it together with other antioxidants ingredients for optimal outcomes

What is Green Tea? 

Photo by Timothy Newman on Unsplash

Green tea derives from a botanical plant scientifically known as Camellia sinensis. You might also be surprised to know that a similar plant actually produces black and oolong teas. However, it merely depends on the preparation in which green tea involves the leaves being steamed, pan-fried and dried. The presence of polyphenols or catechins in green tea deliver wonderful benefits to the overall skin as it is packed with antioxidants and soothing properties. In a study published in a Journal of Ethnopharmacology, it was found that the Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) in green tea indicates various therapeutic benefits including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetes, anti-myocardial infarction and anti-atherosclerosis

With its astounding benefits and properties, it is not a surprise that you can find tons of beauty products from cleansers, moisturisers, masks, to serums that are formulated with green tea extract. If you’re a true green tea aficionado at heart, you will surely know the burning question that people have been asking discreetly, which green tea is the best for skin? Fret not as we will get straight to the point. One of the ways to ensure that you get your hands on the highest quality of green tea is to make sure that they are labelled organic or 100% pure without any addictive or additional ingredients.

If you’re looking for the highest quality of green tea for skin, matcha is the one for you as it is packed with 137 times more Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) than regular green tea. Similar to other antioxidants ingredients, green tea is actually very unstable and oxidises easily, so it can be quite difficult to formulate it. Thereby, storing the product properly and knowing how the ingredient is sourced can help you to prolong its efficacy. 

The Benefits of Green Tea For Skin

With its multi-benefits, this all-rounder ingredient is a perfect addition to all skin types, from acne, sensitive to ageing skin. Amongst the known improvements that it delivers to the skin includes:

  • Regulates excess sebum
  • Protects the skin from environmental aggressors and harmful rays
  • Soothes inflammation and redness
  • Minimises the appearance of ageing
  • Prevents puffiness
  • Treats acne

The Side Effects of Using Green Tea

Since green tea is suitable for all skin types, there are no adverse side effects that are associated with it. On the contrary people with existing reactions to green tea should use it with caution and it also includes those with super dry or hypersensitivity skin. However, do note that oftentimes such irritation might occur due to the presence of other ingredients in the formulation like preservatives or fragrances. If you experience such skin reactions, the best way to determine the exact cause is by consulting with your doctor. 

The List of Beauty Products that are Formulated with Green Tea

Cosrx Hydrium Green Tea Aqua Soothing Gel Cream

Cosrx Hydrium Green Tea Aqua Soothing Gel Cream is packed with a powerful blend of botanical ingredients to nourish your skin. With green tea extract as its star ingredient, it works collectively with aloe ferox leaf extract to soothe inflammation, acne and sunburn. What’s more, these wonder ingredients deliver a cooling sensation that will instantly refresh your skin. Aside from its ultra-lightweight texture, it has a high absorption rate that does not leave any greasy residue on the skin. 

Why we love it:

  • Lightweight texture
  • Non-oily formula
  • Cooling sensation

Price: $27.90 (Original price $29.90)

  Add to cart

By Wishtrend Green Tea & Enzyme Powder Face Wash 

By Wishtrend Green Tea & Enzyme Powder Face Wash is a perfect addition for some TLC sessions It is expertly formulated with green tea powder, papain enzyme and vitamins to gently exfoliate the skin, revealing a brighter and softer looking complexion. It has a gentle yet effective formula that is ideal for all skin types. With its amazing scent, it will surely induce a relaxation that you much needed after a long day outside. 

Why we love it:

  • Gently slough off dead skin cells
  • Ideal for all skin types
  • Pleasant scent 

Price: $29.90

  Add to cart

The Moisturizers Co Glow Renew Essence Toner with Green Tea

The Moisturizers Co Glow Renew Essence Toner with Green Tea is a multipurpose product that functions as toner, face mist and even masks. It features comprehensive benefits that can combat excess sebum, dullness and signs of imperfections. Thanks to the green tea extract and niacinamide in its formulation, they keep blemishes and clogged pores at bay. Added with pro-vitamin B5, it retains the moisture level leaving you with supple-looking skin. 

Why we love it:

  • Ideal for all skin types
  • Lightweight texture
  • Multipurpose product

Price: $43.00

  Add to cart

Make sure to follow Beauty Insider on Instagram and Facebook for the latest update!