Hibiscus tea has a gorgeous magenta color and a zesty fruity taste, but its skin care benefits extend beyond its flavor profile.
First: Hibiscus tea is highly anti-inflammatory because of it. Rich levels of antioxidants1contains vitamin C beta carotene 2It also contains certain anti-inflammatory agents. plant pigments called anthocyanins1 (This is what gives the plant its pink-red hue). All of these antioxidants help neutralize free radicals in the skin that cause signs of photoaging such as sunburn and fine lines.
Additionally, hibiscus is rich in an antioxidant called myricetin. This compound inhibits collagenase, an enzyme that targets and breaks down collagen. Collagen levels naturally decline as we age, but the antioxidants in myricetin slow that process and help keep skin supple and firm.The plant also contains vitamin C. Therefore, it helps to promote the body’s natural collagen production. Remember that vitamin C is necessary for collagen synthesis (aka the body cannot produce collagen properly without antioxidants).
Given these benefits, it’s no wonder many people consider hibiscus tea to be the skin’s “natural collagen booster.” In addition to helping the natural collagen production process, it can actually slow down the breakdown of collagen.