Green Tea Extract

There’s no denying that green tea is having a moment right now. And we’re not just talking about the beauty world.

From matcha-infused chocolate to green tea lattes, this ingredient is blowing up.

That is why we feel it’s time to delve into the skincare benefits of green tea extract once and for all. Because more than being a yummy beverage, this extract can have some incredible effects on your skin.

What is it?

In order to understand how green tea extract works its magic, it’s important to ask ourselves: what exactly is it? The answer is relatively straightforward.

Green tea extract comes from the camellia sinensis plant (which is why it is sometimes referred to as camellia sinensis leaf extract rather than green tea extract). This plant is a small evergreen tree with white flowers that originated in China. The extract is produced using both the plant and its dried leaves.

Unlike other types of tea that are also derived from the camellia sinensis plant, such as oolong tea, green tea is the least processed, which is why it’s often marketed as the most beneficial in skincare products like moisturisers and serums.

Now that you know a bit more about where green tea comes from, it’s time to uncover its heavenly benefits.

Benefits

First off, green tea has long been known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Owing to its high catechins content, green tea extract is able to soothe and calm the skin. This makes it perfect for people who suffer from redness, irritation, and swelling, or for someone who was exposed to the sun.

Second, green tea extract is chock full of antioxidants, each of which offer their own benefit to the skin! Firstly, there’s vitamin B, which facilitates collagen production, keeping skin youthful and firm. Next, there’s vitamin E, which hydrates and nourishes the skin. Finally, green tea contains another unique antioxidant known as epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG.

Research has shown that EGCG stimulates the production of skin cells and even has the power to rejuvenate dying skin cells. This process combats signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles.

One final benefit we love? In addition to all the wonderful vitamins and nutrients listed above, green tea extract also contains tannins, which essentially act as a natural toner. This is why green tea extract is able to fight acne. It helps regulate the skin’s production of sebum by removing excess oil on the surface of the skin, which helps to unclog and shrink pores.

Is it Safe for my skin?

There is plenty of research to support the fact that green tea extract is safe for both topical use on the skin and ingestion, such as via tea. With all new skincare products, especially if you’re working a new ingredient into your regime, dermatologists recommend doing a patch test. But generally speaking, allergic reactions to the ingredient are rare, which makes green tea extract low risk and high reward!