Caffeine
INCI: Caffeine
Hair & ScalpactivebotanicalModerate evidencePregnancy safe
78
Skinlumis Rating
Comedogenic
0/5
Irritancy
1/5
Best applied
AM
Effective range
0.5%–3%
How It Works
A xanthine alkaloid that promotes hair shaft growth in vitro and reduces under-eye puffiness when applied topically.
Inhibits phosphodiesterase, raising cAMP in follicles to extend anagen; vasoconstricts dilated capillaries under eyes.
pH Range
5.0–7.0
Benefits
- Reduces under-eye puffiness
- Supports hair growth
- Antioxidant
Proven For
What the evidence supports.
Under-eye puffinessMild hair thinning
Best For
- All skin types
Avoid If
No notable contraindications reported.
Layering Order
4/10
Mid-routine serum or treatment step.
Max Safe Concentration
5%
Concentration range in well-formulated products: 0.5%–3%
Seasonal Use
Year-round.
Nutrition Connection
Dietary caffeine (coffee, tea).
Skin Signals When You Need It
No specific deficiency signals tracked for this ingredient.
For Estheticians & Professionals
Cool eye creams enhance vasoconstrictor effect for puffy AM eyes.
Pairs Well With
NiacinamidePeptides
Conflicts With
No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.
Your Skin Compatibility
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