Tea and Beauty
by Laurie Nienhaus
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
- Allow helpful elimination of free radicals; safeguarding healthy cells
- Inhibits the inflammatory impact of ultraviolet radiation, helping to prevent adverse effects of the sun
Keep in mind long-term studies are still needed, but these first studies are significant enough that a flurry of new skin care products are now on the market.
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
Mix the lipoic acid with the green tea extract and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes or until the lipoic acid is dissolved. Add the COQ10 and essential oils. Blend all into the cream.
This cream will sting a bit at first. Make only small batches and keep the mixed cream and individual ingredients in the refrigerator.
Note: All ingredients can be found at health food stores.
Wet a teabag and place it on your lips for 2-3 minutes. 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.
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 is said to reduce swelling, refresh and tighten the tender skin under your eye.
Green Tea Toner
Bring water to the fish eye stage and pour over tea. Steep for four minutes and strain. When cooled to room temperature, add vinegar, extract and essential oils of your choice. Apply with cotton balls and do not rinse.
Note: Essential oils of rose, sandalwood, rosewood, and lavender are good choices for mature skin.