Exploring the Benefits of Coffee in Skincare

Not to stir the pot, but there’s an oldie (and a goodie) making its way back into the natural skincare spotlight: coffee! Known for its stimulating effects and antioxidant-rich properties, there are plenty of reasons why these beans aren’t just best served in your fave cup – but in the shower, too.

Why we love coffee in skincare

Top-shelf exfoliation

The coarse texture of coffee grounds works as a physical exfoliant, as it cleverly peels dead skin cells and impurities off the skin’s surface. Meanwhile, the antioxidants in coffee promote new skin cell growth, improving skin texture by smoothing and rejuvenating it. (Nice).

Cellulite banisher

It’s believed that the caffeine content in coffee can help with cellulite reduction. (Remember that cellulite is totally normal and a part of being human, but if you’re looking to reduce the appearance, it works by dilating blood vessels under the skin and generally improving blood flow.)

Calming companion

While coffee is well-known for its stimulating effects when consumed, it may provide different benefits when applied to the skin. This is all thanks to a lovely thing called antioxidants, which help scavenge free radicals from the body’s cells.

Anti-inflammatory hero

Coffee contains compounds like caffeine and polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory effects that may calm the skin, reducing redness and irritation. These properties can help calm conditions like puffiness, acne, or sunburn. *My hero*

Brightening beauty

The caffeine in coffee increases blood circulation to the skin, which may lead to a brighter, more even skin tone. Plus, its antioxidant-rich profile can help protect the skin from damage, promoting a more radiant complexion.

Who should use coffee in skincare?

Coffee skincare can work a treat for many skin types, but it’s important to tailor its use based on your skin’s needs. Keep scrolling for more.

Oily skin: Coffee can help balance oil production and prevent clogged pores. (We’ve got its exfoliating properties to thank for this!) 

Dry skin: Coffee’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects are super helpful for dry skin types, but consider avoiding harsh scrubs. If you can, opt for gentler formulations instead.

Sensitive skin: Coffee scrubs may be too abrasive for our sensitive skin baddies – though its antioxidants can still provide benefits in gentler products. As always, be sure to patch test first.

Acne-prone skin: Coffee’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce redness and swelling, but over-exfoliating may irritate active breakouts, so keep that in mind.

Mature skin: Our mature skin mates can benefit from coffee’s antioxidants, which help combat free radicals and reduce signs of ageing, though scrubs should be used sparingly.

Normal skin: We think you’ll likely looove coffee’s gentle exfoliation, circulation-boosting and antioxidant benefits… but don’t just take our word for it. 😉

*Ahem* – Those battling dark undereye circles will be pleased to know that coffee in skincare may benefit puffy, inflamed eyes. (This is because caffeine stimulates blood flow and dilates the blood vessels, increasing blood flow and helping the skin to naturally tighten, reducing fluid under the eyes.)

Looking for an alternative exfoliator to coffee? 

You’ll Love: Our Berry & Green Tea Exfoliating Body Washes 🍓🍵With special AHAs that gently exfoliate away dead skin and clear out clogged pores, these exfoliators will give your skin the detox it didn’t even know it needed, leaving it feeling as good as new. Literally. 

Happy Sundae x

Written By: Lizzie Waley (Sundae Co-Founder & Body Care Enthusiast) | LinkedIn

Fact Checked: Charnnie Frimpong (Sundae Content Marketing Manager) | Linkedin