How to use green tea to treat acne?

Green tea is good for your health. But is it good for treating acne vulgaris? Maybe yes. This is because green tea (like any other tea) is rich in polyphenols.

A study found that topical tea polyphenols may help improve mild to moderate acne. If you're looking for a natural way to deal with acne (not cystic acne), you may want to try this popular home remedy.

The research surrounding this remedy is very limited, but there are several studies that explore how green tea can help your acne condition. In this article, we have discussed how green tea can soothe your condition and ways to use it to treat acne.

The importance of proper nutrition when treating acne

Most often, the problem is genetic and inherited, but even in this case, if you follow the recommendations of specialists, the intensity of the rash can be controlled by maintaining healthy skin.

Dermatologists and cosmetologists, in addition to individual instructions for the treatment of acne, recommend that patients adhere to a low-carbohydrate diet and pay attention to products that will help reduce the amount of sebum production and reduce its density, preventing the formation of new foci of inflammation. It is also worth paying attention to the list of products whose consumption is recommended to be reduced, as they have a negative effect on the condition of the skin.

Unknown properties of familiar tea

What are the benefits of tea for the human body? Let's look at its chemical composition, which contains more than a hundred substances. Depending on the type of drink, from a third to a half of these components dissolve in water.

Tannins. There are up to 30% of them in good tea. It is to them that the drink owes its tart taste. There are about 30 of them, but the most important of them is tannin. This substance disinfects wounds, stops bleeding, and has a bactericidal effect. For small household wounds, cuts, damage to the epidermis after acne removal, a cotton swab dipped in green tea can easily replace the green tea without burning the epidermis;
Polyphenols. These substances are natural antioxidants. It’s not for nothing that a cup of green tea comes in handy in case of poisoning (including alcohol poisoning), viral diseases. Due to their natural origin, such antioxidants have no side effects;
Amino acids, trace elements and vitamins. There are about twenty amino acids in tea, and among the vitamins it contains group B, ascorbic acid, P and PP, K. Mineral substances in the drink are only up to ten percent, including iron, potassium and calcium, manganese, iodine, phosphorus and others;
Caffeine (in tea - theine). In elite varieties, the content of this substance reaches five percent, but in green drinks it is much less, and there are also completely caffeine-free types. At the same time, theine is softer than its coffee counterpart and does not accumulate in the body;
Essential oil. There is not much of it in the drink, only a fraction of a percent, so it does not have any significant effect on the body. But thanks to him, each type of tea exudes its own unique aroma, which lifts the mood and has a beneficial effect on the nervous system;
In addition, tea contains pigments, organic acids, pectins, proteins and carbohydrates.

It is important to understand that we are talking about high-quality brewed tea and bagged surrogate has nothing to do with this category. It is better not to consume sachets whose contents look like dust or contain added fruits, berries and herbs declared by the manufacturer. It is not clear what dyes and harmful substances are activated in boiling water.

What to eat to speed up the process of getting rid of acne

The acne diet focuses more on reducing your intake of carbohydrates and saturated fats and increasing your intake of nutrients, antioxidants and fiber - this diet improves the immune and digestive systems, and the skin becomes noticeably clearer and looks healthier. To help your body fight breakouts, it is recommended to include the following categories of foods in your diet:

Probiotics

In some cases, the occurrence of rashes may be associated with the state of the intestinal microflora. An imbalance of microflora contributes to the appearance of inflammatory processes in the body and, as a result, acne on the face, chest and back. Probiotics reduce the intensity of oxidative processes and resist inflammation. To maintain a normal digestive process, it is important that your diet includes foods such as pickled vegetables and dark chocolate.

Zinc-rich foods

Zinc reduces the appearance of acne and helps get rid of rashes faster, so it should be in your daily diet. Include chicken and beef liver, chicken hearts, boiled beef tongue, roast beef, pumpkin and watermelon seeds, pine nuts and pecans in your diet. The champion in the amount of zinc is oysters (however, remember that oysters are a strong allergen).

Fish and Omega-3

Most people have excess amounts of Omega-6 fatty acids in their daily diet. For all its benefits, Omega-6 promotes inflammatory processes in internal organs and tissues, therefore they are not recommended in large quantities against the background of acne. To reduce the severity of breakouts, balance your diet with Omega-3 fatty acids, which have an anti-inflammatory effect and prevent clogged pores. Omega-3 is found most in fatty sea fish, such as mackerel, as well as tuna, sardines, salmon and cod liver. From plant products - in flax seeds, broccoli and Brussels sprouts.

