12 Reasons Why Matcha Is Good for Your Skin
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Matcha isn’t just an energy-boosting tea; did you know matcha can be good for your skin?
In this world where everyone is looking for natural skincare solutions, matcha is an option you likely haven’t thought of.
Matcha is steeped in history and packed with nutrients. It’s more than just a part of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony—it’s a skin savior. Rich with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, matcha can improve your skin’s vitality. From fighting inflammation to reducing signs of aging, matcha is like a magic potion for your skin.
In this blog, we’ll explore the 12 ways that matcha can be good for your skin. Additionally, we’ll provide recommendations for some of the best matcha brands and a DIY matcha face mask.
So, let’s dive into the world of matcha and explore how this green wonder can transform your skincare routine and bring out the best in your skin.
Is Matcha Good for Your Skin?
Matcha is a finely ground green tea powder that’s commonly consumed for an energy boost and numerous health benefits. But, can matcha be a great addition to your skincare routine?
Yes, matcha can benefit your skin. It’s rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to neutralize free radicals and combat the damage caused by environmental pollutants.
One of the essential antioxidants in matcha is Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has been found to protect skin from UV-induced inflammatory responses and leukocyte infiltration.
Matcha is a source of both vitamin C and vitamin E that contribute to healthier and more radiant skin.
It also contains chlorophyll which is the pigment responsible for matcha’s distinct green color. Chlorophyll plays a beneficial role in skin health. It’s known for its detoxifying and anti-inflammatory properties, and chlorophyll aids in reducing redness and irritation.
Matcha is considered one of the best teas for healthy skin. Adding matcha into your daily routine, either by drinking it or using skincare products with matcha extract, can maintain your healthy and vibrant skin.
12 Ways Matcha Helps Your Skin
1. Protects Against Sun Damage
Matcha contains potent antioxidants like EGCG that protect the skin against harmful UV rays.
Research has shown that catechin metabolites protect against UV radiation-induced skin inflammation and reduce skin erythema, ensuring healthier skin. Sun damage is a major cause of skin aging, making this benefit crucial for overall skin health.
2. Reduces Inflammation
Matcha’s anti-inflammatory properties help reduce skin redness and irritation. Catechins in matcha can reduce inflammation and promote a more even skin tone. This will help maintain clear and glowing skin with fewer breakouts and blemishes.
3. Helps You Look Younger
The antioxidants in matcha, particularly EGCG, combat free radicals that cause premature aging, wrinkles, and fine lines. By reducing these free radicals, matcha has shown anti-aging properties. It helps maintain youthful, supple skin and slows down the aging process.
4. Improves Skin Tone and Texture
The vitamin E, vitamin B2, and catechins found in matcha can improve skin tone and texture. They help retain moisture, promote skin cell rejuvenation, and exfoliate dead skin cells, resulting in a healthier and more radiant complexion.
5. Hydrates Skin
Matcha is rich in vitamin E which helps to lock in moisture and hydrate the skin. Hydration can leave your skin looking and feeling smoother, with a healthy glow.
6. Helps With Skin Elasticity
Collagen and elastin are proteins responsible for maintaining skin’s elasticity. Matcha contains antioxidants and vitamin K that support collagen production and help maintain skin firmness and elasticity, reducing sagging and fine lines.
7. Reduces Acne
Matcha’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties may help combat acne-causing bacteria. By reducing sebum production and inflammation, matcha can potentially minimize acne breakouts and contribute to clearer skin.
8. Improves Circulation
Caffeine in matcha improves blood circulation, which helps flush out toxins, improves skin health, and provides a natural glow. Increased circulation also helps to deliver essential nutrients and oxygen to the skin.
9. Gets Rid of Excessive Oil
Matcha can reduce sebum production, helping to control oily skin and prevent clogged pores. This is vital for maintaining clear, blemish-free skin.
10. Minimizes Stretch Marks
The antioxidants and vitamins in matcha can help improve the appearance of stretch marks by promoting skin cell regeneration, healing damaged skin, and improving overall skin health.
11. Reduces Cellulite
Matcha’s ability to boost circulation and flush out toxins may help diminish the appearance of cellulite. By strengthening and tightening the skin, matcha is good for smoothing out your skin.
