Why use green tea in cosmetic formulas?
Originating in China, green tea has been consumed since the dawn of time for its diuretic and antioxidant properties. But did you know that this plant was also a key ingredient in cosmetics? And with good reason: green tea prevents skin ageing and protects the skin from external aggression by fighting free radicals.
Without further ado, discover the benefits of this super-ingredient for your skin… and your hair!
The history of green tea
Although green tea is now the second most widely consumed beverage in the world, its origins date back almost 5,000 years. According to legend, the emperor Shen Nong – considered to be the father of Chinese medicine – was boiling water on the terrace of his palace when a sudden breeze deposited a few tea leaves in the water. The leaves began to infuse, releasing some very surprising aromas.
Tea was soon used for medicinal purposes. At the time, the plant was said to be capable of “curing 100 diseases”.
Like coffee, green tea was later introduced to Europe by the Dutch. In the 17th century, a Dutch ship belonging to the Dutch East Company exchanged a few crates of tea for crates of sage in the port of Java.
Green tea went on to become a major economic issue, the source of a fierce battle between the English and the Dutch. Between 1599 and 1834, the East India Company, founded by Queen Elizabeth, held a monopoly on the tea trade.
The cosmetic properties of green tea for the skin
While green tea has long been recognised for its medicinal properties, it is now a key ingredient in cosmetic products. And with 10 times the antioxidant content of black tea, it’s one of the best natural antioxidants around! These antioxidants include vitamin C, tannins and their polyphenols, as well as EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate).
As well as its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties , its caffeine content helps to stimulate the metabolism and dissolve fat. Add to that around thirty minerals (calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, etc.), lipids, vitamins and chlorophyll, and you have a real ally for looking after your home… and your outside!
Our skin particularly appreciates green tea for its antioxidant properties. As well as promoting collagen production, this plant combats the damaging effects of free radicals (pollution, tobacco, UV rays, etc.).
The parts of green tea to be used in cosmetic formulas
In order to create effective cosmetics, the industry favours certain parts of green tea over others. Green tea leavesin particular are used to create active ingredients capable of fighting free radicals. In any case, this is what Berkem Extraction, a specialist in plant extraction, has developed through the formulation of a new active ingredient: Berkemyol® green tea.
Rich in antioxidants, minerals and vitamins, the active ingredients in green tea leaves are then used to make anti-ageing, skin care and ageing prevention products, as well as daily protection products.
Berkemyol® Green Tea, an active ingredient extracted from green tea leaves
As well as the sun’s rays, dust and pollution can trigger the appearance of free radicals , which have an impact on the skin. Over time, these compounds cause the oxidation of proteins and lipids, which help to keep skin young, smooth and hydrated.
100% natural, Berkemyol® Green Tea is an active ingredient extracted from green tea leaves. Thanks to the polyphenols present inside green tea leaves, this active ingredient is able to protect the skin against external pollution, keeping it in a state of optimal youth and cohesion. In other words, it prevents skin ageing by combating both oxidative stress and the oxidation of lipid membranes.
It also improves skin suppleness by stimulating the synthesis of collagen IV and fibrillin. Finally, this active ingredient helps to re-oxygenate the skin by stimulating tissue respiration mechanisms.
To find out more, visit the Berkemyol® Green Tea product page.