Brew-tiful or Breakout Brew? The Skin Scorecard You Didn’t Know You Needed

In a refreshing twist to skincare advice, Dr Iftekhar Khan, dermatologist and hair transplant surgeon at AIIMS Delhi, has stirred up conversation by rating popular beverages based on their impact on skin health. From matcha to bubble tea, cold coffee to soda, his rankings reveal which drinks nourish your skin and which ones might be sabotaging your glow. Shared via his Instagram post on September 17, the ratings are both surprising and insightful, especially for Gen Z and wellness-conscious consumers.

Key takeaways from Dr Khan’s skin-health beverage ratings

1. Matcha tea tops the chart  
   - Matcha, a powdered form of green tea, earned the highest rating of 10 out of 10  
   - Rich in antioxidants like EGCG, matcha helps fight free radicals, reduce inflammation, and support collagen production  
   - Its concentrated nutrient profile makes it a powerhouse for skin clarity, elasticity, and overall radiance

2. Green tea comes close behind  
   - Green tea scored a solid 9 out of 10  
   - Known for its catechins and anti-inflammatory properties, it helps reduce redness and acne-causing bacteria  
   - Regular consumption can support gut health, which in turn improves skin texture and tone

3. Bubble tea: sweet but problematic  
   - Bubble tea or boba, while visually appealing and trendy, received a rating of 8 to 10 for sugar content and indulgence  
   - The high sugar levels can spike insulin, leading to increased oil production and potential breakouts  
   - Dr Khan warns that while it’s fun, it’s not skin-friendly in the long run

4. Cold coffee and frappes: a mixed bag  
   - These drinks scored 6 out of 10  
   - While coffee contains antioxidants, the added sugar and dairy in cold versions can trigger flare-ups and weight gain  
   - Black coffee is a better alternative for those concerned about skin health

5. Soda: the skin saboteur  
   - Regular soda received the lowest rating of 5 out of 10  
   - Artificial sweeteners and preservatives can disrupt gut microbiota, which plays a crucial role in skin clarity  
   - Soda consumption is linked to inflammation, dullness, and premature aging

Broader insights from the dermatologist’s review

- The gut-skin axis is central to Dr Khan’s analysis. Drinks that support gut health tend to improve skin, while those that disrupt it can lead to acne, dullness, and sensitivity  
- Antioxidants are the heroes in this lineup. Beverages rich in polyphenols, catechins, and EGCG help neutralize oxidative stress and promote skin healing  
- Sugar is the villain. High-sugar drinks, even if trendy, can accelerate aging, increase inflammation, and worsen acne

Why this matters for skincare routines

- Skincare is no longer just about serums and sunscreens. What you sip daily can either amplify or undermine your efforts  
- With the rise of holistic wellness, consumers are increasingly looking at diet and lifestyle as part of their beauty regimen  
- Dr Khan’s ratings offer a simple, relatable guide to making smarter beverage choices for better skin

Final thoughts

Dr Khan’s beverage ratings are a wake-up call for anyone chasing glowing skin through external products alone. The message is clear: beauty begins from within, and your drink choices matter. Whether you’re sipping matcha for its glow-boosting benefits or reconsidering that daily soda, this list offers a practical roadmap to skin-friendly hydration.

Sources: Hindustan Times, AIIMS Delhi, Instagram (@dermdoc_khan).