Abstract

Several studies with Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze (syn. Thea sinensis L.) suggest that topical application may be potentially effective for acne, however this effectiveness has not always been demonstrated. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the efficacy of C. sinensis leaves extract for the treatment of acne. A double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial was carried out including 60 patients between 18 and 25 years old diagnosed with grade O, I and II acne in whom the clinical evaluation, measurement of sebaceous secretion and hydration were performed, in addition to photographic records. The intervention time was 3 weeks and the follow-up was 3 additional weeks. Patients were selected according to inclusion criteria and divided into two groups by simple randomization. The intervention group received the glycolic extract of C. sinensis as treatment and the control group received a preparation with the same organoleptic characteristics. Both groups used the preparation topically for three weeks. The evaluations and measurements of the study variables were carried out weekly. The application of glycolic extract of C. sinensis showed an adequate control of the sebaceous secretion (P = 0.001) without producing dry skin. The hydration levels were higher in the intervention group in relation to the control group (P = 0.18). It was also observed that the color of the skin is uniform. No side effects were observed. This study demonstrates that the glycolic extract of C. sinensis is effective in the treatment of acne O, I and II.

Keywords: Camellia sinensis, Acne, Sebaceous secretion, Seborrhea