When I started formulating Enlumine, I had one question in mind: what could I put on the skin that would make every minute under red light count for more?
Green tea became one of the ingredients I wanted to explore.
What the research found
In a 2009 study, researchers applied green tea before 670 nm red LED light. They reported visible skin rejuvenation in one month, compared with ten months of light treatment alone. That is a striking early result. The report tested the green tea and light protocol, not a finished EnLumine product.
That result shaped how I thought about EnLumine: skincare developed with the light session in mind. You will find green tea extract in the collection, alongside peptides and other carefully chosen ingredients.
Why green tea and light work together
Red and near-infrared light have been studied for changes in skin appearance, including fine lines. Green tea contains antioxidant compounds, including EGCG. Researchers have proposed that antioxidants might affect how skin responds to light, but the mechanism and the best topical formulation are not settled.
Green tea brings antioxidant support to the routine. That is the science behind pairing it with a light session, even while researchers continue to study the exact mechanism.
Green tea is also used in skincare for its antioxidant and soothing properties. How a finished product performs depends on the concentration and the entire formula.
How to use the pairing
If your mask allows skincare beneath it, apply a thin layer and let it absorb before treatment. The 2009 protocol used green tea before the light; it does not prove that every serum must be worn during every session.
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Cleanse your face.
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Mist with Treatment Mist.
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Press the Ultimate Photon Elixir into your face and neck.
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Complete your light session.
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Finish with Ageless Cream.
For more on layering, see what to put on your skin before red light therapy.
Why pair green tea with red light therapy?
Green tea is especially interesting alongside red light because of its antioxidant compounds, including EGCG. Research has shown that applying green tea before red LED treatment can help accelerate visible skin rejuvenation, making it a natural pairing for a light-based skincare routine.
What to take from the evidence
Green tea and red light make a compelling pairing. That early result is one reason I wanted this ingredient in the EnLumine light therapy routine. Keep your protocol comfortable and consistent.
Can green tea enhance red light therapy results?
Yes — green tea is one of the most interesting ingredients to pair with red light therapy. Research has shown that applying green tea before red LED treatment may help accelerate visible skin rejuvenation, which is why we love combining antioxidant-rich skincare with light.
Should I apply green tea before or after red light therapy?
Before. In the published protocol, green tea was applied prior to the red light session. For best use with a mask, apply a light layer of skincare, allow it to absorb, then begin your treatment.
What is EGCG?
EGCG, or epigallocatechin gallate, is one of the most researched compounds in green tea. It’s a powerful antioxidant that helps defend the skin against oxidative stress and supports a brighter, healthier-looking complexion — making it a natural fit for a light-based skincare routine.
Can I just use brewed green tea from my kitchen?
A formulated skincare product is the better choice. Professional formulas are designed for skin with controlled concentrations, stability, texture, and absorption, while brewed tea can vary significantly and isn’t designed to sit under a light therapy mask.
