Green tea in skincare is not a new trend. The use of green tea for skincare benefits has a long history, dating back to ancient China where it was used for its medicinal properties. In traditional Chinese medicine, green tea was used to improve circulation and reduce inflammation. Topically applied green tea (camellia sinensis leaf extract) is loaded with high levels of polyphenols that provides natural healing of the skin along with skin-soothing, anti-aging and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Natural Science
Green tea extract is also called camellia sinensis leaf extract. It contain high levels of phytochemicals that are effective free radical scavengers and also deliver moisture relief to the skin. The specific compounds found in green tea, such as polyphenols and catechins, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help protect the skin from environmental stressors and improve its overall appearance.
Benefits
A group of polyphenol compounds called catechins are believed to be responsible for the antioxidant benefits of green tea that helps to target and prevent damage and aging human skin. Green tea for the face can help to protect the skin from harmful UV radiation and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Another important compound in green tea is epicatechin gallate, which has been found to have skin-lightening effects and may be helpful in reducing hyperpigmentation. There is also research into its anticarcinogenic effects on the skin.
How Its Used
We use green tea for our face product formulations as an antioxidant, free radical scavenger and skin-soothing agent. It also provides a mild aroma to the formulation without the addition of synthetic fragrances. You can find it listed under the name cameillia sinesis leaf extract (green tea).
Research
Evidence shows that green tea for the face has remarkable benefit of antioxidant, anti-inflammation and anti-aging effects on the skin. And that it also has a prolonged moisturizing effect on the epidermis. There has been a growing body of research on the skin benefits of green tea in recent years. One study found that a cream containing green tea extract was effective at improving the appearance of sun-damaged skin, including reducing fine lines and increasing skin elasticity. Another study found that a lotion containing green tea extract improved the skin's barrier function and reduced inflammation.
References
Dermatologic Therapy, Vol 26, Mar 2013, Pg. 267-71
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Vol 52, Jun 2005, Pg. 1049-59
Dermato-Endocrinology, vol. 4, no. 3, 2012, pp. 308-319
Archives of Dermatological Research, vol. 303, no. 2, 2011, pp. 71-81
Tea in Health and Disease Prevention, Elsevier, 2006, pp. 365-380
Indian Dermatology Online Journal, vol. 4, no. 2, 2013, pp. 143-146.