Beyond being a powerful stimulant and an effective means of combating fatigue, caffeine is an ingredient that possesses numerous benefits for your skin.
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What are the benefits of caffeine for the skin?
Summary
- Caffeine, an active ingredient used to combat cellulite
- Caffeine effective against photoaging
- Caffeine, a draining and stimulating agent for the eye contour
- Caffeine for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties
- Sources
Published January 31, 2024,
by
Stéphanie, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences
—
5 min read
Caffeine, an active ingredient used to combat cellulite.
A key ingredient in most toning products, caffeine has a lipolytic action , which, among other things, makes it a true "fat burner". Moreover, due to its small size, it can penetrate deeper into the dermis to target subcutaneous fat. Additionally, it has a draining action that facilitates the elimination of fats and waste that accumulate in the tissues, but also prevents fats from accumulating in the cells by inhibiting their production (lipogenesis), while increasing blood circulation.
Thus, when applied in gel form, it effectively aids in the breakdown of fat cells, provided that the treatment contains at least 2 to 5% caffeine. However, caution is advised, as caffeine is not a miracle product. Indeed, it does not miraculously eliminate cellulite, but it can help to reduce its appearance. To do this, it is necessary to perform a kneading massage to enhance the lipolytic effect of caffeine and break down fats.
Caffeine effective against photoaging.
Whether used in cream or serum form, caffeine helps to minimise the damage caused to the skin by UV rays and prevent the onset of cancers due to sun exposure. The mechanism is straightforward: thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it accelerates the death process of cells whose DNA has been damaged by UV rays. Their destruction thus reduces the risk of developing skin cancer. It also helps to combat free radicals, thereby reducing their harmful effects on the skin such as dull complexion, pigmentation spots, skin sagging or even wrinkles.
Caffeine, a draining and stimulating agent for the eye contour.
If caffeine is one of the main active ingredients used in eye contour care, it is not by pure chance. Indeed, it is an excellent vascular tonic, which allows it to effectively combat puffiness and dark circles. By aiding the activation of microcirculation of blood, it decongests and reduces swelling caused by water retention. To be more effective, it is important to apply it by tapping. Whether you consume an excessive amount of salt, sleep little, or do not hydrate enough... all these elements can be responsible for dark circles and puffiness that dull the gaze.
Caffeine for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Ideal for soothing redness, caffeine is also used topically to calm itching caused by conditions such as eczema or atopic dermatitis. It also helps to limit the feelings of tightness sometimes induced by skin dehydration or the use of an overly astringent routine. In all cases, this ingredient battles against feelings of discomfort that can sometimes be experienced by all skin types.
Sources
MOY L. S. & al. Modification of subcutaneous adipose tissue by a methylxanthine formulation: a double-blind controlled study. Dermatologic Surgery (1999).
BOUSKELA E. & al. Evaluation of the effects of caffeine in the microcirculation and edema on thighs and buttocks using the orthogonal polarization spectral imaging and clinical parameters. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2007).
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