Not only is matcha great to consume, it also does wonders for your skin! Thanks to its anti-bacterial properties and high levels of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), it's an effective ingredient to reduce inflammation and even your skin tone (and we're just getting started!). No wonder more and more skincare brands are including this all-natural powerhouse in their products.
Keep reading on for the top 5 reasons why you should be incorporating matcha into your skincare routine.
1. Reverses the Aging Process
Matcha is packed with nutrients like catechins, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, and vitamin B-complex, to fight free radicals and remove these from your system. This helps to prevent any damage to your skin cells, which help to minimize cell degeneration and premature aging. The chlorophyll in matcha also protects your skin from harsh UV rays – it absorbs damaging UV rays so your epidermis doesn't have to. This decreases signs of early aging and skin damage caused by prolonged sun exposure.
2. Fights Pesky Blemishes
Acne is caused by higher sebum production, inflammation, and bacteria in the skin. The EGCG in matcha (as we've already mentioned) helps reduce inflammation, but it also inhibits the growth of bacteria and helps reduce sebum production. It also effectively fights any damage done by environmental pollutants that can cause inflammation. But wait, there's more! EGCG also helps reduce the effects of hormonal imbalance by binding with androgen receptors to curb oily skin.
3. Promotes Blood Flow
The caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline in matcha are all methylxanthines – compounds that widen blood vessels, which help improve blood flow to the surface of the skin. With a better blood flow, your body is able to deliver nutrients and oxygen to your skin cells much easier. They also help remove waste products better. In the end, you're left with visibly brighter skin (and who doesn't love that).
4. Reduces Redness
Thanks to the high levels of EGCG, matcha allows your skin to calm down inflammation – often a result of your cells trying to fight off something. The antioxidants help to neutralize the problem so cells don't have to fight as hard. With reduced inflammation, you see less redness in your skin and clearer pores. Want to increase the effectiveness? Apply matcha straight to your skin with a face mask.
5. Gives You a ~Glow~
In case you didn't know...matcha has a ton of antioxidants (gasp!). These nutrients help boost circulation to give you a radiant and even complexion. Matcha also stimulates the elastin production in your skin, which helps make it supple – giving you a glow sans makeup.
We'll Leave You With This...
Matcha is an effective, all-natural ingredient that should be incorporated into your skincare routine. Not sure where to start your matcha skincare journey? We saved you some time and rounded up the top 10 best matcha face masks on Amazon. Enjoy!
To take full advantage of matcha green tea's many benefits, we suggest you try our top rated organic matcha powders!
Best Organic Matcha Powder
Encha Matcha
- Encha Ceremonial Grade Matcha
- Hand-picked from organic farm in Uji, Japan
- First Harvest Matcha - Vibrant green color
- Highest quality matcha, never bitter
- Our Rating: 4.9 of 5 stars
Tenzo Matcha
- Tenzo Organic Ceremonial Matcha Green Tea Powder
- Authentic Japanese Matcha
- Rich in antioxidants, helps boost metabolism
- Ceremonial Grade - Vibrant Green Color
Pique Matcha
- Pique Matcha - Organic Japanese Matcha Green Tea Powder
- Harvested from a family-owned organic tea farm in Japan
- Increases energy and focus
- Highest-quality, shade grown ceremonial-grade
- Our Rating: 4.8 of 5 stars
Kenko Matcha
- Kenko Matcha Organic Ceremonial Matcha
- Gold Class Ceremonial Grade Matcha
- Country of Origin: Japan
- First Harvest Matcha - Vibrant Green in Color
- Our Rating: 4.8 of 5 stars