How to Use Green Tea Bags as an Astringent

Green tea is a powerful health tonic for the body when brewed as a drink or applied to skin.

Tea is a natural antioxidant, which helps to fight off free radicals that cause aging. Free radicals are molecules in the body that are missing an electron. Antioxidants, like tea, neutralize free radicals by donating one of their electrons. Not only is green tea an antioxidant, but it also contains vitamins C and E, which aid in the repair of skin. The tannins in green tea are acidic, which kills bacteria and odors, making it a well-rounded treatment for skin.

Things You'll Need

• 2 green tea bags
• 1 cup witch hazel
• Glass or other heat-safe container
• Spoon
• Jar with lid or squeeze bottle

Instructions

1. Unwrap and place the green tea bags into the container.

2. Pour a cup of boiling water over the tea bags. Make sure they are submerged in the water and allow them to steep in the water for an hour.

3. Lift the tea bags out of the water and squeeze out any excess tea from the bags before discarding.

4. Pour the witch hazel into the container with the tea and stir.

5. Pour the astringent into the jar or squeeze bottle and apply daily to a clean face with a clean cotton ball or cleaning pad.

Tips & Warnings

• Use green tea bags to treat puffy eyes or an insect bite by apply moistened tea bags directly to eyes or the bite.

• Hold green tea bags under the water spout when you run a bath to make a green tea bath to cure sunburn or foot and body odors.

• Do not drink the tea astringent. Witch hazel is harmful to drink.

References

• DERMAdoctor: Tea and Your Skin
• Health Check Systems: Understanding Free Radicals and Antioxidants

Resources

• Seven Cups: Seven Cups Fine Chinese Tea