What is "CAFFEINE" and what does it do?

Role: ASSETS

Family: Assets

Comedogenic index: 0

Caffeine is a molecule with multiple actions. It's a small, hydrophilic molecule with good skin penetration capacities. Once in the skin, it has fine antioxidant properties, meaning it reduces the formation of harmful free radicals and may even be useful in preventing UV-induced skin cancers.

A well-known fact about caffeine is that it improves the microcirculation of blood vessels. 
While conventional wisdom and anecdotal evidence assert that this property is useful for dark circles and puffy eyes, we should mention that the double-blind research we found on a 3 % caffeine gel concluded that "the overall effectiveness of the selected caffeine gel in reducing puffy eyes was not significantly different from that of its gel base."

In the final analysis, although some of its properties are promoted rather than proven, caffeine remains a biologically active and versatile ingredient, adding value to many cosmetic products. Its presence in ingredient lists is therefore an asset, provided it is used in appropriate concentrations.

Find out more about "Inci" cosmetic ingredients