Green tea. . . it’s not just for sipping

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I hope that you are sipping on a nice cup of green tea as you read this. After all, it is the theme of today’s post. You may know some of the benefits attributed to green tea–lowers cholesterol, protects against sun damage, heals inflammation. . . the list goes on and on. It is the high concentration of powerful antioxidants (called polyphenols) found in green tea leaves that are responsible for its use as a medicinal aid. These polyphenols help fight against free radicals–which according to the University of Maryland’s Medical Center are “damaging compounds in the body that change cells, damage DNA, and even cause cell death.”

Green tea when used topically has anti-inflammatory properties that can be both soothing and healing for rosacea, acne, and sun damage. I know I write a lot about remedies and ingredients that have anti-inflammatory properties, but in fact inflammation is the cause of many skin ailments whether it be an infection like pimples or signs of aging caused by sun exposure.

That’s where this fabulous recipe comes in. It’s made with matcha (powdered green tea leaves) and coconut oil. When applied, this bright green face mask feels incredible! Its texture is silky smooth and leaves the skin feeling cleansed and moisturized. If you are worried about the idea of putting coconut oil on your face (or any oil on your face for that matter) do not fear! Coconut oil is actually incredibly antiseptic (lauric acid, the main saturated fat, is attributed to this benefit). If you prefer, honey (also antiseptic) can be substituted for the oil.

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Matcha Green Tea Face Mask

1 tsp matcha green tea powder (organic is best)

1/2 tsp cold pressed virgin coconut oil (or honey)

1/2-1 tsp water

Mix all ingredients in a small bowl until desired consistency (not too watery, not too thick). Apply to a freshly cleansed face (it is easiest to use a clean makeup brush…feels amazing too!). Sit back, sip some green tea, and relax! You can leave it on until it dries, or for up to an hour. Wash off with warm water and follow up with your favourite face oil or moisturizer. Be prepared to see your skin glow after this one!

What’s your favourite use for green tea? Please share!

Until next time,

Seanna

Bringing the Spa Home

What’s keeping you from staying in tonight? Work? Errands? Dinner plans? Well forget all of that for one night, invite a friend over and relaaaaax.

Lina and I love this little ritual. Amidst our hectic schedules, it’s amazing how easy (and cheap) it can be to find a little zen.

A couple evenings ago, we put on some Ella Fitzgerald and steeped a pot of Rouge Provence made by Sloane Tea Company and enjoyed some of life’s simplest luxuries. Really- what could be more luxurious than a tea made of rosehip, rose petals, lavender and currents? Sloane teas are individually sourced, processed using centuries old artisanal techniques and custom blended by their team of tea sommeliers. If that isn’t luxurious enough, they come packaged in the loveliest tins- reminiscent of boudoir perfume containers.

Rouge Provence, Sloan Tea Company

Also incorporated into our ritual of tea drinking and jazz is always a face mask. There are many fantastic homemade face masks that are simple to make such as the gentle exfoliating oatmeal Bombay Cleanser or the soothing Red Wine Facial. For occasions like this though, or when we want to treat ourselves, we buy a fresh face mask from Lush. Now, I have a bit of a love/hate relationship with Lush. For one, I cannot enter the store without almost fainting from the scent. Many of Lush products are not 100% natural and often cause problems with individuals with allergies- especially ones with sensitivity to fragrance.

I have always loved Lush’s face masks, however, which use fresh ingredients and must be stored in the fridge. This time I bought BB Seaweed, made of mineral rich seaweed and anti-inflammatory rose absolute, it exfoliates with almond meal, while moisturizing with olive oil and leaves skin feeling soft and naturally nourished. If you are looking for a mask that is tightening and toning, Ayesha is also a favourite. Made of vitamin C -rich kiwi, astringent witch hazel, and calming honey, this face mask soothingly cleanses and brightens dull and tired looking skin.

Lush BB Seaweed face mask

So the secret’s out- that is, how we survive the crazy work weeks and get pampered without even leaving the house. 😉

I encourage you to discover your own little luxuries and stay in tonight!

Seanna