Rooibos tea is a sweet infusion, excellent to sip in the evening given the absence of caffeine. But the rooibos that we keep in our cupboard can also become a precious cosmetic for facial skin, both in case of acne and irritation and wrinkles and photoaging. Let's see what science says about it and how we can create DIY beauty products with rooibos tea, simple and in just a few steps.
Rooibos tea for the skin, what science says
Rooibos, scientific name Aspalathus linearis, provides antioxidants, among which a substance called aspalathin stands out, which counteract the aging processes, photoaging, inflammation and cellular degeneration (Marnewick et al, Cancer Lett, 2005 - Cavinato et al, Biogerontology, 2017). Studies have shown that it is possible to exploit the synergy between rooibos and green tea to reduce wrinkles by almost 10% and give the skin a smoother appearance (Chuarienthong et al, Int J Cosmet Sci, 2010). The rooibos infusion also contains minerals, such as zinc, which helps combat conditions such as acne, erythema and melasma, or dark skin spots (Mabuza et al, Biol Trace Elem Res, 2021 - Gupta et al, Dermatol Res Pract., 2014).
Rooibos tea, where it is found and which one to choose
Rooibos can be found in supermarkets and specialized shops. It is available in two versions, namely the fermented version, called red rooibos, and the non-fermented version, or green rooibos. Fermented rooibos tea contains fewer antioxidants than the green version (Canda et al, Oxid Med Cell Longev, 2014). Therefore, to make the most of the properties of rooibos, the advice is to choose green rooibos.
Rooibos tea as a cosmetic, uses and applications
Start by preparing an infusion with rooibos. Bring a cup of water to the boil, remove from the heat and add a teaspoon of rooibos leaves. Leave to infuse for 5 minutes, then filter. Let it cool, then dip a gauze and pass it over your face. This is an excellent remedy in case of acne, rashes and skin irritations, but also sunburnt or sun-stressed skin and mature skin. It is also possible to make a mask based on rooibos tea and green tea, to take advantage of the synergy seen previously. Prepare an infusion of rooibos tea, as just explained, and one of green tea, in this case the leaves are left to infuse for 10 minutes in water at 70° C. In a bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of oat flour, which is antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and hydrating, and add rooibos and green tea in equal quantities until you obtain a mixture that spreads easily on the face. Apply on a clean face for 15 minutes, then rinse and continue with your usual treatment.
