7 Green Tea Skin Benefits + The Best DIY Recipes for Your Skincare Routine (2024)

You’ve heard it a thousand times before: green tea is good for you! In fact, it’s good for your skin inside and out because of its antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-aging properties. It soothes skin inflammation, reduces acne, and prevents hair loss! Read on to learn the skin benefits of green tea and how to add it to your beauty routine.

Meet the Experts
Brendan Camp, M.D., a Manhattan-based dermatologist
Marisa Garshick, M.D., a dermatologist at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery (MDCS)
Medically reviewed by Dr. Gina Jansheski, M.D.

Is Green Tea Good for Your Skin? Yes!

The main health benefits of green tea come from its high concentration of antioxidants, substances that help neutralize oxygen free radicals that damage cellular structures like DNA, lipids, and proteins, explains Brendan Camp, M.D., a Manhattan-based dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology.

And one of green tea's major benefits has to do with our body’s largest and outermost organ, our skin [source]. Just as it does with other cells in our body, green tea’s antioxidant-rich makeup has the potential to combat the biological and environmental influences that contribute to aging, explains Dr. Camp.

How To Use Green Tea for Face + Skin

Perhaps the best thing about green tea is that it’s safe for pretty much everyone and is tolerated by most skin types. Its biological boosts are why many companies have been adding tea extracts to cosmetics and other skincare products [source].

Still, because they can contain additional ingredients like fragrances and preservatives that may cause skin irritation, Dr. Camp points out that it may be a good idea to spot test any new skincare products on the inner arm a few times first to see how your skin reacts.

Let's break down how green tea can benefit our skin and hair:

1. Green Tea Slows Aging

Green tea is a powerhouse of antioxidants that combat free radicals and slow down the aging process. As a natural substance, it’s exciting to know that green tea has the potential to reduce the appearance of premature aging—all thanks to its polyphenols and their antioxidant and photoprotective effects [source].

“Oxygen free radicals resulting from UV radiation can contribute to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles through the accelerated denaturation of collagen and elastin, proteins in the skin that provide structure and rigidity,” Dr. Camp explains.

Using Green Tea for Aging Skin

Green Tea Facial Massage: Brew green tea, let it cool, and use it as a facial massage liquid. Gently massage your face with the tea to stimulate circulation and reduce puffiness.

Green Tea + Pomegranate Toner: For an anti-aging toner, try this recipe with green tea and pomegranate juice. Plus, you can apply this green tea toner throughout the day for an additional moisture boost!

Green Tea Face Scrub: Blend brewed green tea, brown sugar, and coconut oil to create an exfoliating scrub that promotes cell turnover and reveals youthful-looking skin.

—Brewed organic green tea (cooled)
—1 tablespoon brown sugar
—1 tablespoon coconut oil

Instructions

1. Brew a cup of green tea and let it cool down.
2. In a blender or mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of the brewed green tea with the brown sugar and coconut oil.
3. Blend or mix the ingredients until they form a smooth and consistent scrub.
4. Wet your face with water.
5. Apply the scrub to your damp face, gently massaging in circular motions for about a minute.
6. Rinse off with lukewarm water and pat your face dry with a clean towel.
7. Follow up with your regular skincare routine, such as toner and moisturizer.

2. Green Tea Reduces Puffiness

Green tea contains caffeine, which tightens skin and prevents the excessive accumulation of fat in cells, a common cause of under-eye bags as we age [source]. Caffeinated tea also contains tannins, which stimulate blood circulation, and antioxidants that protect skin from the effects of aging.

Using Green Tea for Puffiness

Green Tea Eye Pads: Soak cotton pads in chilled brewed green tea and place them on closed eyes to alleviate puffiness and soothe tired, irritated eyes.

Green Tea Bag Trick: Apply cooled green tea bags to your under-eye area for a refreshing and de-puffing effect.

Green Tea and Aloe Vera Eye Gel: Brewed green tea, aloe vera gel, and a small amount of vitamin E oil can be applied around the eyes and gently massaged to reduce puffiness and hydrate the skin.

—Brewed organic green tea
—1 tablespoon aloe vera gel
—Vitamin E oil

Instructions

1. Brew a cup of green tea and let it cool down.
2. In a small container, mix 2 tablespoons of the brewed green tea with the aloe vera gel and a few drops of vitamin E oil.
3. Stir the ingredients well until they are thoroughly combined.
4. Gently apply a small amount of the gel around your eyes.
5. Using your ring finger, lightly massage the gel in a circular motion until it is absorbed into the skin.
6. Use the eye gel in your morning and evening skincare routine to reduce puffiness and hydrate the delicate skin around the eyes.

