Green tea in skin care: EGCG and what it can do
The catechins behind green tea's reputation, what reviews say about topical EGCG for oily skin and sun-stressed skin, and its stability problem.
1 min read · Updated 2026-11-14
From cup to cream
India grows green tea in Darjeeling, Assam and the Nilgiris. Unlike black tea, green tea leaves are not oxidised, so they keep a high level of catechins, the polyphenols behind its antioxidant reputation.
Oily and blemish-prone skin
A 2017 systematic review of eight studies found some evidence that topical tea polyphenols reduce sebum secretion and help mild acne. The studies were small, but results were consistent enough to make green tea a sensible ingredient for oily skin.
Sun-stressed skin
A 2024 review summarises laboratory and some human data suggesting EGCG helps skin resist UV-induced damage, supports moisture and elasticity, and calms inflammation. It also notes that EGCG penetrates skin poorly and breaks down in light.
The stability problem
A 2020 dermatology review found EGCG is unstable, more so at higher temperatures and pH, which can limit how well it works in a product. Store green tea skin care away from heat and light.
In Kart Naturals
Green tea is part of the Pamper & Ethereal Evening Lotion.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Always use sunscreen outdoors.
Questions
What is EGCG?
Epigallocatechin gallate, the most abundant catechin in green tea, making up about half its polyphenols.
Is green tea a sunscreen?
No. It may help skin cope with UV stress, but it does not replace sunscreen.
Why does green tea skin care sometimes turn brown?
EGCG oxidises easily with light, heat and higher pH, which can darken products and reduce activity.
Sources
- Saric S, Notay M, Sivamani RK. Green Tea and Other Tea Polyphenols: Effects on Sebum Production and Acne Vulgaris. Antioxidants 2017;6(1):2
- Frasheri L et al. Great green tea ingredient? A narrative literature review on epigallocatechin gallate and its biophysical properties for topical use in dermatology. Phytother Res 2020;34(9):2170-2179
- Beneficial Effects of Epigallocatechin Gallate in Preventing Skin Photoaging: A Review. Molecules 2024;29(22):5226
This guide is general information about traditional and natural care. It is not medical advice. For a skin, scalp or health condition, speak to a dermatologist or qualified practitioner.
