Caffeine for Skin

Caffeine, a biologically active purine alkaloid, is widely used in cosmetics for skin and hair benefits. It inhibits phosphodiesterase to promote lipolysis, reducing fat accumulation in anti-cellulite products. Its antioxidant properties protect against UV-induced photoaging. Caffeine also enhances microcirculation and stimulates hair growth by inhibiting 5-α-reductase. In vitro and in vivo studies show caffeine suppresses oxidative stress-induced cellular senescence through A2AR/SIRT3/AMPK-mediated autophagy, reducing ROS and skin damage. These mechanisms support caffeine’s role in skin protection, rejuvenation, and potential therapeutic applications.

Publications:

• Caffeine's Mechanisms of Action and Its Cosmetic Use; A Herman, A P Herman; Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, Vol. 26(1), 8–14, 2013
• Caffeine Protects Skin from Oxidative Stress-Induced Senescence through the Activation of Autophagy; Yi-Fang Li, Shu-Hua Ouyang, Long-Fang Tu, et al.; Theranostics, Vol. 8(20), 5713–5730, 2018