Vegetables, herbs and freshly squeezed juices

A vegetable diet cleanses the body of toxins and keeps the skin toned. People suffering from acne are advised to include more vegetables and herbs in their diet, which contain beta-carotene, a provitamin that promotes the natural regulation of skin oiliness and has an anti-inflammatory effect. A lot of beta-carotene is found in carrots, sea buckthorn, parsley and celery. For acne, it is also recommended to eat more dark-colored berries (raspberries, blueberries, black currants) - they contain many antioxidants that improve skin condition.

Green tea

This drink is a powerful antioxidant and effectively protects the body from the adverse effects of the external environment. Green tea can be drunk throughout the day - both hot and cold. It is especially useful to brew green tea varieties in a teapot - tea pre-packaged in bags loses most of its beneficial properties.

Ultrasonic facial cleansing can remove facial swelling

Ultrasonic facial cleansing is a painless method that can deal with the problem quickly and easily. Here, the facial skin is exposed to ultrasound. This procedure can be performed in any salon. The most important thing is that it is carried out by a professional who knows all the indications, contraindications, and subtleties of the work. Then we can talk about effectiveness, high-quality results and the absence of complications. Minor swelling on the face in the morning will disappear for a while. You will need to undergo several sessions to consolidate the results.

What not to eat if you have problem skin and acne

Diet during acne treatment involves avoiding foods that enhance the functioning of the sebaceous and sweat glands.

The first category of foods that can cause new rashes on the face includes foods with a high Glycemic Index (GI). Simply put, these are “fast” carbohydrates that rapidly increase blood glucose levels (confectionery and sweet products, soda, etc.). Glucose increases the production of insulin, which, in turn, stimulates the production of the hormone testosterone - one of the culprits of acne - and increases skin sensitivity to it. The GI of foods depends on several factors: the amount of fast carbohydrates and fiber. The less sugar and more fiber you consume, the better.
The second category of undesirable products includes dairy and fermented milk products: milk, kefir, yogurt, fermented baked milk, cottage cheese, cheese, etc. Cattle growth hormones (anabolics) in these products disrupt the human hormonal balance, which also causes rashes.
The third group includes products containing trans fats (highly comedogenic fatty acids), for example, fast food and processed foods. Consumption of such products can change the composition and properties of sebum, making it denser.

Let's highlight a group of drinks separately. For example, when drinking coffee, the body produces the stress hormone cortisol, which also causes acne. Alcohol, carbonated drinks and concentrated juices not only increase blood sugar levels, but also the amount of waste and toxins in the body, which also come out through the pores on the face with sebum and sweat. But if you follow the drinking regime and have sufficient daily water intake, your skin will only thank you.

How to remove swelling from the face?

Most often, we notice slight swelling on the face in the morning; this phenomenon is considered normal. Because at night the blood rushes to the face, which leads to a sleepy appearance. But after 10-15 minutes everything goes away. In case of a longer period, the following procedures can be performed:

contrast washes, after which you can wipe your face with ice. This reduces puffiness and removes bags formed under the eyes. In this way you can cheer up and get a certain boost of energy;
A good night's sleep must be well prepared. In the evening, you should not eat spicy, salty foods, or sweets. This affects the quality of sleep;
the products you use to care for your face should be applied 2 hours before you go to bed;
Swelling often occurs as a result of improper, irregular food intake. It is worth consuming less seasonings, sauces, smoked meats, and not eating fast food. Water may also be retained in the body due to sugar;
The danger is posed by fatty foods that contain a lot of sugar. We are talking about various sweets, donuts, buns. They do not have a very good effect on the condition of the human body;
As for proper nutrition, there should be enough animal proteins (fish, cottage cheese, meat, eggs). The diet should also include foods rich in calcium;
Drink less water after 7 pm, do not eat;
consume less salt, it contributes to fluid stagnation;
It’s better to drink green tea and various decoctions to get a diuretic effect. In the summer, you can use watermelons for this. You should forget about carbonated drinks and sweet waters, which leave a bad mark on the body.

