Caffeine

Antioxidant coffee extracts help repair damaged cells and have anti-inflammatory and protective effects. Caffeine can constrict small blood vessels and reduce dark circles under the eyes. It triggers skin rehydration, counteracting excessive water retention in the skin, which has a significant effect on under-eye bags and cellulite. Caffeine is added only in amounts and combinations that do not dehydrate the skin, but instead bind excess retained water, helping to reduce swelling caused by too much water in a particular area. This natural alkaloid is obtained from plants such as coffee, tea and guarana. Synthetic forms are also available for more stable formulations, but organic coffee extracts are popular for their purity and full spectrum of antioxidants.

Caffeine acts as a powerful antioxidant, neutralising free radicals and protecting cells from oxidative stress caused by UV radiation or pollution. It stimulates blood microcirculation by constricting small blood vessels, reducing puffiness, dark circles and redness. It supports lipolysis by inhibiting phosphodiesterase, leading to the breakdown of fat in cells, making it ideal for tackling cellulite. It has anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, reducing inflammation and supporting the regeneration of damaged cells. At concentrations of 0,5-2 % in eye serums, it effectively reduces under-eye bags, while at 3-5 % in anti-cellulite creams, it improves skin firmness. Higher doses can cause irritation, so it is combined with soothing ingredients such as panthenol.

Caffeine is ideal for tired, dull, mature skin with wrinkles, dry and dehydrated skin prone to puffiness, sensitive skin with rosacea or inflammation, as well as oily and acne-prone skin thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. It is recommended for the eye area to tackle bags and dark circles, for the body to target cellulite and stretch marks, and for the scalp to stimulate hair growth. Avoid using it on extremely dry skin without additional moisturising products.

A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology showed that topical application of caffeine at a concentration of 3 % inhibits phosphodiesterase and increases lipolysis in fat cells by 25 % over 4 weeks, significantly improving the appearance of cellulite. Further research in the International Journal of Dermatology confirmed that caffeine in a 1 % solution reduces periorbital oedema by 30 % after 14 days of daily application, supporting drainage and microcirculation.