Including coffee in your skincare routine can yield great results: Experts

From face masks, scrubs, under-eye patches and face serums to body lotions, coffee-infused products have become dominant in the world of skincare. Beauty influencers, celebrities and dermatologists alike swear by coffee for healthy skin. Yet, some have their doubts regarding the same.

Mid-day Online sat down with skincare pundits to delve into the benefits of coffee for skin and explore the appropriate ways to incorporate it into one's basic skincare routine.

Dr Rinky Kapoor, consultant dermatologist, cosmetic dermatologist and dermato-surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics, Mumbai says, "Coffee, which has long been a beloved beverage for its energy-boosting properties, can also work wonders for your skin."

Speaking on the possible reasons behind coffee's recent popularity in skincare, Kapoor says, "Coffee-infused skincare products have great anti-ageing properties. Coffee grounds are rich in antioxidants, which help to combat free radicals and reduce signs of ageing such as wrinkles and fine lines."

Adding to this, Dr Palak Deshmukh, consultant dermatologist, trichologist and venereologist, Jehangir Hospital, Pune says, "Coffee also contains anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin and reduce redness and swelling. Additionally, caffeine found in coffee can constrict blood vessels, reducing puffiness and redness."

Coffee offers a range of unknown benefits that further promote healthy skin. Coffee ground's coarse texture is exceptionally beneficial as it acts as a natural exfoliant to remove dead skin cells, leaving the skin smoother and brighter. This exfoliation process also stimulates collagen production, leading to firmer and more supple skin over time. When used in scrubs or masks, coffee can also stimulate blood flow, promoting healthier, more radiant skin. Further, some coffee-infused products can temporarily tighten and smooth the skin's appearance, reducing the appearance of cellulite.

Ways to incorporate coffee into your skincare routine
If you are planning to include coffee in your skincare regime, both Kapoor and Deshmukh suggest investing in a few products.

Coffee scrubs: These are excellent for the body. They exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and leaving it smoother and brighter.

Coffee eye creams: Specifically designed for the delicate skin around the eyes, these creams can reduce puffiness and dark circles due to caffeine's vasoconstrictive properties, meaning it constricts blood vessels and helps reduce swelling around the eyes.

Coffee masks: These are versatile as they benefit various parts of the face and body. They can enhance blood circulation, improve complexion and reduce redness and irritation.

Coffee-infused body lotions: These provide hydration and a subtle coffee scent for the entire body ensuring your skin stays fresh for a long time.

Coffee-infused face serums: These can be used to address specific facial concerns, such as anti-ageing or brightening.

Each type of product has its unique advantages, and the choice depends on your skincare goals and preferences.

To get you started, Kapoor lists down five products that you can use

1. mCaffeine

2. WOW Skin Science

3. Dot & Key

4. Mamaearth

5. Biotique

Natural coffee-infused packs to make at home
If you wish to give coffee a try first before spending huge amounts on skincare products, you can try out these natural packs as recommended by both Kapoor and Deshmukh. By combining coffee grounds with a few simple ingredients, you can create these luxurious face masks that will rejuvenate and revive your complexion.

1.Coffee honey yoghurt mask:
Ingredients:
Ground coffee - 1 tbsp
Honey or yoghurt - 1 tbsp
Coconut oil - 1 tsp

(Quantity is subject to one's own preference)

Method:
To make your own coffee-infused face mask, start by mixing one tablespoon of ground coffee with one tablespoon of honey or yoghurt. Honey is known for its soothing properties and helps to moisturise the skin, while yoghurt contains lactic acid that exfoliates dead skin cells. You can also add a teaspoon of coconut oil to make the mask more hydrating. Apply the mixture onto clean, dry skin and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with warm water. The result is a glowing complexion that feels soft and smooth to the touch.

2. Coffee and lemon mask:
Ingredients:
Ground coffee - 1 tbsp
Lemon juice - 1 tbsp

(Quantity is subject to one's own preference)

Method:
Mix the ingredients well and apply the mixture lightly on your face. Leave it on for 10 minutes and rinse it off with water. This one is a brightening and energising coffee mask that can give your tired-looking complexion a much-needed lift. The addition of lemon juice can help fade dark spots and even out skin tone. Caffeine in the coffee stimulates blood flow to your face when applied topically, giving you a healthy glow from within.

3. Coffee and moisturiser mask:
There are no specific ingredients for this one and it is easy to make and apply. Simply mix a small amount of coffee grounds with your favourite cleanser or moisturiser and gently massage it onto your face in circular motions. Rinse off thoroughly and enjoy the rejuvenating effects of this DIY exfoliant.

4. Simple coffee:
Another interesting way to include coffee in your skincare regime is by using it to reduce under-eye puffiness. To experience this benefit, brew a strong cup of black coffee (without sugar or milk) and allow it to cool down completely. Soak cotton pads in the cooled liquid and place them over closed eyelids for 10-15 minutes while you relax. The caffeine will do its magic by shrinking the blood vessels around your eyes, reducing puffiness considerably.

All these packs can be applied once a week for the best results. Results may vary from person to person, so be patient and consistent with your chosen mask. Always do a patch test before applying any homemade mask to your face to ensure you don't have an adverse reaction.

Negative effects of coffee on skin
Direct application of coffee on the skin has become increasingly popular in recent years, with claims ranging from reducing cellulite to brightening the complexion. However, before you reach for your morning cup of coffee as a skincare treatment, it is also important to consider the risks.

One of the main reasons coffee is thought to have positive effects on the skin is due to its high caffeine content. "However," Kapoor says, "applying coffee directly onto the skin is not recommended as it can cause damage due to its harshness and dryness. It is better to consult an expert before opting for any home remedies when it comes to skincare."

Deshmukh too adds, "Coffee grounds, in their coarse form, can be abrasive and may potentially irritate sensitive skin."

Coffee can be quite harsh and may cause irritation or dryness, particularly for those with sensitive or reactive skin. The coarse texture of coffee grounds, when applied too vigorously, can also cause microtears in the skin. Additionally, overuse of coffee-based products can disrupt the skin's protective barrier, resulting in increased sensitivity. The acidity of coffee could also disrupt the natural pH balance of your skin if used excessively or without proper dilution.

It's important to approach this trend with caution and consider patch testing first before applying coffee directly onto your face or body. Do not just follow any trend or videos blindly. If coffee is suitable for one, that doesn't mean it will suit your skin as well.

Disclaimer: This information does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified specialist or your physician for personalised guidance.

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