12. Removes Stubborn Dark Spots
The polyphenols, vitamins, and antioxidants in matcha can help reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots caused by sun damage or aging. By promoting skin cell regeneration, matcha assists in revealing a more even skin tone.
Factors That Make Matcha Good for Your Skin
Chlorophyll
As you may know, matcha is rich in chlorophyll, which is what gives it a distinct green color. Chlorophyll not only gives matcha its vibrant color but also helps detoxify the skin, removing impurities and promoting a healthy glow.
Caffeine
Matcha contains 60-70 mg of caffeine per eight-ounce serving. Caffeine helps reduce puffiness and inflammation in the skin. By constricting blood vessels, caffeine can improve the appearance of the skin and make it look more radiant.
Antioxidants
Matcha contains high levels of antioxidants, such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and catechins, that protect the skin against environmental damage. These antioxidants also play a role in preventing premature aging and maintaining skin elasticity.
Vitamins and Nutrients
Packed with essential vitamins like vitamin E, vitamin B2, vitamin K, and vitamin C, matcha tea contributes to overall skin health. These vitamins support cell regeneration, hydration, and the production of collagen, resulting in healthier and younger-looking skin.
L-Theanine
Matcha is rich in an amino acid called L-theanine, which is known for its stress-reducing properties. By calming the nervous system, L-theanine can indirectly improve the overall condition of the skin, as stress is a known trigger for many skin conditions.
How to Use Matcha for Your Skincare
Adding matcha to your skincare routine is a good way to get radiant skin. You can drink it daily or try a matcha face mask. Here are a few ways you can use matcha for your skin care.
Matcha Facial Mark
To create a matcha face mask, mix matcha with a few drops of water until you achieve a thick paste.
You can enhance the mask by adding a teaspoon of honey to moisturize your skin. Apply a thin layer of the mask evenly on your face, leaving it for 10-15 minutes before rinsing with warm water. This natural skincare treatment is suitable for all skin types.
Drinking Matcha
Matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and reduces stress. Lower stress levels contribute to healthier skin, as increased cortisol can cause breakouts or an oil production imbalance. So, enjoy a soothing matcha latte to benefit both your mind and your skin.
Matcha for Sunburn Relief
Matcha can be used topically as a natural sunburn relief. Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe and cool sunburned skin, while the antioxidants aid in skin repair. Combine matcha powder with aloe vera gel and apply to the affected area for effective relief.
As you can see, there are numerous ways you can use matcha. You can either consume it normally or use it topically to enhance your skin’s vitality, tone, and overall health.
Best Matcha Powder That’s Good for Skin
Matcha is packed with antioxidants and helps combat free radicals responsible for premature aging, wrinkles, and acne. To choose the best matcha powder for your skin, consider the following factors:
- Organic: Opt for organic matcha sourced from the Camellia sinensis plant to ensure it’s free from pesticides and toxins.
- Quality: Look for ceremonial grade matcha, as it contains higher levels of L-theanine and antioxidants, making it more effective for skin care. Ceremonial grade matcha is more expensive than culinary grade matcha. However, the cost justifies its quality. You can tell it’s higher quality because the powder has a more vibrant green hue and it’s a smoother-looking powder.
Some top matcha powders available on Amazon include:
Ocha & Co’s Kyoto Uji Matcha
Ocha & Co’s Kyoto Uji Matcha is a premium matcha powder crafted from first flush leaves. It has a smooth and subtly sweet flavor with vibrant color and low bitterness. Sourced from the authentic and traditional Okumidori cultivar in Uji, Kyoto, this Matcha is freshly sealed for longevity.
Ocha & Co. Kyoto Uji Matcha
- Quantity: 50g/1.75oz
- Premium Kyoto Uji Matcha: Crafted from young first flush leaves using traditional methods for a premium, high-grade powder.
- Smooth and Rich Flavor: Offers a mellow taste with a hint of sweetness and vibrant color, perfect for those who prefer a less bitter matcha.
- Freshness Guaranteed: Delivered in zip-sealed packets for optimal freshness, ensuring the matcha retains its quality.
