Why are Acne Treatment and Anti-Aging Skincare Products Starting to Use Red Tea?

For healthy skin, Americans spend billions of dollars on acne treatment and anti-aging skincare products every year. Let’s face it — who isn’t affected? Acne is the most commonly diagnosed skin condition, and no one can avoid the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines as they get older.

The beauty industry is always on the lookout for ingredients that will help improve skin tone, treat acne and prevent the signs of aging. Red tea, made from the leaves of the South African Aspalathus linearis plant, has recently become more popular both as a beverage and a skincare ingredient. Skincare manufacturers are touting it as “the next green tea”, or “the next white tea” and are using it in acne treatments and anti-aging products. The benefits attributed to the plant range from antioxidant content to antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activity.

Red tea contains antioxidant phytochemicals called flavonoids. Studies suggest that flavonoids can prevent cellular damage from free radicals and ultraviolet light, which is why red tea is used in anti-aging skincare products.

Early studies and anecdotal evidence have suggested that red tea may improve immune function, kill bacteria and reduce inflammation. This has led manufacturers to include it in acne treatment products for clean, healthy skin.

Experience red tea for yourself: Try Dr. Goldfaden's Pearlescent Wash & Cleanser.

• Read more skincare articles from Cosmesis