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Green Tea Extract
At ORY®, we believe you should know what’s in your products and why. This page lists the published research behind what we say about green tea extract. Each section starts with our claim, then tells you how well the research supports it, then lists the sources so you can read them yourself.
Please note: Some studies on this page tested green tea for acne, sun damage, or hair growth, which are medical uses. We share them for transparency. ORY® green tea products are cosmetics and are not intended to treat any condition.
How to read this page Supported — backed by peer-reviewed research or official safety reviews. Supported, with caveats — the research points this way, but mostly from laboratory or animal studies, or at different strengths than ORY® uses. Limited evidence — little or no published research yet. We say so openly. |
1. General Description and Role
Claim: Green tea extract comes from the unfermented leaves of Camellia sinensis. It is rich in catechins, especially EGCG. In ORY® products, it provides antioxidant support and helps skin look calm, fresh, and less shiny. |
Verification: Supported. Green tea’s antioxidant activity is among the best studied of any plant ingredient. The CIR Expert Panel concluded that leaf-derived Camellia sinensis ingredients are safe in cosmetics when formulated to be non-sensitizing.
Citations:
- Katiyar, S. K., Ahmad, N., & Mukhtar, H. (2000). Green tea and skin. Archives of Dermatology, 136(8), 989–994. https://doi.org/10.1001/archderm.136.8.989
- What it shows: Review of green tea and skin.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2019). Safety assessment of Camellia sinensis-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 48S–70S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889914
- What it shows: CIR safety assessment of Camellia sinensis ingredients.
- Katiyar, S. K., Ahmad, N., & Mukhtar, H. (2000). Green tea and skin. Archives of Dermatology, 136(8), 989–994. https://doi.org/10.1001/archderm.136.8.989
2. Composition and Production
Claim: Green tea extract is made from steamed leaves with water or water and alcohol and is standardized to polyphenols or EGCG. It also contains some caffeine. |
Verification: Supported. Green tea chemistry is well documented.
Citations:
- Katiyar, S. K., Ahmad, N., & Mukhtar, H. (2000). Green tea and skin. Archives of Dermatology, 136(8), 989–994. https://doi.org/10.1001/archderm.136.8.989
- What it shows: Describes green tea polyphenols.
- Katiyar, S. K., Ahmad, N., & Mukhtar, H. (2000). Green tea and skin. Archives of Dermatology, 136(8), 989–994. https://doi.org/10.1001/archderm.136.8.989
3. Skin Type Suitability
Claim: Green tea extract suits all skin types, including oily and sensitive skin. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. CIR found leaf-derived ingredients safe when formulated to be non-sensitizing. CIR found the data insufficient for non-leaf parts of the plant, so ORY® uses only leaf-derived green tea.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2019). Safety assessment of Camellia sinensis-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 48S–70S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889914
- What it shows: Safety conclusion and data gaps.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2019). Safety assessment of Camellia sinensis-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 48S–70S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889914
4. Hair and Scalp Suitability
Claim: In haircare, green tea extract provides antioxidant support and helps the scalp feel fresh. |
Verification: Limited evidence. A lab study found EGCG stimulated cultured human hair follicles. Hair-growth and hair-loss claims are drug claims, and ORY® haircare products are not intended to grow hair or prevent hair loss.
Citations:
- Kwon, O. S., et al. (2007). Human hair growth enhancement in vitro by green tea epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). Phytomedicine, 14(7–8), 551–555. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17092697/
- What it shows: Lab study on hair follicles.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 310.527 — Drug products offered over-the-counter for external use as hair growers or for hair loss prevention. https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/21/310.527
- What it shows: FDA treats hair-growth and hair-loss products as drugs.
- Kwon, O. S., et al. (2007). Human hair growth enhancement in vitro by green tea epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). Phytomedicine, 14(7–8), 551–555. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17092697/
5. Benefits
Claim: Green tea extract provides antioxidant support and helps skin look calmer and less oily. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. In volunteers, green tea polyphenols applied before UV exposure reduced redness and DNA damage, but green tea is not an FDA sunscreen ingredient, and ORY® products do not claim sun protection. An 8-week study found topical EGCG improved acne; acne is a medical use, and ORY® does not make acne claims.
Citations:
- Elmets, C. A., Singh, D., Tubesing, K., Matsui, M., Katiyar, S., & Mukhtar, H. (2001). Cutaneous photoprotection from ultraviolet injury by green tea polyphenols. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 44(3), 425–432. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11209110/
- What it shows: Human study of green tea polyphenols and UV.
- Yoon, J. Y., Kwon, H. H., Min, S. U., Thiboutot, D. M., & Suh, D. H. (2013). Epigallocatechin-3-gallate improves acne in humans by modulating intracellular molecular targets and inhibiting P. acnes. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 133(2), 429–440. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23096708/
- What it shows: Acne study (a medical use).
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2019, February 26). Sunscreen drug products for over-the-counter human use (proposed rule), 84 FR 6204. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2019/02/26/2019-03019/sunscreen-drug-products-for-over-the-counter-human-use
- What it shows: FDA regulates sun-protection claims as sunscreen drugs.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR Part 333, Subpart D — Topical acne drug products for over-the-counter human use. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-333/subpart-D
- What it shows: FDA acne drug rule.
