Tea & Beauty        Everyone agrees tea is good for us! Now the latest research indicates that tea, in particular green tea extract, is good for our skin when applied topically. According to the initial studies from the Department of Dermatology at Case Western Reserve University, skin care products containing green tea may have a profound impact on the skin and, again, it's the polyphenols we can thank. So what can green tea do for our skin? - Reactivate & energize dying skin cells, improving skin condition and elasticity. It tightens and calms the skin. - It's antioxidant properties allows helpful elimination of free radicals and safeguards healthy cells. - Inhibits the inflammatory impact of ultraviolet radiation, helping to prevent adverse effects of the sun. Keep in mind that long-term studies are still needed, but these first studies are significant enough that a flurry of new skin care products have been developed by companies such as Aubrey Organics and Alba. However, a savvy tea lover might create the following concoctions for herself. A Rich Cream For Those Who Like to Concoct 2 tablespoons of your favorite cream 2 lipoic acid capsules (250 mg) 2 COQ10 capsules 60 drops of green tea extract 20 drops essential oil of ylang ylang 30 drops of essential oil of sandalwood    All of these ingredients can be found at health food stores. Mix the lipoic acid with the green tea extract and let sit for 5 to10 minutes or until the lipoic acid is dissolved. Add the COQ10 and the essential oils. Blend all into the cream. This cream will sting a bit at first. Make only small batches at a time and keep the mixed cream and the individual ingredients in the refrigerator.   Teatime for Chapped Lips Wet a teabag and place it on your lips for 2-3 minutes, giving the tannic acid time to heal the damaged skin. As your lips dry put a tiny dab of cocoa butter onto your fingers and add two drops of green tea extract. Rub together with your finger and thumb and apply to your dry lips.   Rich Facial Mask 1 tablespoon papaya 1 tablespoon avocado 1 teaspoon green tea extract1/2 tablespoon honey 1/2 tablespoon cream    Blend all ingredients in a blender or food processor. Apply to a clean fane and lie down for 20-25 minutes. Rinse well and apply toner and moisturizer.   The Bags We Love Under Our Eyes Brew a cup of strong black or rose-hip tea and let two cotton pads sit in the liquor for 3-5 minutes. Lie down with the pads over your eyes. This reduces swelling, refresh & tighten the tender skin under your eyes.   Green Tea Toner 1/2 cup distilled water 2 teaspoons loose green tea 1 teaspoon green tea extract 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 10 drops essential oil    Bring water to the fish eye stage and pour over tea.  Let steep for 4 minutes. Strain. When cooled to room temperature, add vinegar, extract and essential oils of your choice. Rose, sandalwood, rosewood, and lavender are all good choices for mature skin. Apply with cotton balls and do not rinse.   Please note: The Ladies' Tea Guild is offering these recipes for your experimentation and is not making any claims as to their benefits. Green tea is not known to irritate, but it's always a good idea to put a new product on the skin of your arm or leg for 5-7 days before applying it to your face.