Green Tea Fresh Emulsion
Green Tea Fresh Emulsion
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, fast-absorbing emulsion enriched with Jeju Island green tea extract that balances oil and moisture while soothing irritated skin. Formulated with Anti-Sebum P(HD) complex to control excess sebum without stripping the skin.
Jeju Green Tea Extract
High-quality green tea from pristine Jeju Island rich in EGCG catechins for powerful antioxidant protection and sebum regulation.
Texture & feel
SENSORYJeju Green Tea Extract
High-quality green tea from pristine Jeju Island rich in EGCG catechins for powerful antioxidant protection and sebum regulation.
Anti-Sebum P(HD) Complex
Proprietary blend featuring Evening Primrose, Pine, and Elm extracts that work synergistically to control excess oil production.
Centella Asiatica
Cica extract soothes irritation, reduces redness, and strengthens the skin barrier for healthier, calmer skin.
Beta-Glucan & Allantoin
Gentle soothing agents that provide deep hydration while calming sensitive, stressed skin without heaviness.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, high-concentration acids, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Contains only gentle plant extracts safe during pregnancy.
Contains Cetyl Ethylhexanoate (ester) and Beeswax which may feed malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne sufferers.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free formula with EWG 1-2 grade ingredients. Dermatologically tested and clinically proven non-irritating.
Willow Bark Extract provides very gentle, natural salicylic acid. Concentration is minimal and suitable for daily use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGreen Tea (Camellia Sinensis) Extract 76%Proven
Premium green tea leaves harvested from Jeju Island, rich in EGCG catechins—the most powerful antioxidant polyphenol found in tea. Provides comprehensive skin benefits from antioxidant protection to sebum regulation.
- Clinical Study: 3% green tea extract significantly reduced sebum production after 8 weeks of use (Bosnian Journal of Medical Sciences)
- Mechanism: EGCG inhibits 5α-reductase type 1 enzyme, reducing androgen-driven sebum production
- Additional Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial against P. acnes, UV protection enhancement
Centella Asiatica ExtractProven
Also known as Cica or Gotu Kola, this legendary healing herb contains madecassoside and asiaticoside compounds that strengthen the skin barrier and accelerate wound healing.
- Active Compounds: Asiaticoside, Madecassoside, Asiatic Acid promote collagen synthesis
- Clinical Evidence: Improves skin elasticity, reduces redness, and prevents scarring
- Skin Barrier: Strengthens the lipid barrier function of compromised skin
Anti-Sebum P(HD) ComplexPromising
Isntree's proprietary sebum-control complex combining Evening Primrose, Pine Leaf, Elm Root, and Kudzu Root extracts to regulate oil production naturally.
- Evening Primrose: Rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) which helps regulate sebum
- Pine Leaf Extract: Natural astringent properties help minimize pore appearance
- Elm Root & Kudzu: Traditional botanical ingredients for sebum balance
Willow Bark (Salix Alba) ExtractProven
Natural source of salicin, which converts to salicylic acid on the skin. Provides gentle exfoliation and pore-clearing benefits without irritation.
- Natural BHA: Gentle exfoliation that's less irritating than synthetic salicylic acid
- Antiseptic: Helps keep pores clear of debris and bacteria
- Anti-inflammatory: Soothes redness and irritation from breakouts
Blueberry Fruit ExtractPromising
Antioxidant-rich extract packed with anthocyanins that protect against free radical damage and environmental stressors.
- Anthocyanins: Powerful antioxidants that neutralize free radicals
- Vitamin C: Natural vitamin C content supports skin brightening
- Synergy: Works alongside green tea for enhanced antioxidant protection
25 ingredients
Water, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Propanediol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Beeswax, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Allantoin, Beta-Glucan, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Xanthan Gum, Tromethamine, Disodium EDTA, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse after toner/essence/serum. Can be used alone as a moisturizer for oily skin, or layer under cream for dry skin. Pairs perfectly with Isntree Green Tea Fresh Toner.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with clean, toned skin. Apply any essences or serums first and allow them to absorb.
Dispense
Pump 1-2 pumps of emulsion onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way with this lightweight formula.
Apply & Pat
Spread evenly across face and neck. Gently pat (don't rub) until fully absorbed for better penetration.
Follow Up (Optional)
For oily skin: use alone. For dry/combo skin: follow with a richer moisturizer. Always finish with SPF in AM.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin that gets shiny by midday
- You want lightweight hydration without heaviness or greasiness
- You struggle with enlarged pores and excess sebum production
- You need a summer moisturizer that won't melt off
- You prefer clean, fragrance-free formulas with proven ingredients
- You want a great base for makeup that stays put longer
- You're looking for an affordable K-beauty emulsion with quality ingredients
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin that needs rich, occlusive moisture
- You suffer from fungal acne (contains potential FA triggers)
- You need intense hydration for winter or dry climates
- You're allergic to beeswax or any botanical extracts listed
- You prefer heavier cream textures over lightweight lotions
- You need a standalone moisturizer for mature, dry skin
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESHoly grail territory. Lightweight formula absorbs instantly, controls shine all day, and won't clog pores. The Anti-Sebum complex is specifically designed for oily skin concerns.
Balances oily T-zone while providing adequate moisture to drier cheeks. Use alone in summer or layer with cream in winter for best results.
Pleasant everyday moisturizer with antioxidant benefits. May feel slightly light in colder months but perfect for spring/summer.
Too lightweight as a standalone moisturizer. Layer with a richer cream or use as a hydrating layer before your main moisturizer.
