Green Tea Benefits for Skin
Green tea is made from the steamed leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Green tea may have many benefits, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, which can include improved mental function, weight loss and increased antioxidants, and it may prevent and/or treat some cancers, including breast and stomach cancer. Green tea can also have some benefits for the skin, mostly derived from the high antioxidant content of the tea.
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Reduces Skin Damage
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According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, green tea may help prevent and protect skin against sun damage. This is due to green tea's high content of the antioxidant EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate). EGCG is the most potent catechin in green tea, protecting cells against free radicals that are present in the environment, including ultraviolet rays from the sun.
May Prevent Cancer
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Green tea may protect against certain cancers, including skin cancer. Although scientific research is still inconclusive on green tea and cancer, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, the antioxidant level in tea may slow or prevent the growth of skin cancer.
Reduces Inflammation
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Green tea may reduce inflammation in the skin, reducing redness, swelling and irritation. According to Smart Skin Care.com, green tea may improve the condition of rosacea, a skin condition that makes cheeks appear red and flushed.
Improves Signs of Aging
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The high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of green tea may lessen the signs of aging. Green tea may improve the elasticity of skin and help skin appear firmer. While topical green tea polyphenols may slow the development of some forms of aging, according to Smart Skin Care.com, more scientific research is needed to determine whether green tea can actually reduce wrinkles.
Softens Skin
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Try using green tea to help smooth skin and even skin tone. Mix 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise with 1 teaspoon of green tea leaves. Apply to clean skin, avoiding the eye area, and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse off with warm water. The leaves will exfoliate and soften skin and reduce toxins, according to iVillage.co.uk.
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References
- Photo Credit green tea image by Maria Brzostowska from Fotolia.com
