Green tea is well known for its health benefits and has been used as an acne home remedy for many years. It has been used in China for thousands of years to treat many different conditions. It is a tea made from the unfermented leaves of the plant Camellia sinensis and contains polyphenols which have high antioxidant properties, even higher it appears than vitamin C. The most active of these is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) which has been the subject of many studies. Green tea also contains caffeine and other alkaloids called theobromine and theophylline which are responsible for its stimulant effects.

Scientific Studies

There have been many scientific studies to investigate the beneficial effects of green tea and evidence suggests that regular use can be beneficial in lowering rates of heart disease and in the development of some cancers. It is also thought to help in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, some infections and lowering cholesterol levels in the blood. The antioxidant properties are believed to help neutralize free radicals and therefore prevent some of the damage due to the environment and aging.

Studies have also shown that its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can help in the treatment of acne. A trial by the American Academy of Dermatology using a cream containing a 1% concentration of EGCG showed that it was effective in improving the condition of the skin and reducing inflammation and outbreaks. It was at least as good as benzoyl peroxide and in some cases better and did not have drying effects that benzoyl peroxide and other chemicals have on the skin.

How to Use Green Tea

Creams and lotions can be bought containing green tea or you could make is at home very easily. Steep green tea leaves in boiling water for about 30 minutes, strain off the solution and allow to cool. Apply this solution to the skin up to three times a day. You will not see an immediate effect but after a few weeks you should see a good improvement in the condition of your skin. You could also drink green tea regularly. You can buy drinks containing green tea but always look carefully at the labels as many of them contain a high concentration of sugar.

A Healthy Lifestyle

As with all natural acne remedies you should combine this treatment with a healthy lifestyle. This includes drinking plenty of water, at least eight glasses a day, and eating plenty of green vegetables, oily fish, whole grains and decreasing the use of caffeine, alcohol, fats and sugar. In addition gently wash your face twice a day with a mild soap that will not irritate the skin. To prevent the bacteria that cause acne from multiplying and re-infecting your skin always boil washcloths daily or use disposable cotton balls for washing and applying cosmetics. As you sleep bacteria and oil from your face are transferred to your pillow case where they can be transferred back to your skin. To help to prevent this change your pillowcase at least every other day.

Conclusion

Green tea can be used as a natural acne home remedy that can be effective in the treatment of mild to moderate acne. It may take a few weeks to have an effect but, combined with a healthy lifestyle, you should see an improvement in your condition in a few weeks.