Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract is derived from the leaves of the tea plant (Camellia sinensis, Theaceae) and is also commonly known as green tea extract. Its primary active components are polyphenols, specifically catechins, with EGCG (EpiGalloCatechin Gallate) being the most abundant and active. Quality varies significantly between extracts depending on growing conditions and processing; high-quality extracts contain 50–90% catechins and are typically brownish with a characteristic odor. CAS number: 84650-60-2.
Green tea extract is a well-researched antioxidant that helps protect skin from free radical damage and UV-induced irritation, redness, and sunburn cells. Its catechins exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for sensitive, rosacea-prone, and acne-prone skin, and it also demonstrates antimicrobial activity with studies showing 2% green tea lotion effective for mild-to-moderate acne. Additionally, it has anticarcinogenic properties through inhibition of UV-induced DNA damage and activation of DNA repair enzymes, particularly relevant for non-melanoma skin cancer prevention.
Efficacy is highly dependent on the polyphenol/catechin content of the specific extract used; average commercial extracts may contain as little as 10% catechins, significantly limiting their effectiveness compared to high-quality extracts (50–90% catechins).
