Comparison of the Effects of Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) and Retinol on Photoaging Improvement

Extrinsic skin aging (photoaging) caused by chronic UV exposure is commonly treated with retinol; however, its use is frequently limited by tolerability issues such as irritation. This study aims to clinically compare the effectiveness of topical 5 % Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a potentially safer alternative, with 0.1 % retinol in improving photoaging parameters. This randomized, parallel-design experimental clinical trial involved 26 female subjects with Glogau II–III photoaging. The participants were assigned to the EGCG group (n = 13) or the retinol group (n = 13), applying the intervention cream nightly for 12 weeks. Clinical parameters (pore size, wrinkle, spot, and skin tone) and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) were assessed before and after the intervention. Both 5 % EGCG and 0.1% retinol produced comparable significant improvements in pore size and skin tone homogeneity (p < 0.05). No significant changes were observed in wrinkle and UV spot. A significant increase in spot scores occurred only in the retinol group. For facial TEWL measurements, only the EGCG group demonstrated a significant decrease (p < 0.05), indicating improved skin barrier function. Both treatments were well tolerated, with no reports of irritation. Topical 5 % EGCG provides clinical effectiveness comparable to 0.1 % retinol in improving pore appearance and skin tone. EGCG demonstrated superior improvement of facial skin barrier function and exhibited an excellent tolerability profile, suggesting its potential as an alternative therapy for managing photoaging.