3. Green Tea Soothes Itchy Skin + Redness

Green tea's anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent ingredient for soothing irritated skin, reducing redness, and alleviating acne. “Blotchy, red skin occurs because superficial vessels in the skin dilate in response to inflammatory mediators,” explains Dr. Camp. “Green tea helps quench the inflammation that leads to red, irritated skin.”

Using Green Tea for Inflammation

Green Tea Ice Roller: Freeze brewed green tea in an ice cube tray and use the green tea ice cubes to massage your face, focusing on areas prone to redness.

Green Tea Bath Soother: Add 2 cups of brewed green tea to a warm bath for a relaxing and skin-calming soak.

Green Tea Eye Cream: Infused green tea leaves in almond oil with shea butter and a drop of vitamin E oil create a nourishing eye cream that targets signs of aging.

—Green tea leaves
—Almond oil
—1 tablespoon shea butter
—Vitamin E oil

Instructions

1. In a clean jar, place a handful of green tea leaves and cover them with almond oil.
2. Let the mixture sit for at least a week to infuse.
3. After a week, strain the oil to remove the tea leaves.
4. In a separate bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of the infused green tea oil with the shea butter and a drop of vitamin E oil.
5. Stir the ingredients well until they form a creamy texture.
6. Apply a small amount of the eye cream around your eyes, gently tapping it into the skin with your ring finger.
7. Use the eye cream in your morning and evening skincare routine to nourish and target signs of aging around the eyes.

4. Green Tea Lightens Skin

Dreaming of a radiant complexion? Green tea can help even out your skin tone, reduce the appearance of dark spots, and give you a natural glow. Research has demonstrated the beneficial UV protective effects of green tea's antioxidants to suppress hyperpigmentation and brighten skin [source].

Using Green Tea for Discoloration

Green Tea Cooling Mist: Brew green tea, allow it to cool, pour it into a spray bottle, and refrigerate. Spritz it on your face throughout the day to revitalize and promote an even skin tone.

Green Tea Lemon Scrub: Brewed green tea, lemon juice, and sugar are combined to create an exfoliating scrub that helps fade dark spots and even out skin tone.

—2 tablespoons brewed organic green tea
—1 tablespoon lemon juice
—2 tablespoons superfine sugar

Instructions

1. Brew a cup of green tea and let it cool down.
2. In a clean bowl, mix the brewed green tea, lemon juice, and sugar.
3. Stir the ingredients well until they form a paste-like consistency.
4. Gently massage the scrub onto damp skin, focusing on areas with dark spots or uneven skin tone.
5. Rinse off with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry.
6. Follow up with a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.

5. Green Tea Fights Acne

Acne is hardly a condition relegated to grade school—in fact, it affects an estimated 40 to 50 million Americans [source]. With its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compounds that also reduce sebum production, green tea targets acne-causing bacteria, preventing breakouts and promoting clearer skin [source].

Using Green Tea for Acne

Green Tea Spot Treatment: Dab a cotton swab soaked in cooled green tea directly on blemishes to soothe inflammation and promote healing.

Green Tea Steam Facial: Steam your face with green tea-infused hot water to open up pores,detoxify, and enhance circulation.

Green Tea Facial Cleanser: Green tea, aloe vera gel, and tea tree oil are mixed together for a gentle, acne-fighting cleanser.

—¼ cup brewed organic green tea (cooled)
—2 tablespoons aloe vera gel
—2-3 drops tea tree essential oil

Instructions

1. Brew a cup of green tea and let it cool down to room temperature.
2. In a clean container, combine ¼ cup of the brewed green tea with the aloe vera gel.
3. Add the tea tree essential oil to the mixture.
4. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
5. Apply a small amount of the cleanser to damp skin, gently massaging it in circular motions for about a minute.
6. Rinse off with lukewarm water and pat your face dry with a clean towel.
7. Follow up with your regular skincare routine, such as toner and moisturizer.

6. Green Tea Protects Against Sun Damage

Protect your skin from harmful UV rays and sun damage with the natural sun defense provided by green tea polyphenols. Research has demonstrated that the polyphenols found in green tea may be beneficial in preventing UVB light-induced skin conditions, including certain forms of skin cancer [source].

Using Green Tea for Sunburn

Green Tea Sunburn Soother: Brew green tea, let it cool, and apply it to sunburned skin using a cotton pad to soothe and reduce inflammation.

DIY Green Tea Face Mist // Because of the hydrating and refreshing effects of green tea on the skin, it can be used as a base for this DIY face mist. Green tea is full of antioxidants and soothes irritated skin. From there, you can customize for your skin type: dry, oily, or sensitive.

Green Tea Drink Up: Drink green tea to enhance your skin's natural sun protection. Just don't rely solely on green tea for sun protection; use proper sunscreen as well!

SPF Lip Balm: Try this green tea-infused lip balm with zinc oxide to give your lips SPF protection.

Green Tea Bath Soak: Add brewed green tea and a few drops of lavender essential oil to a warm oatmeal bath for a relaxing and skin-calming soak.

—Brewed organic green tea
—½ cup colloidal oatmeal
—Lavender essential oil

Instructions

1. Brew a cup of green tea and let it cool down.
2. In a warm bath, add the brewed green tea.
3. Sprinkle the colloidal oatmeal into the bathwater and stir it gently.
4. Add a few drops of lavender essential oil for a soothing aroma.
5. Soak in the bath for 15–20 minutes, allowing the green tea and oatmeal to calm and nourish your skin.
6. Rinse off with clean water and pat your skin dry with a towel.

7. Green Tea Promotes Hair Growth

The caffeine, antioxidants, and catechins found in green tea encourage blood flow and circulation to the hair follicles, reduce inflammation, and ease dandruff. Incorporating green tea into a hair rinse or mask weekly will not only stimulate growth, but it will also encourage healthier, shinier tresses.

Green Tea Hair Rinse: Brew 2 cups of green tea and let it cool. Pour the cooled tea over your hair after washing and conditioning, and let sit for 2–3 minutes before rinsing.

Find more hair-strengthening green tea recipes here.

More Green Tea DIY Recipes

Super Moisturizing Green Tea Body Wash // Make this thick and creamy body wash with green tea to heal chapped skin and calm inflammation. Your post-winter skin will be glad you did!

Whipped Green Tea + Coconut Oil Moisturizer // You only need coconut oil and green tea to create this soft, ultra-hydrating, and nourishing body moisturizer, which moisturizes without clogging the pores and can even reverse sun damage. And did we mention it’s naturally green?

Matcha Bath Melts // The water melts the oils while you wait, so you can just climb in and let the nourishing oils and soothing green tea go to work. And for a little extra oomph, pour in a cup of sea salt, and kiss flaky skin goodbye.

DIY Matcha Lotion Bars // Turn your matcha latte into a multitasking lotion bar to soothe dry skin and sunburn, ease the itch of bug bites, and fight free radical damage.

Don't Want To DIY? Our Fave Green Tea Product Picks

Youth to the People Superfood Cleanser // This herb-packed cleanser contains green tea, spinach, and a slew of vitamins to nourish the skin and keep it clean. It helps prevent buildup in the pores, removes makeup, and balances the skin’s natural pH without drying it out. It’s appropriate for all skin types.

Peach & Lily Matcha Pudding Antioxidant Cream // This antioxidant-rich cream contains matcha, a type of green tea that is ground into a powdered form. It helps alleviate signs of stress and supports the skin—thanks to an array of hydrating ingredients, including niacinamide, which is also calming and helps correct redness.

Dermalogica Body Hydrating Cream // Erum Ilyas, M.D., a dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, is a personal fan of this green tea and citrus hydrating cream by Dermalogica. “It’s a nice way to integrate a green tea-containing moisturizer and add the benefit of improved and retained hydration for the skin,” she adds.

Dove 0% Aluminum Deodorant Cucumber & Green Tea // Looking for a natural deodorant that will leave you feeling and smelling refreshed and doesn’t contain potentially harmful aluminum? Dr. Garshick recommends trying this product from Dove. “It is formulated with ¼ moisturizers, so it helps to nourish the skin and leave the underarm skin feeling soft and smooth,” she adds.

Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Cucumber and Green Tea // Dr. Camp likes to recommend facial sprays to refresh tired skin throughout the day. “It’s a great way to pack in more hydration when used with a moisturizing cream,” he says. In addition to green tea, it also contains aloe vera, peppermint, and cucumber, working synergistically to wake up tired skin and leave a dewy, clean, and hydrated feeling.

References (in order of appearance):

1. OyetakinWhite P, et al. Protective mechanisms of green tea polyphenols in skin. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2012.

2. Katiyar SK. Skin photoprotection by green tea: antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects. Curr Drug Targets Immune Endocr Metabol Disord. 2003.

3. Heinrich U, et al. Green tea polyphenols provide photoprotection, increase microcirculation, and modulate skin properties of women. J Nutr. 2011.

4. Herman A, et al. Caffeine's mechanisms of action and its cosmetic use. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2013.

5. f*ckushima Y, et al. Consumption of polyphenols in coffee and green tea alleviates skin photoaging in healthy Japanese women. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2020.

6. Cordain L, et al. Acne vulgaris: a disease of Western civilization. Arch Dermatol. 2002.

7. Saric S, et al. Green tea and other tea polyphenols: effects on sebum production and acne vulgaris. Antioxidants (Basel). 2017.

8. Katiyar SK. Green tea prevents non-melanoma skin cancer by enhancing DNA repair. Arch Biochem Biophys. 2011.