Many know that Tea contains high levels of anti-oxidants and are good for the skin. But which teas are good for acne in particular?

I remember as a teenager one of my first experiences with herbal tea was a skin cleansing tonic. It tasted differently to other types of tea that I'd have before, but I kept at it for a few weeks. Slowly but surely, my skin did improve. I suppose that left a lasting impression on me as I started to explore the herbal tea world a little more over time.

I came to learn that for many of the ailments the human body can experience, there is usually at one herbal tea that can be of some use. Anyway back on topic, it turns out that some teas do have a direct effect on acne so let's break them down one by one and find out what they are, and how they work.

Rooibos Tea

Also called Red Bush and Aspalathus linearis, this tea has a range of additional benefits other than for acne and has seen a steady increase in popularity over the years. Backed by both testimonies and scientific studies, this red tea is native to South Africa.

With low levels of tannins and being a caffeine free tea, it's often used as a healthier alternative to coffee.

How does Rooibos teat acne?

Rooibos contains nothofagin, aspalathin and superoxide dismutase. These three types of anti-oxidants and the anti-inflammatory properties of Rooibos help to prevent damage to the skin, and helps to prevent the formation of bacterial colonies on the face.

The way the majority of acne works is that bacterial will group up within the pores - thus prompting an immune response that causes red marks on the face. Remove the bacteria and prevent the formation of groups of it, and you'll see a big reduction in acne.

Immune system regulation is another property of Rooibos, thanks to certain chemicals contained within. It will help with the re-occurrence of breakouts and better control the immune response to bacteria. Zinc is also contained within Rooibos and helps to balance the hormonal system, which can be another reason for pimples popping up here and there.

If you're using Rooibos for acne reduction, we recommend drinking 3-4 cups daily and letting it steep for 10 mins each time.

Chamomile Tea

Everyone knows that Chamomile is for relaxation, but did you know it has anti-inflammatory properties too? Often used for psoriasis, eczema and acne and has been used by ancient cultures dating back millennia.

How does Chamomile teat acne?

Anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties within Chamomile are the base reason for it's effectiveness at fighting acne. Mast cells release histamine and this is slowed down and reduced by this herb. Along with the physical benefits, we also have the mental benefits of Chamomile too...

Stress can also be a cause of acne, and with the relaxation properties of Chamomile you're getting a double down protection against it by attacking it from both angles.

This herb is also strongly recommended topically (on the skin) due to it's aforementioned anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and has been known to reduce the severity of scarring.

Spearmint Tea

Spearmint is used in a variety of things such as soap, sweets, and toothpaste due to it's uniquely fresh flavour. It's also useful in the fight against acne with an equally unique property of being able to control and balance the levels of free testosterone within the body while not reducing the actual total levels actively used.

How does Spearmint help fight acne?

In contrast to Rooibos and Chamomile, Spearmint is mainly used as a protective herb in regards to acne. It's ability to reduce the oxidation of fats within the body is very useful against acne, which will otherwise turn into harmful free radicals that are known to be detrimental to the skin.

Sebum is also found on the skin. When this hardens too quickly or is just in the wrong condition, it's going to clog up the pores and allow the formation of those bacterial colonies we spoke of earlier. Spearmint can help to promote healthy sebum that isn't as easily affected by environmental circumstance.

Interestingly, while this herb can help to reduce the levels of testosterone within males - it can increase the levels of estrogen within females. Increased levels of estrogen are linked with having clear and healthy skin.