Fragrance-free, gentle formula with soothing Centella and Allantoin. Dermatologically tested. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and sebum control helps prevent breakouts. Contains natural BHA from willow bark. NOT suitable for fungal acne.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Immediate Comfort
Skin feels instantly hydrated without greasiness. Noticeable reduction in that midday shine. Makeup applies more smoothly and lasts longer.
85% noticed immediate comfortOil Balance Improvement
Consistent users report better oil-water balance. T-zone stays matte longer. Skin texture appears smoother and more refined.
70% saw reduced oilinessVisible Pore Refinement
Pores appear minimized. Skin looks clearer and more balanced. Some users report fewer breakouts as sebum production normalizes.
65% noticed pore improvementLong-Term Balance
Skin maintains consistent oil-moisture balance. Overall complexion appears healthier, calmer, and more resilient. Best results when paired with Green Tea Fresh Toner.
80% would repurchaseRatings by platform
950+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Ultra-lightweight texture absorbs in seconds
- Effectively controls shine without drying skin
- High concentration of green tea (76%) extract
- Fragrance-free and gentle for sensitive skin
- Clean ingredient list with EWG green ratings
- Excellent value for the quality and quantity
- Works beautifully as a makeup primer
- Perfect for hot, humid climates
- Pump packaging is hygienic and convenient
Criticized
- Not hydrating enough for dry skin types
- Not suitable for fungal acne sufferers
- May need additional moisturizer in winter
- Some users find the satin finish too dewy
- Sebum control claims don't work for everyone
- Packaging design could be more premium
- Limited availability in some regions
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESBirch sap-based formula with similar lightweight texture. More hydrating but less focus on sebum control. Also non-comedogenic and great for oily skin.
Aloe and propolis-based gel moisturizer. Even lighter texture, more soothing focused. Better for acne scars and sensitive skin. Fungal acne safe option.
More famous brand with similar green tea focus. Contains artificial fragrance which may irritate sensitive skin. Slightly richer texture.
Centella-focused serum with niacinamide. Different format (serum vs emulsion) but similar soothing benefits. Fungal acne safe alternative.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the PAO symbol on packaging for confirmation.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature (15-25°C) is ideal. No refrigeration needed.
Plastic bottle with pump dispenser. Hygienic design minimizes contamination and allows precise dispensing.
Yes, 120ml exceeds the 100ml carry-on limit but is fine for checked luggage. Consider decanting for air travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this emulsion is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain retinoids, high-strength AHAs/BHAs, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or other ingredients of concern. The willow bark extract provides only trace amounts of natural salicylic acid, which is generally considered safe in topical skincare at low concentrations. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including Cetyl Ethylhexanoate (an ester), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, and Beeswax. If you suffer from fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, consider alternatives like Benton Aloe Propolis Gel or Purito Centella Unscented Serum which are FA-safe.
Yes, this emulsion pairs well with most active ingredients. For retinol: apply the emulsion as a buffer before retinol to reduce irritation, or apply after retinol has absorbed. For vitamin C: use vitamin C first, then follow with this emulsion. For AHA/BHA: this emulsion is gentle enough to use after chemical exfoliants and can help soothe skin. Note: it already contains trace natural BHA from willow bark, so be mindful of over-exfoliation if layering with strong acids.
This emulsion is ideal for oily and combination skin types. It's specifically formulated with Anti-Sebum P(HD) complex to control excess oil production. Those with normal skin can also enjoy it, especially in warmer months. Dry skin types may find it too lightweight as a standalone moisturizer but can use it as a hydrating layer before a richer cream. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well due to the fragrance-free, gentle formula.
Immediate results include comfortable hydration and a satin-matte finish within minutes of application. Oil control benefits typically become noticeable within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. For visible pore refinement and long-term sebum balance, expect to use the product consistently for 4-8 weeks. Scientific studies show green tea extracts can significantly reduce sebum production after 8 weeks of regular application.
Apply this emulsion after cleansing, toning, and any water-based serums/essences. The typical order is: Cleanser → Toner → Essence → Serum → Emulsion → Moisturizer (optional) → Sunscreen (AM). For oily skin, this emulsion can serve as your final moisturizing step. For dry or combination skin in winter, follow with a richer cream. Always apply thinner products before thicker ones.
This emulsion has a very low comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5. The formula is lightweight and designed for oily, acne-prone skin. Most users report it does not clog pores or cause breakouts. However, individual reactions vary—some users with fungal acne may experience breakouts due to the FA-triggering ingredients (not traditional comedogenicity). Always patch test if you're acne-prone.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. The pump dispenser helps minimize contamination, extending shelf life. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If the texture, color, or smell changes significantly, discontinue use regardless of the PAO timeline.
Verdict: The Isntree Green Tea Fresh Emulsion is an exceptional lightweight moisturizer for oily and combination skin types seeking oil control without sacrificing hydration. With an impressive 76% Jeju green tea extract concentration backed by scientific evidence for sebum reduction, this emulsion delivers on its promises. The clean, fragrance-free formula with EWG green-grade ingredients makes it suitable for sensitive skin. However, those with fungal acne should look elsewhere due to potential FA triggers, and dry skin types will need additional moisture. At its price point, it offers excellent value for quality K-beauty skincare and has rightfully earned its cult-favorite status among oily skin enthusiasts.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Antimicrobial, Astringent, Emollient, Humectant, Masking, Skin Conditioning, Antioxidant, Skin Protecting, Tonic
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|






