“Doctor, what are the skin benefits of green tea? Does drinking green tea help improve skin? Can I use it in my face pack or toner?”

The answer is a resounding yes! Green tea benefits the skin both when consumed and applied topically. It deserves a place in your daily routine, thanks to its extensive health-promoting properties. Beyond skincare, green tea has anti-cancer, anti-obesity, cardio-protective, anti-diabetic, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-ageing effects—primarily due to a powerful catechin called Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG).

10 Benefits of Green Tea

1. Weight Loss

Even the healthiest skin loses its glow when body proportions are imbalanced. Studies suggest that regular green tea consumption aids in weight reduction. For added taste and health benefits, try it with a few drops of lemon and a teaspoon of honey.

2. Skin Repair and Anti-Ageing

Rich in antioxidants like catechins and Vitamin C, green tea helps repair damage caused by UV rays, pollution, and environmental toxins, thereby reducing premature ageing.

3. Sunburn Protection

Applying green tea extract before sun exposure may help reduce the likelihood of sunburn, offering a natural layer of photoprotection.

4. Antiviral and Antibacterial Effects

A warm cup of green tea can help fight viral and bacterial infections naturally. For sore throats or colds, combine it with lemon and honey for added soothing effects.

5. Anti-Cancer Properties

Green tea has been extensively studied for its role in cancer prevention and inhibition of cancer cell growth. A simple daily cup may contribute to long-term cancer risk reduction.

6. Wart Treatment

Green tea extracts have shown efficacy in treating genital warts, offering a natural remedy with minimal side effects and low recurrence rates.

7. Oral Lichen Planus

Though relatively unknown, this painful condition involving ulcers in the mouth may benefit from green tea, which supports mucosal healing.

8. Psoriasis Relief

Topical green tea has demonstrated the ability to reduce psoriatic lesions, offering hope for individuals suffering from chronic plaque psoriasis.

9. Hair Growth

Green tea extracts promote hair regrowth, particularly in Male Pattern Baldness, by stimulating hair follicles and reducing inflammation.

10. Immune Boost

Green tea strengthens the immune system, helping the body combat various diseases—including skin-related conditions—by enhancing immune responses.

How to Use Green Tea

• Internally: Drink one cup of freshly brewed green tea daily to improve overall skin health and metabolic balance.

• Topically: Reserve a few spoonfuls from your cup to use as a natural toner or mix into a homemade face pack for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.

Side Effects of Green Tea

For topical use, it suits most skin types—whether used in a toner or a face pack. However, those with sensitive skin should conduct a patch test behind the ear before first-time use to rule out irritation or allergic reactions.

While consuming green tea offers multiple benefits, some individuals may not tolerate it well. Common complaints include:

• Giddiness

• Vomiting

• Itching

• Acidity

If you’re trying green tea for the first time and experience any of the above, it’s best to avoid further use. Consult your physician before introducing green tea into your routine, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or on medications.