Caffeine
TYPE OF INGREDIENT
Stimulant, anti-oxidant
COMMONLY FOUND IN
Creams, beverages, tablets
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CAFFEINE?
The benefits of moderate systemic caffeine ingestion are well-described, including increased energy and decreased appetite. For this article, we will focus on the topical benefits of caffeine, which include:
- Photoprotection: Caffeine has been shown to protect against UV-B radiation, which is primarily responsible for the development of skin cancer. Caffeine has been shown to prevent formation of thymidine-dimers, a UV-B signature mutation associated with skin cancers.1 Caffeine also promotes apoptosis (programmed cell death) for tumor cells, further creating an anti-cancer effect.2 Although studies are limited, caffeine may also prevent the formation of wrinkles.3
- Male Pattern Hair Loss: Caffeine has shown promise in treating androgenetic alopecia in males, and reducing stress-related hair loss.2 Caffeine reduces 5-alpha reductase activity and indirectly inhibits the cyclic AMP pathway, both of which contribute to miniaturization of hairs. One randomized trial even showed that a caffeine solution had similar efficacy to 5% minoxidil in hair growth.4
- Periorbital Hyperpigmentation: Caffeine has shown benefit in treating the often-intractable phenomenon of under-eye “dark circles,” often known as periorbital hyperpigmentation, which is common in patients with Fitzpatrick type 3 or greater skin. It is theorized that caffeine’s mild vasoconstrictive effect can lighten the skin and reduce soft tissue edema, and result in improved appearance.5,6
WHAT IS CAFFEINE?
Caffeine is a member of the purine alkaloid family of molecules, which contains other mild stimulants found in popular foods, such as theobromine (chocolate) and theophylline (some teas).7 While caffeine has numerous mechanisms of actions that are still being investigated, its primary function is a central nervous system adenosine receptor antagonist, which inhibits feelings of drowsiness.7 Caffeine is a naturally-occurring substance found in many plant species, and can be further refined into ingredients used for food or beverage consumption, or those used for topical application.
IS CAFFEINE SAFE IN ALL SKIN TYPES AND TONES?
Topical use of caffeine is generally safe for use in patients of all skin tones. Although rare, allergic reactions to caffeine and its derivatives have been reported, and patients with hypersensitivity should avoid using this product.2 The optimal dosing, delivery and formulation of caffeine are still under investigation.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Although there are no absolute contraindications for the use of topical caffeine, certain recommendations may be extrapolated based on guidelines for systemic caffeine ingestion. The FDA considers 400mg the maximum daily amount of systemic caffeine ingestion for healthy individuals, and suggests a reduced dose of 200mg for pregnant women.8 The amount of caffeine that is cutaneously absorbed from topical application is likely small but is unknown. Patients with the following medical conditions should exercise caution and consult with a physician prior to applying topical caffeine:8
- Cardiovascular disease, specifically arrhythmias
- Pregnancy
- Peptic ulcer disease or other gastroesophageal reflux
- Renal failure
- Hepatic failure
Sources:
- Koo SW, Hirakawa S, Fujii S, Kawasumi M, Nghiem P. Protection from photodamage by topical application of caffeine after ultraviolet irradiation. Br J Dermatol. 2007;156(5):957-964.
- Elias ML, Israeli AF, Madan R. Caffeine in Skincare: Its Role in Skin Cancer, Sun Protection, and Cosmetics. Indian J Dermatol. 2023;68(5):546-550.
- Choi HS, Park ED, Park Y, Han SH, Hong KB, Suh HJ. Topical application of spent coffee ground extracts protects skin from ultraviolet B-induced photoaging in hairless mice. Photochem Photobiol Sci. 2016;15(6):779-790.
- Dhurat R, Chitallia J, May TW, et al. An Open-Label Randomized Multicenter Study Assessing the Noninferiority of a Caffeine-Based Topical Liquid 0.2% versus Minoxidil 5% Solution in Male Androgenetic Alopecia. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2017;30(6):298-305.
- Amnuaikit T, Maneenuan D, Boonme P. Evaluation of Caffeine Gels on Physicochemical Characteristics and In Vivo Efficacy in Reducing Puffy Eyes. J App Pharm Sci. 2011;01(02):56-59.
- Ahmadraji F, Shatalebi MA. Evaluation of the clinical efficacy and safety of an eye counter pad containing caffeine and vitamin K in emulsified Emu oil base. Adv Biomed Res. 2015;4:10.
- PubChem. Caffeine. Accessed January 29, 2024. https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/2519
- Evans J, Richards JR, Battisti AS. Caffeine. In: StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing; 2024. Accessed January 29, 2024. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519490/
La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Eye Cream for Dark Circles