Diet for acne-free skin: sample menu

A diet based on proper balanced nutrition is one of the effective ways to combat rashes, aimed at internally improving the condition of the skin. After just a month of regular proper nutrition, you will notice improvements. You can diversify your diet by adding healthy snacks: fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds.

Let's give an example of how a dietary menu for acne can be created:

Breakfast

Cereal porridge in water with the addition of dried fruits.
Muesli with berries and seeds.
Wholemeal rye/bran bread with unsalted salmon and avocado.
Bran with nuts and fresh fruits.
Avocado with boiled egg and bran.

Dinner

Fish: mackerel, salmon, sardines, etc. must appear in the diet a couple of times a week.
Meat: stewed or steamed beef, boiled or baked white meat (chicken, turkey), you can prepare chicken broth with vegetables.
Suitable side dishes include steamed or grilled vegetables, brown rice and other grains, and boiled potatoes.
Salads made from fresh vegetables, herbs with the addition of cereals and seeds (chia, pumpkin, etc.) will enrich the diet with antioxidants, vitamins, fatty acids, and improve the color and condition of the skin.

Dinner

Steam cutlets made from beef liver and minced fish/chicken.
Roasted turkey with rice and vegetables.
Vegetable stew with beef stew.
Pilaf with chickpeas, carrots and chicken.

Replace usual sweets with dried fruits, natural marshmallows, and a slice of dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content. You can sweeten dishes or drinks by adding fructose or stevia.

How to use green tea for acne?

Honey and green tea for acne

Honey has antimicrobial and wound-healing properties. It can inhibit the growth of P. acnes bacteria and help reduce acne.

You will need:

1 green tea bag
1 tbsp. l. organic honey
Hot water
Facial cleanser
Towel

Method

Soak a green tea bag in hot water for about 3 minutes.
Remove the bag and let it cool. Cut open the bag and remove the leaves.
Add honey to the leaves.
Wash your face with facial cleanser and pat dry.
Apply the honey and green tea mixture to your face and leave it on for about 20 minutes.
Rinse off with cool water and pat dry.
Do the procedure 3-4 times a week.

Green tea spray for acne

This face mist will help soothe your skin. It helps minimize redness and treats existing acne. The EGCG in green tea helps treat acne. This treatment may be more effective if you also consume green tea regularly.

You will need:

Facial cleanser
Green tea
Spray
Non-comedogenic moisturizer
Towel

Method

Brew some green tea and let it cool completely. (You can drink most of it and save 2-3 tablespoons for this treatment.)
Pour the cooled green tea into a spray bottle.
Wash your face with cleanser and pat dry with a towel.
Spray green tea on your face and let it dry.
Rinse with cold water and pat skin dry with a towel.
Apply moisturizer.
Do this 2 times a day.

Apple cider vinegar and green tea for acne

There is not a single study proving the abilities of apple cider vinegar. However, apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy for a variety of skin problems. It is believed to help tone the skin and minimize skin pores. It can also balance your skin's PH levels. You can use this mixture as a facial toner after cleansing your face.

You will need:

¼ cup apple cider vinegar
¾ cup brewed green tea
non-comedogenic moisturizer
facial cleanser
Towel
Cotton pad
Glass jar

Method

Brew some green tea and let it cool completely.
Combine cooled green tea and apple cider vinegar and place in a glass jar for storage. (Store the mixture in the refrigerator.)
Wash your face with facial cleanser and pat it dry with a towel.
Soak a cotton pad in this mixture and apply it to your face. Let it dry.
Apply moisturizer.
Use 2 times a day.

Tea tree oil and green tea for acne

Tea tree oil will be effective in moderating acne. It has strong antimicrobial properties that are effective against acne.

You will need:

½ glass of green tea
3-4 drops tea tree essential oil
Cotton pad
Facial cleanser
Non-comedogenic moisturizer
Towel

Method

Brew some green tea and let it cool completely.
Mix cooled green tea and tea tree oil and pour into a glass jar for storage. (Store the mixture in the refrigerator.)
Wash your face with cleanser and pat dry with a towel.
Saturate a cotton pad with the mixture and blot your face with it. Let it dry. Shake well before use.
Apply moisturizer.
Do this 2 times a day.

Aloe Vera and Green Tea for Acne

Aloe vera has an anti-acne effect on the skin. The mucopolysaccharides present in it help keep your skin hydrated by binding moisture to the skin and stimulating fibroblasts that produce collagen and elastin to keep your skin youthful and plump.

