CAS number 84650-60-2
INCI name CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT
Camellia sinensis leaf extract is derived from the leaves of the evergreen Camellia sinensis shrub. Various types of extracts, including white tea, yellow tea, green tea, oolong, and dark tea, are obtained from its leaves and leaf buds. Known for its antimicrobial, astringent, and emollient properties, green Tea extract is a valuable ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products.
Purpose
Camellia sinensis leaf extract is a versatile ingredient in skincare, offering antimicrobial protection, antioxidant benefits, and astringent properties to refine pores. Its emollient and humectant qualities keep the skin hydrated and soft, while its skin-conditioning effects enhance overall texture. Additionally, its UV-absorbing capability helps protect against sun damage, making it a valuable addition to personal care products.
Origin
Camellia sinensis leaf extract is derived by pressing or distilling oils from tea leaves. Depending on the plant’s growth stage, the harvested leaves produce various tea extracts such as white, green, and black tea.
| Feature | Description |
| Name | Green Tea Extract |
| Type | Botanical Extract |
| Source | Derived from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant |
| PH | 4.0 to 5.0 |
| Solubility | Water-soluble |
| Color | Light brown to greenish-brown |
| Odor | Mild, slightly herbal or grassy scent |
| Physical state | Fine powder or liquid extract |
| Concentration | 0.5% to 5% |
| Boiling point | around 100°C |
Rich in EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate)
Green tea extract is exceptionally rich in EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate), one of the most potent polyphenols known for its ability to combat oxidative stress. This antioxidant fights free radicals, which are unstable molecules that damage skin cells and accelerate aging. By neutralizing these harmful molecules, EGCG helps maintain skin health, reduces signs of premature aging, and even enhances wound healing. Its ability to reduce oxidative stress also makes it useful in protecting the skin from environmental aggressors such as pollution and toxins.
Natural UV Protection
Although not a replacement for sunscreen, this offers mild photoprotective benefits due to its high concentration of polyphenols. Studies suggest that EGCG and other catechins can help prevent DNA damage caused by UV exposure, reducing the likelihood of sunburn, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging. It works by minimizing inflammation and repairing skin damage induced by UV rays. Additionally, when combined with traditional sunscreen ingredients, this enhances overall sun protection and boosts the skin’s defense against photoaging.
Anti-Aging & Collagen-Boosting
Green tea extract plays a crucial role in maintaining youthful skin by stimulating collagen production and preventing its breakdown. Collagen is a key structural protein responsible for skin firmness and elasticity, but as we age, its production naturally declines. The polyphenols in green tea help inhibit enzymes that degrade collagen and elastin, thereby preserving the skin’s firmness. Regular use of this in skincare can lead to firmer, plumper skin with reduced fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging.
Sebum Regulation
Excess sebum production can lead to oily skin, clogged pores, and acne breakouts. Green tea extract helps regulate sebum levels by controlling the activity of sebaceous glands. This is particularly beneficial for people with oily or acne-prone skin, as it reduces excessive shine and prevents pore congestion. Unlike harsh oil-control agents, this balances the skin’s natural oils without over-drying, ensuring a healthy and hydrated complexion.
Anti-Inflammatory & Soothing
Green tea extract is widely known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent ingredient for calming irritated or sensitive skin. The polyphenols, especially EGCG, help reduce redness, swelling, and irritation caused by inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis. It works by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, molecules responsible for triggering skin inflammation. This makes this an ideal ingredient for soothing post-sun exposure redness and even post-acne irritation.
Antimicrobial Properties
Green tea extract has natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which help in combating acne-causing bacteria such as Propionibacterium acnes. These properties make it an effective natural remedy for acne-prone skin by reducing bacterial overgrowth, preventing breakouts, and promoting a clearer complexion. Additionally, its antimicrobial benefits extend to scalp health, helping to control dandruff and other microbial imbalances that contribute to scalp irritation.
Caffeine Content
The natural caffeine content in this offers multiple benefits for skin and hair. When applied topically, caffeine helps improve blood circulation, reducing puffiness, dark circles, and fluid retention under the eyes. It also has a temporary tightening effect on the skin, making it look firmer and more refreshed. Additionally, caffeine stimulates the scalp, improving hair follicle health and encouraging stronger hair growth by boosting oxygen and nutrient delivery to hair roots.
Detoxifying Effect
Green tea extract acts as a detoxifier by helping the skin eliminate toxins, pollutants, and impurities that accumulate due to daily exposure to environmental stressors. By flushing out toxins, it reduces clogged pores, blackheads, and breakouts, leaving the skin looking fresh and revitalized. This detoxifying effect makes it particularly beneficial for urban dwellers exposed to high levels of pollution, as it helps combat dullness and tired-looking skin.
Improves Hair Health
Green tea extract is not only beneficial for the skin but also plays a vital role in maintaining healthy hair. Its rich antioxidant profile helps protect hair follicles from oxidative damage, which can lead to hair thinning and premature hair loss. It also contains panthenol, a form of vitamin B5 that strengthens hair strands, reduces split ends, and enhances shine. The antimicrobial properties of green tea extract further help combat dandruff and scalp irritation, making it an effective ingredient in hair care formulations.
Natural Astringent
Green tea extract has mild astringent properties, which help tighten pores and refine skin texture without causing excessive dryness. This makes it an excellent ingredient for those with enlarged pores or combination skin, as it gently tones the skin while maintaining hydration. Unlike synthetic astringents that can strip the skin of essential moisture, green tea extract provides a balanced approach by improving skin texture while preserving its natural barrier function.
Applications of Green Tea Extract
Skincare Products
Green tea extract is widely used in serums, creams, moisturizers, and face masks due to its antioxidant, anti-aging, and soothing properties. It helps protect the skin from environmental damage, reduces inflammation, and improves overall skin health. It is particularly beneficial for sensitive, acne-prone, and mature skin.
Anti-Acne Treatments
Due to its antimicrobial and sebum-regulating properties, green tea extract is found in cleansers, toners, and spot treatments designed for acne-prone skin. It helps reduce breakouts by controlling oil production and preventing bacterial growth.
Sunscreen & After-Sun Care
Green tea extract is incorporated into sunscreens and after-sun products to enhance protection against UV damage. Its anti-inflammatory effects help soothe sunburned skin, while its antioxidants work to repair damage caused by sun exposure.
Hair Care Products
Shampoos, conditioners, and scalp treatments often include green tea extract for its ability to strengthen hair follicles, reduce dandruff, and improve scalp health. Its caffeine content also stimulates blood circulation to the scalp, promoting healthier hair growth
Body Lotions & Scrubs
Green tea extract is used in body lotions, scrubs, and body washes to provide antioxidant protection and hydration. Its detoxifying properties help in reducing body acne and keeping the skin refreshed.
Oral Care Products
Mouthwashes and toothpastes may include green tea extract for its antibacterial properties, helping to reduce bad breath, plaque buildup, and gum inflammation.
Dietary Supplements & Functional Beverages
Green tea extract is commonly used in supplements, energy drinks, and detox teas for its metabolism-boosting and weight management benefits. Its catechins help improve fat oxidation, making it a popular ingredient in weight loss products.
