Caffeine has experienced a bit of a PR renaissance in the last few years. Your morning coffee ritual might be a hot girl walking to your local cafe (complete with compulsive treats) as you have to whip up some matcha at home. Pure caffeine makes the dreaded afternoon slump a thing of the past. Newcomers like Chagaccino (mushroom coffee, IYKYK) and other healthy energy drinks offer functional benefits such as electrolytes that are great for hydration and stress-reducing adaptogens. But caffeine, no matter how pure it is, still has its effects on the body—from your gut to your skin.
Caffeine and Skin: What the Esthetician Wants 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 increase intestinal problems, lead to breakouts, and increase skin sensitivity. But do you have to give it up completely to achieve that essential glow?
There are a lot of myths surrounding caffeine and skin. For answers, I consulted Danuta Mieloch, a celebrity-endorsed esthetician, to find out if my daily routine is wreaking havoc on my skin—and what I can do about it.
Danuta Mieloch
Danuta Mieloch is an award-winning esthetician, entrepreneur and innovator known for her expertise in skin care and compassionate techniques, helping thousands of clients take care of their complexions over the course of 30 years.
Does caffeine affect your skin?
“Caffeine can have both positive and negative effects on the skin,” says Mieloch. “It can temporarily reduce puffiness, tighten the skin, and improve the appearance of under-eye circles when applied topically.” That’s why we’re seeing so many coffee-inspired products on our shelves—from eye gels to serums. But what about drinking coffee?
According to Mieloch, when it comes to caffeine, there’s too much of a good thing. “When consumed in excess, caffeine can lead to dehydration, which reduces your skin’s ability to stay hydrated, making it look dull, dry and more prone to fine lines.”
If you have sensitive skin, caffeine may be the cause. “It can contribute to inflammation, especially for those with sensitive skin.”
The Caffeine-Gut Health Connection
Spend enough time around us here at Camille Styles, and you’ll come across talks about gut health. Gut health affects important pillars of health, from your emotions to your skin. And because coffee can affect your gut, it can also affect your skin.
“Caffeine can affect gut health and disrupt the delicate balance of bacteria in the microbiome, leading to potential skin problems like acne, irritation, or rosacea,” says Mieloch. “Gut health is closely linked to skin health, and an inflamed or uneven gut can show up on your skin in the form of breakouts or redness.”
Symptoms Caffeine May Affect Your Skin
So, you suspect that caffeine may be at the root of your skin problems. How can you be sure? While we always recommend seeing a dermatologist, there are some symptoms you may be able to spot at home.
Increased thirst, numbness, or irritation. “Drinking too much can dehydrate the body and skin,” says Mieloch, “leading to a lack of moisture.” You may also notice symptoms such as increased swelling or redness, especially if it affects your gut health or raises your stress levels. “
Lack of quality sleep. If you use caffeine to support your busy schedule, the lack of beauty sleep can catch up to you. “Dark circles and puffiness can be worsened by sleep disturbances caused by caffeine. If your skin is inflamed or sensitive, cutting back on caffeine can help calm the mood.”
Should you do a caffeine detox?
Cutting out caffeine completely may seem difficult, but it’s not impossible. Even a temporary reset—like Dry (Coffee) January—may provide insight into how your caffeinated diet affects you in different ways.
“Reducing or eliminating caffeine for a period of time allows your body to reset, rehydrate and improve sleep quality—both of which are important for healthy skin,” says Mieloch. “It may also help reduce inflammation and restore a healthy gut environment.”
But don’t worry, your matcha or cold drink doesn’t be walking… at least not completely. “If a full detox sounds too extreme, consider reducing your intake gradually and monitor the effect on your skin and energy levels.”
How to Reduce Caffeine’s Effects on Your Skin—Without Quitting
Mieloch’s take: “If you’re not ready to give up caffeine completely, focus on moderation.” It’s all about balance. “Limiting caffeinated foods and maintaining a good skin care routine helps reduce these effects.” His biggest tip? Hydration. Balance your coffee or tea with plenty of water throughout the day. For every cup of coffee, try to drink an extra glass of water to counteract the effects of dehydration.
Include hydrating skincare products (like Danucera’s Cerabalm) in your skin care routine to keep your skin hydrated and firm. Of course, maintaining a healthy sleep and diet routine will help support skin health inside and out.