In recent years, Korean skincare has gained global recognition for its innovative and effective approaches. Among these, Korean retinol tea has emerged as a popular trend, touted for its promise of youthful, radiant skin. While retinol is widely celebrated in topical skincare products, the idea of consuming it through tea raises questions about its effectiveness and safety. To clarify the reality behind this beverage, we asked experts from nutrition and medicine fields to weigh in on the science and myths surrounding Korean retinol tea.
How Retinol Improves Skin Health — Explained by Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD
Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, is renowned for its powerful skin-rejuvenating properties. Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, a registered dietitian nutritionist and owner of Eat Well Gulf Coast, explains that retinol stimulates skin cell turnover, encouraging old cells to shed and new, healthier ones to emerge. This process helps reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation irregularities. Retinol also boosts collagen production, which enhances skin thickness and elasticity, key factors in maintaining a youthful appearance.
When applied topically, retinol’s effects have been extensively studied; however, its role in dietary consumption is less clear. “While consuming foods rich in vitamin A supports overall skin health, the bioavailability and concentration from tea infusions are variable and typically much lower than topical formulations,” Bourgeois notes. This distinction is critical in understanding the potential benefits and limitations of Korean retinol tea.
Is the Korean Tea Really Made with Retinol? — Explained by Maria Knöbel, MBBS, BSc(hons)
Maria Knöbel, a primary care doctor based in London and certified in Lifestyle Medicine, clarifies a common misconception about Korean retinol tea: it isn’t made by directly adding retinol but is instead brewed from plants that contain retinoid-like compounds. “The tea is named for its perceived retinol-like skin benefits rather than its actual retinol content,” she explains. “Retinol itself is not stable in water and is unlikely to be present in significant amounts in a tea infusion.”
Instead, the tea’s benefits come from botanical ingredients traditionally used in Korean herbal medicine. These natural compounds interact synergistically to support skin health but differ from retinol’s chemical structure and potency. Understanding this nuance is important for consumers with high expectations based solely on the tea’s name.
So What Is Korean Retinol Tea?
Korean retinol tea is an herbal blend composed primarily of persimmon leaves, as well as green tea and mugwort. These ingredients have long been incorporated into traditional Korean remedies for their anti-aging and anti-inflammatory qualities. The term “retinol” is used more as a marketing element reflecting the tea’s association with skin benefits rather than a literal ingredient.
The key components are:
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Persimmon leaves: Contain antioxidants and polyphenols that help protect skin cells from oxidative stress.
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Green tea: Rich in catechins, it has been documented to reduce skin inflammation and support skin barrier function.
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Mugwort: Traditionally valued for calming effects on skin redness and irritation.
This unique blend collectively promotes healthier-looking skin through multiple mechanisms unrelated to the topical vitamin A form.
Can Korean Retinol Tea Really Help With Skin Aging?
The individual ingredients in Korean retinol tea offer promising skin benefits:
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Persimmon leaves firm skin: Studies indicate that extracts from persimmon leaves enhance collagen synthesis and offer antioxidant protection, which can reduce signs of aging. Anecdotal reports from users often mention improved skin texture and reduced sagging after regular consumption.
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Green tea tames inflammation: Scientific literature supports green tea’s ability to calm inflammatory skin conditions and prevent UV damage by scavenging free radicals. For example, a 2022 study published in Phytotherapy Research found that green tea polyphenols reduced skin redness and swelling when taken orally.
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Mugwort reduces redness: Mugwort has been used in traditional medicine to soothe irritated skin, making it valuable for redness reduction and sensitivity relief.
Although these benefits are rooted in solid botanical science, it is essential to recognize that drinking this tea is complementary rather than equivalent to clinical anti-aging treatments. Regular intake may support skin health from within but won’t match retinol’s dramatic effects seen in topical skincare.
Other Benefits of Korean Retinol Tea
Beyond skin health, Korean retinol tea offers additional wellness advantages:
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Antioxidant support from multiple herbs helps reduce oxidative damage linked to aging and chronic diseases.
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Mild anti-inflammatory effects can improve digestive health and reduce systemic inflammation.
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Relaxation benefits owing to soothing ingredients like mugwort may improve sleep quality, indirectly benefiting skin through better restorative cycles.
Anecdotal evidence suggests many consumers appreciate the ritual of preparing and drinking this tea as part of a mindful self-care practice.
Potential Side Effects of Korean Retinol Tea
While the ingredients are generally considered safe, some users may experience mild side effects:
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Mugwort may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to ragweed or related plants.
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Excessive consumption of green tea can lead to mild caffeine-related symptoms such as jitteriness or sleep disruption.
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Persimmon leaves should be consumed in moderation due to potential tannins that might affect digestion if taken in large quantities.
Consumers with preexisting medical conditions or those who are pregnant should consult healthcare providers before adding new herbal teas to their routine.
How to Make Korean Retinol Tea—And Boost the Benefits
Preparing the tea at home is simple and allows customization for maximum benefit:
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Use dried persimmon leaves, high-quality green tea leaves, and dried mugwort in approximately equal parts.
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Steep about one teaspoon of the blended herbs in hot water (around 80–85°C) for 5-7 minutes to preserve delicate antioxidants.
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Adding a slice of lemon can enhance vitamin C content and aid in antioxidant absorption.
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Avoid boiling the herbs directly, which may degrade beneficial compounds.
Incorporating this tea into a balanced skincare and nutrition regimen can help maximize its effects on skin vitality and overall wellness.
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