Pre-Application of EGCG Protects Skin from UV Damage

ANKARA, Turkey—Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) may prevent ultraviolet (UV) A-induced skin damage when applied prior to exposure (J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol, 21, 5:650-6, 2007). Researchers from Ankara Numune Education and Research Hospital divided 24 12-week-old albino rats into four groups (n=6): Group I, control; Group II, UVA exposure; Group III, topical EGCG (hydrophilic ointment, 2-percent EGCG) 30 minutes after UVA exposure; Group IV, topical EGCG 30 minutes prior to UVA exposure. Group IV had a statistically significant decrease in sunburn cells and dermo-epidermal activation compared with Group II. No difference was detected between groups II and III, suggesting EGCG must be applied topically prior to UVA exposure to protect against skin damage.