In recent times, Korean skincare has achieved widespread fame for its groundbreaking and efficient methods. One of the latest crazes is Korean retinol tea, which has gained popularity for its alleged ability to promote youthful and glowing skin. While retinol is a well-known ingredient in skincare products used on the skin, the concept of drinking it through tea brings up questions regarding its efficacy and safety. To help clarify the facts about this drink, we consulted experts in nutrition and medicine for their insights into the science and myths of Korean retinol tea.

How Retinol Improves Skin Health — Explained by Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD

Retinol, known as a form of vitamin A, is celebrated for its strong skin-renewing abilities. According to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, a registered dietitian nutritionist and owner of Eat Well Gulf Coast, retinol works by increasing skin cell turnover, helping to shed old cells while promoting the emergence of newer, healthier ones. This action aids in minimizing fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. Additionally, retinol enhances collagen production, which plays a crucial role in improving skin thickness and flexibility, essential aspects of maintaining youthful skin.

Although the effects of retinol when applied directly to the skin are well-researched, its effectiveness when ingested is less understood. Bourgeois points out that “while eating foods high in vitamin A benefits general skin health, the bioavailability and concentration levels in tea infusions are inconsistent and usually much lower than those found in topical products.” Understanding this difference is important when considering the potential advantages 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:

• Persimmon leaves: Contain antioxidants and polyphenols that help protect skin cells from oxidative stress.

• Green tea: Rich in catechins, it has been documented to reduce skin inflammation and support skin barrier function.

• 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:

• 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.

• 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.

• 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:

• Antioxidant support from multiple herbs helps reduce oxidative damage linked to aging and chronic diseases.

• Mild anti-inflammatory effects can improve digestive health and reduce systemic inflammation.

• 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:

• Mugwort may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to ragweed or related plants.

• Excessive consumption of green tea can lead to mild caffeine-related symptoms such as jitteriness or sleep disruption.

• 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:

• Use dried persimmon leaves, high-quality green tea leaves, and dried mugwort in approximately equal parts.

• Steep about one teaspoon of the blended herbs in hot water (around 80–85°C) for 5-7 minutes to preserve delicate antioxidants.

• Adding a slice of lemon can enhance vitamin C content and aid in antioxidant absorption.

• 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.

Soundhealthandlastingwealth.com offer the most up-to-date information from top experts, new research, and health agencies, but our content is not meant to be a substitute for professional guidance. When it comes to the medication you’re taking or any other health questions you have, always consult your healthcare provider directly.