The present invention relates to derivatized polyphenols, wherein all of the reactive phenolic hydroxyl functional groups are completely esterified or etherified, as demonstrated by the absence of free hydroxyl groups in an infrared absorption spectrum of the derivatized product. Due to their increased stability, the derivatized polyphenols can be used in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations more effectively, targeting and releasing active anti-oxidant polyphenols via natural biological degradative mechanisms in situ in the targeted areas.