- Elmets, C. A., Singh, D., Tubesing, K., Matsui, M., Katiyar, S., & Mukhtar, H. (2001). Cutaneous photoprotection from ultraviolet injury by green tea polyphenols. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 44(3), 425–432. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11209110/
6. Use Across ORY® Product Lines
Claim: Green tea extract is used in all four ORY® product lines. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. Green tea and matcha are added for antioxidant benefit, not for color; matcha powder is not an FDA-approved color additive for cosmetics. We found no data on how much EGCG survives soapmaking.
| Product line | Typical level | How ORY® uses it |
| Skincare | 0.5–5% extract; 0.1–1% EGCG | Serums, day creams, eye creams, masks, and cleansers. |
| Haircare | 0.5–3% | Scalp serums, shampoos, and conditioners. |
| Handmade Soap | Brewed tea as the water; about 1 tsp matcha per lb of oils | Tea replaces the water in the recipe. |
| Cosmetics | 0.5–2% | Foundations, primers, setting sprays, and eye products. |
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2019). Safety assessment of Camellia sinensis-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 48S–70S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889914
- What it shows: Reported uses.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Color Additives and Cosmetics: Fact Sheet; 21 CFR 70.3(g) and Part 73, Subpart C (color additives permitted in cosmetics). https://www.fda.gov/industry/color-additives/color-additives-and-cosmetics-fact-sheet
- What it shows: FDA color additive rules.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap
- What it shows: FDA explains how soap is regulated.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2019). Safety assessment of Camellia sinensis-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 48S–70S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889914
7. Pros
Claim: A well-researched antioxidant with a CIR safety conclusion. |
Verification: Supported. Strong lab and early human evidence.
Citations:
- Katiyar, S. K., Ahmad, N., & Mukhtar, H. (2000). Green tea and skin. Archives of Dermatology, 136(8), 989–994. https://doi.org/10.1001/archderm.136.8.989
- What it shows: Review.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2019). Safety assessment of Camellia sinensis-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 48S–70S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889914
- What it shows: Safety conclusion.
- Katiyar, S. K., Ahmad, N., & Mukhtar, H. (2000). Green tea and skin. Archives of Dermatology, 136(8), 989–994. https://doi.org/10.1001/archderm.136.8.989
8. Cons
Claim: EGCG is unstable, can brown formulas, and many studies tested medical uses. |
Verification: Supported. We list these limits so you have the full picture:
- Instability. EGCG oxidizes and turns formulas brown.
- Medical-use studies. Acne, UV, and hair results cannot be claimed for cosmetics.
- Leaf only. Non-leaf parts lack safety data.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2019). Safety assessment of Camellia sinensis-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 48S–70S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889914
- What it shows: Data gaps.
- Katiyar, S. K., Ahmad, N., & Mukhtar, H. (2000). Green tea and skin. Archives of Dermatology, 136(8), 989–994. https://doi.org/10.1001/archderm.136.8.989
- What it shows: Chemistry.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2019). Safety assessment of Camellia sinensis-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 48S–70S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889914
9. Safety Notes
Claim: Patch test before use; for external use only. |
Verification: Supported. Follow these precautions:
- Patch test any new product on a small area for 24–48 hours before full use.
- Stop use if redness, burning, itching, or rash occurs, and talk to a healthcare provider.
- For external use only. Avoid the eyes. Do not use on broken or seriously damaged skin.
- If you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are buying for a child, ask a healthcare provider before use.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2019). Safety assessment of Camellia sinensis-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 48S–70S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889914
- What it shows: Safety assessment.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2019). Safety assessment of Camellia sinensis-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 48S–70S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889914
10. Product-line notes
- ORY® Skincare: For external use only. Not for deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns.
- ORY® Haircare: Designed for scalp comfort and the look and feel of hair. Not intended to treat dandruff or scalp conditions, or to promote hair growth or prevent hair loss. If you notice sudden shedding or a persistent itchy, flaking scalp, see a dermatologist.
- ORY® Handmade Soap: Handmade soap is naturally alkaline, and each bar may vary slightly in color, scent, and texture. Not intended to treat eczema or any skin condition.
- ORY® Cosmetics: Lip products are not intended to treat or protect chapped or cracked lips. Do not share applicators, and replace any product that changes color, smell, or texture.
11. References
Peer-reviewed research
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2019). Safety assessment of Camellia sinensis-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 48S–70S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889914
- Elmets, C. A., Singh, D., Tubesing, K., Matsui, M., Katiyar, S., & Mukhtar, H. (2001). Cutaneous photoprotection from ultraviolet injury by green tea polyphenols. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 44(3), 425–432. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11209110/
- Katiyar, S. K., Ahmad, N., & Mukhtar, H. (2000). Green tea and skin. Archives of Dermatology, 136(8), 989–994. https://doi.org/10.1001/archderm.136.8.989
- Kwon, O. S., et al. (2007). Human hair growth enhancement in vitro by green tea epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). Phytomedicine, 14(7–8), 551–555. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17092697/
- Yoon, J. Y., Kwon, H. H., Min, S. U., Thiboutot, D. M., & Suh, D. H. (2013). Epigallocatechin-3-gallate improves acne in humans by modulating intracellular molecular targets and inhibiting P. acnes. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 133(2), 429–440. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23096708/
Government and regulatory sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2019, February 26). Sunscreen drug products for over-the-counter human use (proposed rule), 84 FR 6204. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2019/02/26/2019-03019/sunscreen-drug-products-for-over-the-counter-human-use
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR Part 333, Subpart D — Topical acne drug products for over-the-counter human use. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-333/subpart-D
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 310.527 — Drug products offered over-the-counter for external use as hair growers or for hair loss prevention. https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/21/310.527
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Color Additives and Cosmetics: Fact Sheet; 21 CFR 70.3(g) and Part 73, Subpart C (color additives permitted in cosmetics). https://www.fda.gov/industry/color-additives/color-additives-and-cosmetics-fact-sheet
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap