Black Tea Uses for Skin Care
Did you know you can use black tea for skin health? Whether you drink it as a beverage or use it topically, black tea can contribute to a healthier complexion.
How Does Black Tea Benefit Skin
As we know, the benefits from black tea leaves are staggering. But this particular tea also has remarkable benefits for the skin. Black tea contains antioxidants, polyphenols, and tannins that offer several perks for younger looking skin.
Black Tea for Skin Benefits
Black tea offers several advantages for skin health due to its rich content of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Some of these benefits include:
- protection from the sun
- reduction of inflammation and puffiness
- A radiant, glowing complexion
The polyphenols found in black tea can help combat free radicals, which are responsible for skin aging and damage.
Additionally, its natural astringent qualities can assist in tightening the skin and reducing the appearance of pores. Regular application or consumption of black tea may also promote a more even skin tone and enhance overall radiance, making it a valuable addition to skincare routines.
Effects of Black Tea for Skin
Anti-aging and Sun Protection
Neutralizes free radicals: The powerful antioxidants in black tea, such as theaflavins and catechins, fight off free radicals that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging.
Reduces fine lines and wrinkles: By helping to neutralize free radicals, black tea can help reduce and prevent the formation of wrinkles. Studies have also shown that black tea can inhibit a gene that creates a collagen-degrading enzyme.
Strengthens skin structure: Black tea extract can help increase collagen production, which improves the skin’s elasticity and firmness for a smoother, plumper, and more youthful look.
Protects against UV damage: While not a replacement for sunscreen, the polyphenols and catechins in black tea can help shield the skin from some UV damage. Research has indicated that consuming black tea may protect the skin from harmful sun exposure
Treats Inflammation and Puffiness
Soothes skin: The anti-inflammatory properties of black tea, from its polyphenols, can help calm redness, swelling, and irritation caused by various factors, including acne flare-ups and rosacea.
Reduces puffiness: When used topically, the caffeine and tannins in black tea can help constrict blood vessels, reduce swelling, and tighten the skin, which is especially effective for de-puffing under-eye bags.
Relieves sunburn: The tannins in black tea have astringent properties that can help soothe sunburned skin and reduce tightness.
Fights bacteria: The catechins and tannins in black tea have antibacterial properties that may help fight off skin infections and aid in healing.
Promotes an Even, Glowing Complexion
Fades dark spots and hyperpigmentation: Black tea can help reduce pigmentation caused by sun exposure and other factors. A 2011 animal study found that applying black tea water to dark spots measurably lightened them over time.
Brightens skin: Regular use of black tea, especially kombucha (fermented black tea), can brighten and revitalize dull skin.
Fights acne: Due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, black tea can help reduce the swelling and redness associated with acne and reduce the likelihood of future breakouts.
Clears oily skin: As a natural astringent, black tea can tighten pores and absorb excess sebum, helping to control oiliness and promote clearer skin.
How to Use Black Tea for Skin
You can reap the benefits of black tea for skin by drinking it regularly or applying it topically. Here are some DIY remedies you can do at home:
Black tea toner: Brew black tea, let it cool completely, and use a cotton ball to dab it all over your face. It can help tone, tighten, and brighten the skin.
Eye compress: Soak two used black tea bags and let them cool or chill them in the fridge. Place them over closed eyes for 10–15 minutes to reduce puffiness and dark circles.
Face mask or scrub: Combine steeped black tea leaves with other ingredients like honey, yogurt, or oats to create an exfoliating and antioxidant-rich face mask.
Black Tea for Skin: How Much Should You Drink?
To get skin benefits from black tea, drink 2-3 cups daily. That will engage antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect against oxidative stress and reduce the signs of aging.
Consistency is key, so make it a daily habit to see the best results, as benefits accumulate over time. Stick to your tea routine for at least two months to see the best results in your skin. However, avoid consuming excessively more than 4-5 cups, as high caffeine levels can cause side effects.
Also, it is important to stay hydrated. In addition to drinking the tea, ensure overall hydration by drinking plenty of water.
It goes without saying, glowing skin also depends on a balanced diet and good sleep. Therefore, it’s important to maintain a balanced lifestyle.
How to Use Black Tea for a Sunburn
For localized sunburn: For small, sensitive areas like the face or eyelids, a simple tea bag compress can provide relief. Soak several black tea bags in tepid water for 10 minutes. Place the tea bags in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to cool them down.
Then apply the cool, damp tea bags to the sunburned area for 10–15 minutes.
Reapply as needed to continue soothing the area.
For a larger area: To treat larger areas, you can use a tea compress made with washcloths or towels.
Steep 8–10 black tea bags in a bowl of tepid water for about 10 minutes until the water is dark. Soak cloths in the tea, wring them out, and cool them in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before applying to the sunburn for 15 minutes.
Repeat as needed. Be aware that the tea may stain fabric.
For a full-body sunburn: For a full-body burn, a cool bath with black tea is recommended. Steep 8–10 black tea bags in tepid bathwater for at least 15 minutes. Soak in the bath for 15 minutes or longer to allow the tannins to soothe your skin. Repeat daily for several days to aid healing.
Other Tea-Related Benefits: