Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Flavan-3-ols, a class of polyphenolic compounds found abundantly in foods such as cocoa, tea, and certain fruits, have been investigated for their potential benefits in skin health, including the reduction of wrinkles. The rationale for their use is based on their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation—key contributors to skin aging and wrinkle formation.

Several small-scale human studies and animal models have suggested that oral or topical supplementation with flavan-3-ols (particularly from cocoa and green tea) can improve skin hydration, elasticity, and dermal blood flow, potentially leading to a decrease in wrinkle formation or depth. For example, a randomized controlled trial published in 2016 found that daily consumption of high-flavanol cocoa improved skin texture and reduced wrinkle depth after 24 weeks compared to a low-flavanol group. Similarly, green tea polyphenols, rich in flavan-3-ols such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), have shown modest photoprotective effects in clinical trials.

However, the overall evidence remains limited, with most studies being small, short-term, or funded by industry. Systematic reviews highlight a need for larger, well-controlled trials to confirm efficacy and to establish optimal dosing and delivery methods. Thus, while there is some scientific validation for the use of flavan-3-ols in supporting skin health and potentially reducing wrinkles, the evidence is still preliminary and does not yet warrant routine use for this purpose.

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