Green tea has been used as a natural remedy for acne for many years. It is well known for its health benefits and has been popular in China for many thousands of years to cure a wide variety of health problems. It is rich in a chemical called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) which is an effective antioxidant. Scientific studies have shown that it does inhibit cancer cells and green tea has also proved to be effective in the treatment of cardiovascular disease, infectious diseases and in reducing blood cholesterol levels.
Studies have reported that the EGCG, in addition to acting as an an antioxidant, also helps to improve swelling of the skin that occurs with acne. In a trial the American Academy of Dermatology applied a 1% concentration of epigallocatechin gallate in a gel which, when used on the skin, helped to improve the acne as much as, and many times better than, a topical solution of benzoyl peroxide. Also the cream did not result in dryness to the skin which is a common side effect of using benzoyl peroxide or many other harsh chemicals.
Creams and gels can be purchased containing green tea or you could make a preparation in your kitchen. Take some green tea, add to some water and boil, then apply the cooled down preparation to affected areas. Also you can drink green tea which will allow the ingredients to start to work from within. Drink at least 3 cups of green tea every day and administer a solution containing green tea to your skin three times a day. In two to three weeks you should see an improvement in your acne and you should have a clearer skin.
There are plenty of uses for green tea for both dieting and health problems, the use in the treatment of acne is only one of them. As with all natural cures for acne you should combine this approach with a healthy way of life including drinking eight glasses of water every day and making sure you have a healthy diet. Don't give up if your skin does not improve straight away. As is common with most natural remedies for acne green tea treatment will improve the health of your skin over time.
