Why Your Skin Needs a Dash of Matcha to Recharge

Is it just us, or has everyone jumped on board the matcha train recently? The green tea powder was merely a popular latte when it first gained traction amongst hipsters, and now it’s sprinkled on top of every possible food item, and has even made its way into the beauty industry.
What’s so great about matcha?
Matcha may have picked up steam within the past few years, but it’s actually been around since the 12th century, frequently used during Buddhist ceremonies. The powder contains a high concentration of antioxidants to heal and boost immunity, so it’s no wonder the health-conscious have grown obsessed with this superfood.
Why do we need matcha in our beauty products?
While consuming matcha can do wonders for your energy levels, it’s said to have a similar effect on the skin when applied topically. The fact that this green compound is loaded with chlorophyll and incredibly high concentrations EGCG (epigallocatechin-gallate) or polyphenols, it has the potential to protect skin cells from free radicals, which makes it one hell of an effective skincare ingredient.
These antioxidants are known for behaving like fire extinguishers – they put out any inflammation and redness, thereby repairing sun damage, acne, and even scarring. So if you’re looking to brighten those dark spots, even out skin tone, and fend off harmful environmental aggressors, we have 6 matcha-infused solutions at the ready.


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The Body Shop Japanese Matcha Tea Pollution Clearing Mask

Infused with matcha green tea from Kakegawa as well as dandelion extract, The Body Shop’s new face mask purifies the skin and protects it against pollution adhesion. You’ll find natural exfoliating loofah particles in this creamy formula too, so go ahead and give your face a gentle scrub for a fresher complexion.
$32, available at The Body Shop stores from 7 September


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First Aid Beauty Hello FAB Caffeine Matcha Wake Up Wipes

Not just for a refreshing morning cleanse, these energising wipes are actually best suited for a sweaty mid-day touchup. Spiked with antioxidant-rich matcha, brightening vitamin C, calming aloe vera, and revitalising caffeine, these pre-moistened towelettes cleanse and protect the skin from environmental aggressors.
$25, available at Sephora and sephora.sg


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100% Pure Organic Matcha Anti-Aging Shielding Serum

Trust 100% Pure when they say they’re 100% pure, because you’re getting the highest quality nature has to offer. This matcha emulsion tonique is no exception. There’s plumping hyaluronic acid in the formula, as well as soothing niacinamide and our star of the show, matcha. Use it as a toner or essence to rebalance and hydrate your skin to prep it for the rest of your routine.
$89, available at 100percentpure.com.sg


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Sister & Co. Raw Coconut & Matcha Green Tea Sugar

This all-natural sugar scrub is just what you need to unwind after a long day. With loose matcha green tea leaves to detoxify and replenish, you’ll feel completely at ease as you massage it all over. The combination of coconut oil, rosemary, and jasmine makes for a soothing aromatic experience, too.
$51.70, available at asos.com


 

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John Masters Organics Green Tea & Rose Hydrating Face Serum

 
A clever blend of green tea and rice extract helps to restore and repair dehydrated skin, while sea algae and omega-6-rich sunflower oil hydrates and joins forces to block out any environmental pollutants.
$43, available at budcosmetics.com