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Antioxidant

Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG)

The most potent polyphenol in green tea — a powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and emerging anti-aging active backed by extensive research.

AntioxidantAnti-inflammatoryBrighteningAnti-aging
✓ Safe
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
Irritation Potential
0/5

What is it?

EGCG (epigallocatechin-3-gallate) is a catechin — a type of flavonoid — found abundantly in Camellia sinensis (green tea) leaves. It's extracted and standardized for use in topical skincare formulations, where it functions as a multi-action antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.

Antioxidant protection, photoprotection support, redness and inflammation reduction, mild brightening, anti-aging via MMP inhibition.

Key Benefits

✦
Potent Free Radical Scavenger
EGCG neutralizes reactive oxygen species generated by UV exposure, pollution, and metabolic stress — reducing oxidative damage to skin cells and collagen.
◈
Photoprotection Support
Studies show EGCG reduces UV-B-induced erythema and DNA photodamage when applied topically before sun exposure, though it doesn't replace SPF.
✧
Anti-Inflammatory
Inhibits NF-κB signaling and reduces production of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α), making it effective for redness-prone and sensitized skin.
◉
Collagen Preservation
Suppresses matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1, MMP-9) that degrade collagen and elastin, contributing to visible firming with long-term use.

Suitable for

All skin typesSensitive skinRedness-prone skinSun-damaged skinAging skin

Main Actions

✓ Antioxidant✓ Anti-inflammatory✓ Photoprotection support✓ MMP inhibitor
Stability challenge

EGCG oxidizes readily, which degrades its activity. Effective formulations use opaque packaging, stabilizing ingredients (vitamin C, vitamin E), or encapsulated EGCG. Green tea extract in a clear bottle left in sunlight is likely inactive.

CategoryAntioxidants

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) do for skin?
Antioxidant protection, photoprotection support, redness and inflammation reduction, mild brightening, anti-aging via MMP inhibition.
Who should use Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG)?
Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) is suitable for: All skin types, Sensitive skin, Redness-prone skin, Sun-damaged skin, Aging skin.
Are there any warnings about Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG)?
EGCG oxidizes readily, which degrades its activity. Effective formulations use opaque packaging, stabilizing ingredients (vitamin C, vitamin E), or encapsulated EGCG. Green tea extract in a clear bottle left in sunlight is likely inactive.

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