Chances are you rely on your morning shot (or three) of caffeine to help wake you up. Those first few sips of coffee help clear your head and boost your energy. Given the ubiquitous love for caffeine-rich beverages worldwide, you’re probably no stranger to its effects. But caffeine may also offer benefits when applied to your skin, which is why many skincare lovers use products that feature this popular ingredient. 

Caffeine is an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties, but the way it performs as a skincare ingredient is different from the results you get from drinking it. Caffeine acts as a brain-targeting stimulant when taken orally. It absorbs into the bloodstream quickly, which is why you feel immediate energy when you drink it. When consumed, caffeine blocks brain chemicals that make you feel sleepy while giving you an adrenaline surge. 

When applied to your skin, caffeine demonstrates additional properties. While research concerning the effects of caffeine on the skin continues, studies show that it penetrates quickly and offers a range of potential positive results. 

Caffeine in skin products works in unique ways. Whether you want to brighten dull skin, soothe puffy eyes, or smooth out wrinkles, using topical caffeine can help. Let’s take a look at why caffeine-containing products are the next great addition to your skincare routine.

Caffeine Can Deflate Under-Eye Puffiness

Caffeine is a vasoconstrictor, which means that it constricts blood vessels and can lessen the appearance of swelling. While it’s no substitute for adequate sleep for a rested look (and better health), our caffeine-infused Dark Circle Defense eye serum for men can help decrease puffiness with regular use, so make sure to use this every night for best results.

Caffeine May Help Calm Red, Blotchy Skin 

Since caffeine reduces blood flow by shrinking blood vessels, applying it topically may also help reduce the appearance of red, irritated, or blotchy-looking skin. Caffeine’s anti-inflammatory properties can also brighten and even out your overall skin tone when used as part of your regular skincare regimen. 

Caffeine Contains Age-Defying Antioxidants

Given caffeine’s powerful antioxidant properties, applying it topically may help keep skin smooth while slowing down the onset of fine lines and wrinkles. While it won’t necessarily erase the lines you already have, caffeine in skincare can give your skin a tighter, smoother look and help prevent new wrinkles from forming. Moreover, antioxidant-rich skincare is an asset to your routine because antioxidants fight free radicals and help repair UV sun damage. 

When combined with other potent skincare ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid found in our Anti-Fatigue Eye Patch, caffeine can help improve the appearance of tired, puffy, or irritated skin over time. As with all high-performance skincare, you’ll achieve the best results with consistent use, so make sure to keep up with a regular morning and evening routine to get the most from your products.