Whether you can’t start your morning without a cup of coffee or even the thought of anything caffeinated gives you the jitters, no one can deny the effects that caffeine has on the body. But what about skincare products? We’ve all seen numerous face serums, eye creams, and even hair products that tout this popular ingredient. But what does it really do? And more importantly, does it actually work? Let’s chat about caffeine in skincare and the effect it can have on our skin.
How does drinking caffeine affect the skin?
There are many reported benefits of drinking caffeine, but it depends on how much you drink. For example, coffee contains ferulic acid, an antioxidant that is shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body and skin. Coffee is also high in vitamin B3 (niacin), which helps our body systems function properly. This includes making sure our skin cells are better protected from UV damage. In fact, a January 2015 study published in the JNCI: Journal of the National Cancer Institute revealed that those who drink four cups of coffee or more per day had a 20-percent lower risk for developing malignant melanoma than those who drank less coffee.
In short, just don’t drink too much. Caffeine, especially coffee, in moderation is safe and actually beneficial to the skin because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Just be mindful of adding too much sugar or dairy to your cup!
How do caffeinated skincare products work?
We’ve all heard about the amazing properties of that caffeinated eye cream, but how does it work? It turns out that even when applied topically, caffeine still has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Just like that cup of coffee in the morning, you’ll want to keep in mind that the effects are pretty short-lived.
Does caffeine actually help reduce cellulite?
Well, not exactly. You may have seen coffee scrubs touting cellulite-smoothing abilities, but it’s only temporary. As of right now, there’s no solid evidence that it can rid your body of cellulite. However, caffeine does temporarily constrict blood vessels to give the skin a firmer appearance. And we all know that regular exfoliation is a good thing.
Why is caffeine so popular in eye creams?
If you’ve ever woken up with puffy eyes, reach for a caffeinated eye cream. Caffeine works to constrict blood vessels and provide other anti-inflammatory benefits. These creams are also ideal for puffy morning eyes, so you may want to apply your cream while you’re waiting on your coffee to brew.
Our Favorite Caffeinated Skincare Products
1. Origins GinZing Oil Free Energy-Boosting Moisturizer, $19
Delivers 72-hours of oil-free hydration as it revs up skin’s natural radiance for a wide-awake look. Energy-boosting caffeine from Coffee & Ginseng helps refresh & revitalize, while Hydra-Hug Technology helps lock in & maintain lasting, healthy moisture.
2. La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Eyes, $42.99
Dark under-eye circles are a tell-tale sign of sleepless nights or genetics at work, but either way, you want them gone. Enter La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Eyes, a color-correcting eye cream that masks unwanted blue and brown under-eye bags.
3. The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG, $6.70
This lightweight formula contains an extremely high five percent concentration of caffeine, supplemented with highly-purified epigallocatechin gallatyl glucoside (EGCG) from green tea leaves. Studies have shown that topical use of caffeine and EGCG can help reduce the look of puffiness and dark circles around the eye contour.
4. Sunday Riley Auto Correct Brightening and Depuffing Eye Contour Cream, $65
AutoCorrect Brightening and Depuffing Eye Contour Cream gives a brighter, lifted look while reducing the appearance of dark circles and puffiness. Caffeine and Brazilian ginseng root extract rapidly reduce the appearance of puffiness and dark circles, energizing tired-looking eyes.
5. BEIGIC Regenerating Oil, $39.04
Regenerating oil intensely hydrates and generously nourishes the skin with green coffee bean oil (organic and fair trade), coconut oil, and argan oil. Tightens and brightens the skin.
6. Milk Makeup Cooling Water, $26
This cooling gel stick is infused with caffeine to visibly reduce puffiness and seawater to soothe and hydrate skin. It can be used under the eyes or all over your face and body for a quick refresh, and it can be stored in the fridge for extra chill.
7. Frank Body Everyday Face Moisturiser, $21.95
Frank Body’s Caffeinated Face Moisturiser is light and creamy for even the fussiest of faces.
While we’re talking popular skincare ingredients, let’s chat about the one skincare ingredient you may be overlooking!
