When the heat stretches into a third day of 100°F weather, a chilled smoothie and a refreshing green tea facial are the perfect remedies. Start by making a cold infusion with good filtered water and organic green tea.
Use high-quality, organic leaves and cool-steep them for a few minutes. Once the infusion has developed its flavor, strain the leaves and pour the tea into a small spritzer bottle—this chilled tea will become a soothing facial mist.
The leaves only need a short steep before straining. Pour some of the cooled tea into a spritz bottle for later use—this will be liquid gold for your skin.
To give your skin an antioxidant boost, pour some of the cooled tea over a compressed sheet mask—these bloom and expand as they absorb the liquid. Unfold the mask carefully and place it over your face.
I like to lie down on a cool surface—whether a chilled sofa or tile floor—while the mask works. It’s especially satisfying on a sweltering day.
Spritz the mask occasionally to keep it moist and press it gently against your face. Sip the remaining green tea while you relax—the cool, light flavor is pleasant and not bitter. Leave the mask on for 10–15 minutes, refreshing with intermittent spritzes. After removing it, your skin should feel noticeably softer and more refreshed.
I keep the filled spritzer in the refrigerator and mist my face throughout the day. Be sure to empty and clean the bottle every 24 hours. A chilled spritz also makes a great companion for picnics, beach trips, or outdoor sporting events—especially after being out in intense heat.
I first discovered these tea facial products from a small family-owned business at a tea expo and tried one of their spa kits. The kit included glass pots, a strainer, a tea cup, a spritzer bottle, organic green tea, facial masks, a muslin bag for soaks, and a tray—everything needed for a relaxing at-home treatment. It’s a handy set to bring along on a weekend getaway.
With a bit of cooled green tea left over, the next logical step is a chilled smoothie. Below is a quick recipe that combines frozen peaches, green tea, and a touch of Greek yogurt for a refreshing drink.
| Green Tea Peach Smoothie |
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- 1/2 c. green tea, cooled
- 3 T. non-fat greek yogurt
- 1 c. frozen, diced peaches
- Sugar, honey, or stevia to taste
- Blend all ingredients until smooth or slightly chunky. Leaving a few chunks of frozen peach keeps the drink colder longer and adds a refreshing bite.
- Variation: Substitute frozen mango for peaches. Mango is sweeter, so reduce sweetener as needed.