Tea (Green, Black, and White)

Many studies show that black, green, and white teas have potent antioxidant, as well as anticarcinogenic, properties. However, there is only limited information about its effect on skin. The Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology (December 31, 2001) stated that polyphenols "are the active ingredients in green tea and possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties. Studies conducted by our group on human skin have demonstrated that green tea polyphenols (GTP) prevent ultraviolet (UV)-B...-induced immune suppression and skin cancer induction."

Green tea and the other teas show a good deal of promise for skin but it is not quite the miracle that cosmetics and health food companies make it out to be. What aren't disputed are the anti-inflammatory properties of tea (black, white, and green). They are definitely potent antioxidants. All of that is very good for skin but whether or not it has any effect on wrinkles or scars is speculation, not fact.