Caffeine has undergone a bit of a PR overhaul over the past few years. Your morning coffee ritual could very well be a walk to the local coffee shop with a hottie (including an obligatory treat), or it could be stirring matcha tea at home. Pure caffeine makes the dreaded afternoon slump a thing of the past. New products like Chagaccino (mushroom coffee, IYKYK) and other healthy energy drinks offer functional benefits such as hydration-friendly electrolytes and stress-relieving adaptogens. But caffeine, no matter how pure it is, still has effects on the body—from the gut to the skin.
Caffeine and skin: What estheticians want you to know
Caffeine is known to affect estrogen, anxiety, and of course, sleep. But there is also a link between caffeine and skin. It can exacerbate intestinal problems, lead to breakouts, and can also increase skin sensitivity. But do you have to give it up entirely to get that vibrant glow?
There are many misconceptions about caffeine and skin. To find out, I asked celebrity-approved esthetician Danuta Mieloch to find out if my daily habits were making my skin dull and what I could do about it.
Danuta Miloch
Danuta Mieloch is an award-winning esthetician, entrepreneur and founder known for her masterful skincare techniques and compassionate approach, helping thousands of clients care for their complexions for 30 years.
Does caffeine affect your skin?
“Caffeine has both positive and negative effects on the skin,” says Miloch. “When used topically, it can temporarily reduce puffiness, tighten skin, and improve the appearance of dark circles.” That’s why we see so many coffee-inspired products on the shelves—from eye gels to serums. But what about coffee?
According to Mieloch, the benefits of caffeine are numerous. “Excessive caffeine intake can lead to dehydration, which reduces the skin’s ability to retain moisture, making it look dull, dry and more prone to fine lines.”
If you have sensitive skin, caffeine may also be a trigger. “It can cause inflammation, especially in people with sensitive skin.”
Caffeine and Gut Health Link
Spend enough time with Camille Styles and you’ll encounter some discussion about gut health. Gut health impacts key pillars of health, from mood to skin. Because coffee affects your gut, it can also affect your skin.
“Caffeine can impact gut health, disrupting the delicate balance of bacteria in the microbiome, leading to potential skin problems such as acne, irritation, or rosacea,” says Mieloch. “Gut health is closely related to skin health, and inflammation or imbalance in the gut can show up on the skin in the form of breakouts or redness.”
Signs Caffeine May Affect Skin
So you suspect caffeine may be the source of your skin problems. How can you be sure? While we always recommend consulting a dermatologist, you may be able to spot some signs at home.
Increased dryness, dullness, or irritation. “Overconsumption can dehydrate your body and skin,” Miloch says, “resulting in a lack of moisture. You may also see signs like increased breakouts or redness, especially if it disrupts your gut health or increases your stress levels.
Lack of quality sleep. If you use caffeine to support your busy schedule, a lack of beauty sleep may be taking a toll on you. “Sleep disturbances caused by caffeine may worsen dark circles and puffiness. If you have inflamed or sensitive skin, reducing your caffeine intake may help calm your skin.
Should You Do a Caffeine Detox?
Giving up caffeine completely may seem radical, but it’s not impossible. Even a temporary reset, such as a “dry (coffee) month,” may give you insights into how your caffeine intake affects you in different ways.
“Reducing or eliminating caffeine for a period of time allows your body to reboot, restore hydration, and improve sleep quality—both of which are critical for healthy skin,” says Mieloch. “It may also help reduce inflammation and restore a healthier gut environment.”
But don’t worry, your matcha or cold brew coffee won’t have Go… at least not completely. “If a complete detox feels too extreme, consider gradually reducing your intake and monitoring the effects on your skin and energy levels.”
How to reduce the effects of caffeine on your skin—without giving up
Miloch’s point: “If you’re not ready to give up caffeine completely, just focus on moderation.” It’s all about balance. “Balancing your caffeine intake and maintaining a good skincare routine can help mitigate these effects.” Her biggest tip? Moisturize. Balance your coffee or tea intake with plenty of water throughout the day. For every cup of coffee you drink, try drinking an extra glass of water to counteract the effects of dehydration.
Incorporate a hydrating skin care product, such as Danucera’s Cerabalm, into your skin care routine to keep your skin moisturized and elastic. Of course, maintaining a healthy sleep schedule and diet will help support skin health from the inside out.
