What it is
Caffeine is an organic compound found in coffee, tea, chocolate and in lots of other plants.
What it does
Caffeine has antioxidant properties which offer protection from free radical damage, one of the main causes of aging. It isn’t however, the best antioxidant ingredient available today.
In addition, it works as a skin conditioning agent, which means that it makes skin supple, reduces flaking and generally improves the appearance of skin that is dry and damaged.
Caffeine is also often included in cosmetics products claiming it can treat puffy eyes or cellulite, but sadly there is no proof it works in those ways. What it does instead is make skin look smoother so your cellulite won’t be so visible (but still there!) but the effects are only temporary.
Side effects
Caffeine can dry skin, so make sure you keep it hydrated when using products with this ingredient.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
That’s interesting. It conditions skin but can also be drying? I never knew either of those things, I wonder how that works? I know it actually makes me thirsty if I drink too much coffee…
Simone´s last [type] ..A softer look using Archetype again
Simone, I guess it depends on your skin type and the concentration of caffeine in the product. A small amount can improve the way skin looks but if you use too much, it can dry it out.