Coffee contains both antioxidants and caffeine. The former fights oxidative stress that ages the skin, while the latter helps blood circulate through the body. This fortunate combination improves complexion in many ways. Oxidative stress causes inflammation, which is responsible for breakouts in the skin. Both antioxidants and caffeine are anti-inflammatories. Coffee contains hydrocinnamic acids, polyphenols, and other plant-based compounds that can stop inflammation, thereby preventing breakouts.
Of these anti-inflammatory phytochemicals, polyphenols are the most abundant. They account for the deep and vibrant color of coffee, which in turn is considered to be the most significant source antioxidants in many diets. Polyphenols subdue free radicals that can damage DNA through oxidative stress. They also shield against damage done by heavy exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Their protective effects help keep skin looking younger and smoother. (Related: The scientific way to brew the perfect cup of coffee every time.)
A skin exfoliate and cellulite remover
Coffee can also be used to improve exfoliation of the skin. When applied to the skin, the rough texture of its granules speed up the natural removal of dead skin cells. For best results, drink coffee before or after you scrub granules on your face. The combination of improved blood flow and faster shedding can brighten and soften your skin.
The caffeine in coffee is also a strong contender when it comes to reducing cellulite. Caffeine can penetrate the skin to reach the tissue and blood vessels beneath. Applying coffee on the skin improves the smoothness of cellulite. Caffeine also breaks down fat cells that it encounters.
“Emulsion with caffeine caused a reduction of 17% on the diameter of the fatty cells compared with the control," reported a University of São Paulo study conducted in 2008. "Emulsion… was considered to promote the lipolytic action on fatty tissue, acting as a complement to treat cellulite.”
Brighter skin, less swelling, and fewer dark circles
If your skin is dull and tired, the antioxidants in coffee can restore your vitality. Coffee encourages nutrients to enter the pores of the skin. The improved circulation helps bring those nutrients to where they are needed. To refresh your skin, apply topical coffee on it. You can use the coffee as a scrub or as a mask. It will brighten your complexion in no time at all.
In a similar vein, coffee can reduce edema, a condition where tissues retain so much fluid that they end up swelling. Edema is responsible for the puffy faces and swollen eyes that greet you when you wake up. Caffeine, methylxanthine, and other compounds in coffee exert diuretic activities that drain fluids. They can help decrease the swelling attributed to edema by reducing the amount of fluid trapped in the tissue.
Last but not least, caffeine can also get rid of the dark circles under your eyes. These circles are caused by sluggish blood that is stuck in the micro blood vessels in the skin. Putting topical coffee on the skin beneath your eyes improves the circulation there. The stagnant blood gets replaced by fresh new blood full of nutrients, which rejuvenates the skin.
There are also studies that indicate how coffee can protect the brain from age-related deficiencies. So using coffee as a skincare product can also keep your mind sharp even as you look the part.
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