Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG)

* The most power antioxidant of all the green tea catechins

* For more info, read TIA's article about Green Tea and EGCG

Functions:

Both animal and human studies have credibly demonstrated that topical green tea formulations reduce sun damage, and animal studies have shown that the Epigallocatechin Gallete (EGCG) in green tea may actually prevent skin cancer. Green tea appears to exert sun damage protection by quenching free radicals and reducing inflammation rather than by blocking UV rays. Therefore, green tea may synergistically enhance sun protection when used in addition to a sunscreen (Source).

According to SmartSkinCare.com, due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, topical green tea polyphenols are likely to slow down the development of some signs of aging. Whether green tea can actually diminish wrinkles and skin sag is far more uncertain. In a 2005 study, forty women with moderate photoaging were randomized to either a combination regimen of 10% green tea cream and 300 mg twice-daily green tea oral supplementation or a placebo regimen for 8 weeks. No significant differences in clinical grading were found between the green tea-treated and placebo groups. On the other hand, histologic grading of skin biopsies did show significant improvement in the elastic tissue content of treated specimens.

As the major polyphenolic compound in green tea responsible for its healing and protective powers, EGCG is especially potent with 25 to 100 times the antioxidant power of vitamins A, C and E. Research by the University of Georgia and the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs demonstrated that EGCG will protects the skin’s immune system, delays cellular aging and stabilizes sensitive, irritated skin. According to scientist Santosh Katiyar, it "enhances the production of interleukin-12, which has a role in DNA repair. If green tea polyphenols can repair DNA, then they can prevent skin cancer." EGCG is also being researched as a treatment for HIV.

Safety Measures/Side Effects:

There are no warnings or adverse reactions resulting from EGCG.

Recommended Products w/ Epigallocatechin Gallate:

Sircuit Skin Cool Lychee Wa Mask, PCA Skin pHaze 24 Rejuvenating Serum, Sophytos Polyphenol Skin Drops