Natural Sunburn Soother

• Antioxidants

Antioxidants scavenge free radicals in the skin. Green tea has a high concentration of several antioxidants. These antioxidants are rich in flavonoids, caffeine and catechins (epigallocatechin and epigallocatechin gallate (EGC and EGCG)). Catechins function as anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer agents. They help support collagen and elastin, reduce inflammation, regulate the immune system, and promote enzymatic activity within the cells.

L-theanine is an antioxidant found only in green tea and some mushrooms. It stimulates the buildup of collagen, calms the mind, rehydrates the body and helps eliminate toxins.

• Antibacterial properties

Green tea can help reduce acne bacteria, soothe skin and promote healing after harsh acne treatments such as peels and microdermabrasion.

• Amino Acids

Also known as polypeptides and polysaccharides, amino acids penetrate the skin and provide antibacterial, UVA and UVB protection, and moisture retention and improve skin texture.

• Caffeine

Caffeine gives the skin a firmer appearance as it reduces puffiness. It’s great for under the eyes and any areas where cellulite might be a concern, such as the thighs and the stomach.

GREEN TEA FOR SUNBURNS

Did you know that green tea is a popular treatment for sunburns? It effectively soothes and protects the skin from free radicals. It is also a great cooling treatment when brewed into an iced tea.

A green tea compress is the best way to soothe and treat sunburn. The first step is making the right green tea selection. Loose leaf tea is preferred over tea bags. Tea bags use other materials such as gluten, bleach and petroleum that may limit the effectiveness of the treatment.

Japanese green tea is superior to other green teas. It is grown uniquely and undergoes minimal oxidation during processing. Japanese green tea provides the perfect clean dose of healing needed for topical skin treatments.

Brew a generous amount of green tea. Be sure to steep for adequate time as to allow the water to absorb the caffeine and antioxidants from the tea. Next, place the tea in the refrigerator. Adding ice will cool the tea faster, but will dilute the mixture. It’s best to allow the tea to cool naturally.

Using soft gauze, create a cool green tea compress. Apply directly to sunburned areas. The cooling nature will reduce inflammation and redness associated with sunburn. Allow 15 to 20 minutes for absorption. This treatment can be performed daily until the sunburn has healed.

Be sure to follow up with a soothing moisturizer. Avoid heavy oils or petroleum-based products that can keep the skin from breathing and healing naturally.

MORE BENEFICIAL GREEN TEA TREATMENTS

• Foot Soaks and Body Baths

Place the tea in a muslin bag and add to the warm water for about 10 minutes and remove. Antibacterial properties heal and slimming properties benefit the hips, thighs and tummy while soothing; smoothing and moisturizing properties enhance the overall appearance and feel of the feet and body. *Remember that the tea is absorbed, an important consideration for expectant or new mothers, as well as those recovering from surgery.

• Steam Rooms and Saunas

These amenities greatly benefit from using tea. The antibacterial properties keep the rooms fresh and clean, and tea can simply be replaced for water. This can also help equipment last longer and perform better.

• Facials

The first steeping of tea contains all the caffeine, which tightens skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines. On younger skin, use a green tea mask after extractions or chemical work. For mature skin, use before the moisturizing step for better absorption.

• Back Facials

Incorporate green tea to help reduce acne, as well as heal and calm the skin post-waxing.