You will need

2 green tea bags
1 glass of water
1 tbsp. l. fresh aloe vera gel
Cotton pad
Facial cleanser
Non-comedogenic moisturizer
Towel

Method

Brew two green tea bags in a cup of boiling water to make a strong solution. Let the solution cool.
Mix cooled green tea and aloe vera gel and pour it into a glass jar for storage. (Store the mixture in the refrigerator.)
Wash your face with cleanser and pat dry with a towel.
Soak a cotton pad in this mixture and apply it to your face. Let it dry.
Apply your moisturizer.
Do this 2 times a day.

Lemon and green tea for acne

Lemon juice contains vitamin C and citric acid. It is a part of many popular home remedies and is used for its astringent properties. It is said to tighten skin pores and have mild whitening properties. Along with green tea, lemon juice can help keep your skin acne-free. However, it can make your skin photosensitive, so apply sunscreen whenever you go out.

You will need

¼ cup green tea
Juice of 1 lemon
Cotton pad
Facial cleanser
Non-comedogenic moisturizer
Towel

Method

Brew a quarter cup of green tea and let it cool completely.
Mix cooled green tea with lemon juice and pour into a glass jar for storage. (Store the mixture in your refrigerator.)
Wash your face with cleanser and pat dry with a towel.
Soak a cotton pad in this mixture and apply it to your face. Let it dry.
Apply moisturizer.
Do this 2 times a day.

Olive oil and green tea for acne

Olive oil is one of the best oil cleansing options. Oil cleansing helps remove traces of makeup and dirt without disturbing your skin's natural balance. Applying infused green tea to your face helps soothe it and reduce inflammation.

You will need

Facial cleanser
Green tea
Spray bottle
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Towel

Method

Brew some green tea and let it cool completely. (You can drink most of it and save 2-3 tablespoons for this treatment.)
Pour the cooled green tea into a spray bottle.
Massage olive oil onto your face. Leave it on for a few minutes.
Dip a washcloth in warm water, wring it out and wipe your face.
Wash your face with cleanser and pat dry with a towel.
Spray green tea on your face and let it dry.
Do this every day.

Apart from home remedies, there is another way to use green tea for acne. You can buy powdered or liquid green tea extract with EGCG, mix it with your favorite cream and apply it to your skin. These excerpts are readily available on the Internet.

The benefits of tea for fighting

The benefits of the drink are known not only in Asian countries, but throughout the world. The benefits of this drink are revealed in the following properties:

It quenches thirst well. In southern countries, it is customary to drink tea in the heat, as it perfectly quenches thirst.
Tones. Tea brings the nervous system into a state of increased efficiency, without irritating it.
Rejuvenates the skin. A large amount of antioxidants and tannins improves skin condition.
Helps against acne. Green tea helps with acne more than other varieties due to the increased amount of beneficial substances.

The effects of tea on the skin

The green variety is usually used to treat dermatological problems. It contains a higher content of useful components and its beneficial effects on the skin are more obvious. This drink is used to relieve the following skin conditions:

Acne caused by liver problems. The skin, along with sweat, removes a certain amount of toxins, therefore, with serious intoxication, it sometimes becomes covered with acne. Due to its high concentration of antioxidants, the tea can be drunk for general body cleansing and used topically to help the skin remove toxins;
Wounds, inflamed rashes, pimples and other damage to the integrity of the epidermis. Tannins promote rapid healing. And the tannids contained in tea disinfect and destroy pyogenic bacteria. The more concentrated the decoction, the better the antimicrobial effect. Don’t rush to throw away yesterday’s tea leaves. A two to three day infusion only enhances its antibacterial properties. But you can’t drink yesterday’s tea;
Dry skin. The microelements that make up the drink maintain the water-salt balance of the epidermis, which is especially important for dry skin or skin exposed to frostbite or active exposure to sunlight;
Fading skin, first wrinkles. Green tea catalyzes metabolic processes, stimulating cellular metabolism and collagen production. As a result of regular external use of this product, the skin looks younger, shallow wrinkles disappear, acne marks and superficial acne scars disappear.

Green tea almost never causes allergies, except in cases of individual intolerance. Therefore, it can be used to relieve all dermatological problems: from cuts and burns to serious acne. The drink is suitable for nourishing all skin types; its effect is especially beneficial on dry skin.