Antioxidant Effects of Catechins (EGCG), Andrographolide, and Curcuminoids Compounds for Skin Protection, Cosmetics, and Dermatological Uses: An Update

Abstract

Here we have chosen to highlight the main natural molecules extracted from Camellia sinensis, Andrographis paniculata, and Curcuma longa that may possess antioxidant activities of interest for skin protection. The molecules involved in the antioxidant process are, respectively, catechins derivatives, in particular, EGCG, andrographolide, and its derivatives, as well as various curcuminoids. These plants are generally used as beverages for Camellia sinensis (tea tree), as dietary supplements, or as spices. The molecules they contain are known for their diverse therapeutic activities, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-cancer, antidiabetic, and dermatological treatment. Their common antioxidant activities and therapeutic applications are widely documented, but their use in cosmetics is more recent. We will see that the use of pharmacomodulated derivatives, the addition of co-antioxidants, and the use of various formulations enable better skin penetration and greater ingredient stability. In this review, we will endeavor to compile the cosmetic uses of these natural molecules of interest and the various structural modulations reported with the aim of improving their bioavailability as well as establishing their different mechanisms of action.

A Recent Update on the Potential Use of Catechins in Cosmeceuticals

“…The antibacterial mechanism of catechin involves disrupting the cell membrane and inhibiting intracellular enzymes (Figure 8). The mechanism of catechin to counter acne inflammation is through the inhibition of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-8 and TNF-α [61].…”

Benefits of Green Tea Polyphenols for Kidney Health: A Literature Review

“…The antioxidant capacity of green tea leaves can vary significantly, depending on various factors such as variety and geographical origin [23]. Green tea, which undergoes minimal fermentation, contains the highest concentration of catechins, with EGCG reported to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticarcinogenic effects [24]. The chemical structure depicted in Figure 1 consists of a condensed polyphenol ring with a six-membered oxygen-containing heterocyclic ring carrying the polyphenol ring at position 2.…”

Structural Modification of Epigallocatechin-3-gallate to (2R,3R)-5,7-dimethoxy-2-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)chroman-3-yl l-valinate in Four Steps

“…Unlike green tea, black tea involves a fermentation process in its preparation, during which these phenolic compounds are oxidized to form new compounds, such as theobromine and theaflavin, thereby diminishing the EGCG content in black tea. EGCG exhibits a broad spectrum of biological activities, including hypoglycemic [1], antibacterial [2], antiviral [3], antioxidant [4], anti-atherosclerotic [5], antitumor [6] and anti-inflammatory [7] effects. Therefore, tea and its extract have been widely commercialized, commonly in the pharmaceutical, healthcare, and food industries [8][9][10].…”