Affordable Acne Treatments

Green tea has been used as a natural remedy for acne for a long time. It is well known for its health benefits and has been used in China for many, many years to cure all sorts of conditions. It is high in a chemical called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) which is an antioxidant. Scientific studies have found that it can inhibit cancer cells and green tea has also been shown to be active in treating cardiovascular disease, infections and in reducing cholesterol levels.

Some studies have shown that EGCG, in addition to acting as an an anti-inflammatory agent, can help to improve inflammation of the skin that occurs with acne. In one study the American Academy of Dermatology applied a 1% concentration of epigallocatechin gallate in a cream which, when applied to the skin, improved the acne at least as well as, and often an improvement on, a cream of benzoyl peroxide. Also the EGCG cream didn’t result in drying out to the skin which is a common problem with using benzoyl peroxide or many other treatments for acne.

Lotions and creams can be bought over the counter that contain green tea or you can make one in your kitchen. Take some green tea, add to some water and heat to the boil, then gently apply the cooled down preparation to affected areas. In addition you could make a drink of green tea which will allow the ingredients to begin to work from within. Have at least 3 cups every day and apply the preparation containing green tea to the skin up to three times a day. In a few weeks you should see an improvement in your acne and you will have a healthier skin.

There are lots of uses for green tea for dieting and skin conditions, treatment of acne is just one of them. As with all natural acne home remedies you should integrate this treatment with a healthy lifestyle which should include drinking eight glasses of water every day and eating a nutritious diet. Do not despair if your acne does not clear immediately. As is common with all natural remedies for acne green tea treatment will improve the health of your skin over time.