TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The trend of consuming matcha, which is claimed to promote beautiful and glowing skin, is gaining popularity, especially due to its association with anti-aging effects, acne prevention, and increased skin moisture.
Scientifically, Nuri Andarwulan, Professor of the Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, IPB University, stated that matcha is rich in catechins, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has antioxidant properties. However, its benefits are not as simple as claims on social media.
"Matcha is green tea powder produced through a special process. It is shaded for about three to four weeks before harvest to increase chlorophyll (shade-growing). After drying, the leaves are ground very finely into a flour," said Nuri in a written statement on Thursday, February 26, 2026.
According to her, because it is consumed in whole powder form, matcha absorbs more nutrients than brewed tea. "Matcha has a higher catechin content. EGCG in matcha can reach more than 120 mg per gram, higher than regular green tea," she said.
However, she emphasized that phenolic compounds like EGCG have low bioavailability (absorption) in humans. "If absorbed, it's very small, under five percent. Most of it enters the large intestine and is metabolized by the microbiota into derivative compounds (metabolites)," said Nuri.
According to Nuri, these metabolites can then be absorbed into the bloodstream and exert biological effects, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects, including on skin cells. These biological effects are partly due to the polyphenol compounds contained in matcha.
Free radicals from UV exposure, pollution, and an unbalanced lifestyle can damage collagen and elastin in the middle layer of the skin (dermis). This damage leads to premature aging and wrinkles. "Polyphenol compounds help ward off free radicals, thereby reducing inflammation and maintaining collagen integrity," she said.
The Most Effective Method
Regarding the effectiveness of oral or topical consumption, Nuri stated that the two complement each other. "The ideal combination is internal intake for systemic protection and topical for local protection on the skin's surface," she said.
She added that skin improvement through dietary intake is gradual and long-term because it works from within the cells, especially in the dermis and epidermis. Meanwhile, topical products work more quickly on the skin's surface, but their effects are temporary and require regular application to maintain the skin's protective function.
Beyond these benefits, Nuri cautions against consumption. Matcha contains a high amount of insoluble fiber because it is consumed as a whole leaf powder. "If consumed excessively and without sufficient fluids, it can cause digestive disorders such as constipation. In extreme cases, in certain individuals, it can trigger gastrointestinal problems," she explained.
Therefore, she said, consumption should remain moderate and avoid being caught up in exaggerated claims. "Matcha can be part of a balanced diet, but it is not an instant solution for glowing skin," she said.
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