Yes, the popularity of matcha is still going strong. On Tiktok, the hashtag #matcha has amassed over 160 million views, with influencers proclaiming the many virtues of swapping their morning coffee for the pulverised green tea drink. Former Victoria’s Secret model Sanne Vloet has even launched her own matcha brand. The buzz around matcha is easy to understand: Though it contains caffeine, it also contains the relaxing amino acid L-theanine, meaning it has the ability to boost energy without causing jitters or spiking cortisol. Plus, it contains polyphenols—exceptionally powerful antioxidants—as well Vitamin C and chlorophyll. “Matcha contains high amounts of substances with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects,” explains a recent scientific review. “It has promising potential health benefits, mainly through a high concentration of catechins. With regular consumption, it may support the body’s efforts to maintain health and prevent disease.”
Naturally, anything that boosts wellbeing internally is bound to influence the body’s external appearance as well. Read on for some of the lesser-known, scientifically-studied beauty benefits of matcha and green tea when consumed or applied topically.
Healthier scalp and hair
Hormonal hair loss—also known as androgenetic alopecia—is influenced by testosterone and dihydrotestosterone, but some research shows that the catechin EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) present in green tea can mitigate the effects of these hormones, helping to slow hair loss. Furthermore, some studies show that EGCG stimulates hair follicles and prevents damage to hair cells, thus increasing hair growth.
Clearer skin
As mentioned, the catechin EGCG has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. It also has antibacterial properties, which studies show may help to improve acne. EGCG can also help lower lipid levels, thus reducing sebum production in the skin, reducing the potential of clogged pores and the development of acne.
Matcha also contains chlorophyll, which can further aid skin rejuvenation. Some studies show that chlorophyll may help reduce inflammation, pore size, and bacterial growth.
Fewer wrinkles and less sun damage
Matcha is loaded with antioxidants, particularly those aforementioned catechins, which help fight free radicals. As we’ve all heard, free radicals can accelerate aging by damaging skin cells and contributing to the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. According to one study, the polyphenols in green tea may help prevent UVB light-induced skin disorders—including photoaging and skin cancer. Another study even found that a combination of topical and oral consumption of green tea benefits skin elasticity.
Another study found that chlorophyll, which is present in green tea, may also reduce sun damage when applied topically. And, we all know the benefits of Vitamin C when it comes to building collagen—and matcha is full of vitamin C.
Less cellulite and puffiness
While there’s no easy fix for cellulite, there is a reason that so many anti-cellulite skincare products contain caffeine. “Caffeine, which is the major alkaloid present in tea leaves, is a very effective natural agent in the reduction of cellulite,” a recent scientific review found. “When topically applied, it inhibits fat accumulation in the hypodermis and decreases the number of adipocyte [fat] cells.”
And not just that: the polyphenols present in green tea may also be effective at reducing cellulite and body fat. “Oral ingestion as well as topical application of tea extracts was described to reduce weight and decrease adipose tissue [body fat] content,” the review, which looked at 24 clinical placebo-controlled trials states. In other words: “Significant weight loss and reduction of skin fat tissue was observed.”
This story was originally published on Vogue.com.
