Waking up to a cup of coffee has long been on everyone’s agenda for the stimulating aroma and the benefits caffeine entails. But the benefit of caffeine goes way beyond the cup. Caffeine-containing creams, scrubs, and serums are now becoming a needed addition to our skincare regime. However, this popularity is not just a fad but comes with research-backed evidence of its numerous benefits.
According to a 2019 research by dermatologist Dr Ahu Yorulmaz, caffeine has antioxidant properties, which makes it useful as a free radical scavenger. Thus, it has the capability to slow down the ageing process.
Benefits of caffeine-based skincare products
Dr Mikki Singh, consultant dermatologist at Bodycraft Clinics, Bengaluru, says, “Caffeine has an anti-inflammatory effect and helps to soothe the skin.” It also helps bring down the redness of the skin in those who have rosacea, a condition that causes redness and often small, red, pus-filled bumps on the face.
“Caffeine is gaining popularity in skincare not just because of its antioxidant properties but also because of its anti-cellulite properties. Also, as a vasoconstrictor, it makes the skin look brighter and smoother and is great at reducing under-eye pigmentation and puffiness to some extent,” says Dr Neha Dubey, consultant medical and cosmetic dermatologist, medical director at Meraki Skin Clinic, Gurugram.
Other benefits include:
- Coffee contains chlorogenic acids (CGAs), which are anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial. They work against acne
- A caffeinated product reduces the appearance of dark circles and under-eye bags that come with exhaustion
- Caffeine is known to stimulate enzymes that break down fats, so it can dehydrate fat cells. That results in a smoother and firmer appearance, at least temporarily
- Regular coffee consumption may aid in preventing infections from hazardous germs in cases of wounds or recurrent skin conditions
Downside
According to Dr Dubey, there is no major downside to using caffeine in a certain percentage when it comes to skincare. Its benefits are short-term, thus, skin care products with caffeine as one of the key molecules will help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, undereye puffiness and discoloration, “but they won’t provide a permanent cure”. People with extremely dry skin or atopic dermatitis should refrain from using caffeine as it can make their skin more dehydrated, she says.
Best time to use caffeinated skin care products
“It is best to use it during mornings so that you experience the benefits during the day as the effect might wear off by the end of the day,” adds Dubey.
