Studies have shown there is some promise for the tea in the treatment of skin diseases characterized by inflammation, including psoriasis and dandruff. There is also data to suggest that green tea can help other skin disorders. Several other studies suggest that green tea applied topically can help clear up acne lesions, primarily by reducing oil. One study showed that the polyphenols in tea appeared to reduce sebum production, suggesting that it could be used to help quell acne and oily skin. How effective is green tea?Īlthough results vary from person to person, many people report seeing improvement in their skin after incorporating green tea into their diet. This, coupled with green tea’s antioxidant power, could be of use when treating acne-prone skin. We now know that green tea does have some antibacterial qualities, primarily thanks to the polyphenols, specifically a catechin called EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate). In ancient times, green tea leaves were used to treat and protect open wounds from bacteria. Green tea has been used in medicine for thousands of years, most notably as a tool for wound-healing. Flavonoids, for example, have antioxidant properties and can break down free radicals while preventing the buildup of debris that triggers blemishes. Some of these components appear to have more benefit to the skin than others. Green tea contains substances that are known to fight these problems, including flavonoids, caffeine, and polyphenols. How does it work?Ĭlogged pores, excess oil production, and free radicals are all enemies of clear skin. The caveat? Green tea is not a cure-all, and it should be used as part of a well-rounded acne treatment plan. “Increased blood flow helps to remove toxins and deleterious elements that would otherwise build up and damage skin.” In addition, it helps to increase a process called angiogenesis, in which blood flow to tissue improves by the creation of additional, small blood vessels,” she says. “Green tea is believed to be rich in antioxidants and helps reduce stress hormones. Jeanine Downie of Image Dermatology in Montclair, NJ. “Staying hydrated is a big part of a healthy skin routine, and that goes beyond water intake,” says Dr. Proponents say drinking green tea or applying it directly to the skin can help treat blemishes. In our quest to sort out fact from fiction when it comes to acne and diet, we took a look at another alleged acne-buster: green tea. We’ve all heard claims that certain foods can soothe or worsen acne - chocolate makes it worse (only half-true), lemon makes it better (mostly true), and oily food causes breakouts (mostly false). Drinking green tea alone usually isn’t enough it should be used as part of a well-rounded skincare routine developed specifically for your skin type.It appears to be particularly powerful in treating oily skin because it can reduce oil production.Green tea contains flavonoids, which act as antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, as well as several other substances that can help fight acne.Downie completed two years of Pediatric residency at New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center. She received her Master of Arts degree in Biology from American University and her Doctor of Medicine from SUNY-Health Science Center at Brooklyn. Downie is a graduate of Tufts University, where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Psychology. Downie provides both adult and pediatric patients with competent, compassionate care and all patients are treated utilizing the most medically advanced techniques.ĭr. She has extensive training and experience in all aspects of dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, laser and dermatologic surgery. Downie is the director of her own practice, image Dermatology P.C. is board certified by the American Board of Dermatology and holds medical licenses in the states of New Jersey, New York, and California.
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