Best Teas for Skin
By Zhao Lu
Tea has become a popular ingredient in skin care products over the past several years. While green tea is perhaps the best known tea used in moisturizers and lotions, there are many other types of tea that yield benefits for the skin. From caffeine-rich yerba mate to soothing camomile, here’s a brief overview of some of the best types of tea for skin, as well as how we incorporate them into TEA.L products. Because skin care products affect everyone differently, it is important to note that we do not endorse any medical claims. Specific health-related questions should be directed to a physician.
Green Tea
Green tea is used in many skin care products, largely due to the presence of polyphenols. Polyphenols are a type of antioxidant-rich micronutrient found in plant-based food. The polyphenols found in green tea can help reduce free radical damage, which takes place at the cellular level. Free radicals break down the skin’s collagen, ultimately accelerating the aging process through sagging, wrinkles, or discoloration. The main benefit of green tea is EGCG, a particular type of polyphenol that fights against free radical damage. For this reason, green tea is often included in anti-aging serums and lotions. Aside from its antioxidant properties, green tea can reduce the secretion of sebum, and thus prevent breakouts. Green tea can also reduce puffiness around the eyes, protect the skin from UVB rays that cause cancer, and improve skin elasticity. Another benefit of green tea is its soothing hydration, making it a great choice for all skin types.
Rooibos
Native to South Africa, rooibos is a red tea that comes from the Aspalathus linearis plant. Rooibos is an herbal tea, so it does not include any caffeine. Some of the key ingredients include alpha hydroxy acid and zinc, which are commonly used in skin care products. More specifically, studies show that these minerals may help improve skin texture, treat and prevent acne, and stimulate collagen production. Moreover, rooibos is believed to have 50% more antioxidants than green tea. These antioxidants reduce damage caused by free radicals, while the superoxide dismutase enzyme present in rooibos promotes healthy skin cell growth. In addition to its powerful ingredient list, rooibos is deeply hydrating and may also help to soothe eczema or other skin irritations. TEA.L body care uses organic brewed rooibos tea, rather than water, as a base to reap the benefits of this plant.
Yerba Mate
Yerba mate (pronounced “yur-bah ma-tay”) is a caffeinated South American drink that includes star ingredients like Vitamin A, B1, C, and polyphenols. A common ingredient in skin care products, Vitamin A can reduce acne and the appearance of fine lines. Similarly, Vitamin B1 can protect the skin against wrinkles and age spots, while Vitamin C improves collagen production and reduces skin damage from sun exposure. Studies have also shown that yerba mate may also prevent the growth of the fungus Malassezia furfur, which contributes to uncomfortable skin conditions such as dryness, dandruff, and rashes. The fatty acids present in yerba mate may also reduce signs of aging. Unlike many other types of tea, yerba mate also contains a polyphenol called chlorogenic acid, which improves skin firmness under the eyes. When applied to the skin directly around the eyes, this tea’s higher caffeine content can also reduce puffiness and black circles. For these reasons, yerba mate is used as the base for TEA.L eye cream.
Guayusa
Guayusa is a type of leaf found in holly trees native to the Ecuadorian rainforest. Guayusa is rich in catechins, a type of polyphenol antioxidants which protect against inflammation and can slow down the aging process. In fact, guayusa is believed to contain 50% more antioxidants and 30% more polyphenols than green tea. Guayusa’s high caffeine content also acts as a diuretic, which drains excess moisture from the body. As a result, guayusa may reduce the appearance of “bloating” while also decreasing the skin’s redness. The caffeine in guayusa may also stimulate blood flow, tighten skin, and lessen the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Guayusa is used as the base in TEA.L face care.
Ginger Tea
In addition to its widespread use in food, beverages, and medicine, ginger has become a popular ingredient in skin care. Studies have shown that ginger is filled with natural antioxidants, which can preserve the skin’s natural collagen and help improve skin structure. Fittingly, the antioxidants found in ginger tea are called gingerols, and these may reduce inflammation and damage caused by free radicals. Ginger is known for skin benefits ranging from fading the appearance of scars, evening skin tone, and preventing the breakdown of collagen. It may also help to manage skin conditions such as dandruff and acne. TEA.L incorporates Ginger Essential Oil into its body care products.
Chamomile
Chamomile has long been used as a folk remedy for a wide range of ailments, and its usefulness extends to modern skin care products. Chamomile boasts antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mild astringent properties, all of which are beneficial for skin. This floral, caffeine-free tea inhibits bacterial growth, which can reduce the appearance of blemishes. It is also known for calming the skin, so it works particularly well for those with sensitive skin or as a part of a relaxing evening ritual. Studies have shown that ointments containing chamomile may help with eczema and other mild inflammatory skin conditions. As with many other teas, chamomile has polyphenols that can combat skin cell damage from free radicals. We do not use chamomile tea itself as a base for TEA.L products, but we do incorporate chamomile extract into our body care.
Incorporate tea into your skin care routine
TEA.L products blend multiple types of tea in order to maximize skin benefits -- from fighting acne, to hydrating the face and body, to slowing the signs of aging. Aside from tea, our products combine ingredients such as essential oils and extracts to provide a deeply nourishing experience for your skin. Visit our product page to learn more about which types of tea-based lotions are best suited for your needs.