Alkaloid from coffee beans and tea leaves. Stimulates microcirculation, constricts vessels and delivers antioxidant protection.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Topically: confirmed reduction of eye puffiness, stimulation of hair growth (Alpecin RCTs), antioxidant and photoprotective action. Long-term effect on pigmentation is not shown, but that is not the main application.
Caffeine (1,3,7-trimethylxanthine) is a natural alkaloid from coffee beans, tea leaves, cocoa beans, and guarana. In cosmetics it is one of the most frequent actives in eye products, anti-cellulite formulas, and body care. Mechanism. On skin it constricts superficial vessels via phosphodiesterase inhibition and β-adrenoceptor activation. Reduces local oedema and the visibility of under-eye 'bags'. Antioxidant activity: suppresses free-radical reactions, especially UV-induced. Phosphodiesterase inhibition raises cAMP in adipocytes, stimulating lipolysis – the basis for anti-cellulite use. Where applied. Eye gels and creams (1–5%), anti-cellulite creams and serums (3–7%), sunscreens and anti-aging products (0.5–2%), 'anti hair loss' shampoos. In Spain – The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG, Mesoestetic Couperend, Caudalie Premier Cru, Somatoline anti-cellulite products. Evidence base. For under-eye puffiness: Burnett 2019 (systematic review) showed a moderate effect on bag visibility and vascular-type dark circles over 4–8 weeks. Anti-cellulite effect – Hexsel 2011, Lupi 2007 (n=78) showed moderate thigh circumference and cellulite reduction over 12 weeks at 7%. For hair loss – Bansal 2012 (in vitro) showed follicle stimulation; clinical human data are weak. UV antioxidant protection – Lu 2007 (mouse models) and indirect human data. Safety. CIR confirmed cosmetic safety in 2014. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, non-irritating. Topical systemic absorption is low (1–2% of the dose), but use on large areas under occlusion can become significant – worth noting in cardiology patients with caffeine restriction. Pregnancy and lactation – safe topically. Systemic absorption at cosmetic concentrations is minimal. Orally in pregnancy – 200 mg/day cap per AEMPS and WHO 2024. Realistic assessment. A good active for under-eye puffiness and a temporary vasoconstrictive effect. The anti-cellulite effect is moderate – does not replace physical activity and weight control. For hair growth – mostly marketing; minoxidil and finasteride have stronger evidence.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Caffeine is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Caffeine suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
Alkaloid from coffee beans and tea leaves.
The INCI name is Caffeine. It may also appear as: Кофеин.
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