Naoki Matcha Superior Ceremonial Blend
Naoki Matcha’s Superior Blend is a premium Japanese Ceremonial Grade Matcha. It uses freshly ground from the first harvest of Uji Kyoto leaves and is sealed in resealable packaging for ultimate freshness. You can get creative with either topical use for skin or consume it normally.
Naoki Matcha Superior Ceremonial Blend
Naoki Matcha Superior Ceremonial Blend
- Quantity: 50g/1.75oz
- Fresh and Premium Quality: Freshly ground from first-harvest tea leaves in Uji, Kyoto.
- Ideal for Beginners: Smooth and balanced with a hint of umami, this matcha is perfect for those new to matcha.
- Health Benefits and Energy Boost: Offers a unique, steady energy boost with L-theanine-moderated caffeine.
Aprikalife Premium Matcha Green Tea Powder
Aprikalife is the first Harvest Ceremonial Grade Matcha, organically certified by both USDA and JAS and cultivated with historic tradition in Japan’s finest tea fields. This premium matcha not only offers a smooth, creamy taste but also serves as a natural energy booster.
Naoki Matcha Superior Ceremonial Blend
Naoki Matcha Superior Ceremonial Blend
- Quantity: 3.5oz
- Authentic Japanese Origin: Directly imported from Japan, adhering to traditional cultivation methods.
- 100% Organic Certification: Holds both USDA and JAS certifications, meeting the highest standards for organic, premium matcha tea.
- Natural Energy Boost: Provides a smooth, balanced flavor with enhanced focus and sustained energy.
If you’re interested in using matcha topically then it’s quite simple. Just mix a small amount with your favorite toner or facial mask to start enjoying the benefits of this powerful antioxidant-packed green tea.
Ceremonial-grade matcha such as Uji matcha tend to be the highest quality and also the most expensive. Like with many teas, you do get what you pay for so treat yourself.
For more instructions, here’s a matcha face mask recipe below.
How To Create A DIY Matcha Facial Mask
Here’s a simple homemade matcha face mask recipe that can improve your skin. There aren’t a lot of ingredients and the entire process is just about 30 minutes. It’s ideal for those short on time because these masks are quick to make, apply, and wash off.
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of matcha powder
- 1 teaspoon of honey
- 1-2 teaspoons of plain yogurt (optional, for added moisture)
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix the matcha powder with honey. Stir until they form a paste.
- If you have dry skin, add yogurt to the mixture to make it more moisturizing.
- Apply the mask evenly to your clean, dry face.
- Leave it on for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse off with warm water and pat your face dry.
This mask taps into the antioxidant properties of matcha and the moisturizing benefits of honey and yogurt, making it a rejuvenating treat for your skin.
Final Thoughts
Matcha is more than just a healthful beverage; it’s a versatile powerhouse for your skin care regimen. Its rich array of antioxidants, vitamins, and anti-inflammatory properties make it a great choice for anyone looking to enhance their skin’s natural beauty.
Whether you’re sipping it in a latte, applying it as a soothing face mask, or using it for sunburn relief, matcha offers a plethora of benefits that cater to various skin needs.
By adding matcha into your daily routine, you’re not just indulging in a centuries-old tradition but also embracing a natural, effective way to nurture and rejuvenate your skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does matcha do for your face?
Matcha is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe redness and irritation. Topical application of matcha or adding it to face masks can improve skin health.
Can drinking matcha clear skin?
Drinking matcha regularly could have a positive impact on skin clarity due to its high level of antioxidants, specifically EGCG. EGCG helps combat oxidative stress, which in turn can aid in maintaining clear and healthy skin.
Is it OK to drink matcha every day?
Yes, it’s safe to drink matcha daily because it offers numerous health benefits. Moderation is key; consume by recommended guidelines to avoid potential side effects from overconsumption.
Are there any noticeable differences in skin appearance before and after using matcha products?
Individual results can vary; however, many have reported improvements in skin texture, reduced redness, and a radiant complexion after using matcha-infused skincare products over time.
Is matcha good for your skin whitening?
No, matcha’s primary benefit for the skin is its antioxidant content rather than skin whitening. It may help protect against environmental damage and contribute to a more even complexion, but it won’t be a significant contributor to skin whitening.