I believe Sara Ali Khan’s obsession with caffeine isn’t driven by a lack of sleep; but by a devotion to her skin. The actress’ round-the-clock glow is phenomenal. She recently posted a photo of herself enjoying some coffee in the morning, and it got me thinking.
Can caffeine do anything for the skin? Well, turns out it can do a lot. You can also redeem these benefits ASAP — some by consuming the beverage and others by applying it topically.
Slows The Premature Ageing Of Cells
Coffee contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can protect cells from premature ageing — often triggered by UV exposure. The caffeine and chlorogenic acids in coffee combat wrinkles, lines, pigmentation, and other signs of ageing.
Apart from drinking coffee, you can try layering on a caffeine-infused mask after cleansing your face. The Arabica Coffee Face Scrub has glow-inducing as well as anti-ageing effects on the skin.
Can Fight Cancer
A cup of coffee can reduce your risk of developing cancer. This is, again, thanks to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties that fight malignant melanoma and basal cell carcinoma (which are types of cancer).
Combats Puffy Under Eyes
Thanks to the anti-inflammatory properties of coffee, it can soothe under-eye puffiness and dark circles effectively. It also dilates the blood vessels around the eyes and increases circulation. Coffee helps treat pigmentation and swelling by re-energising the skin.
Mix half a teaspoon of coffee (powder) with one tablespoon of honey. Apply the mix under the eyes for 15 minutes before washing it off. You can even invest in a caffeine-infused eye cream or serum like the St Botanica Caffeine 1% Under Eye Cream Roller instead.
Can Treat Acne Effectively
Coffee’s anti-inflammatory properties, along with antibacterial abilities, allow it to heal inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria. Not just this. Chlorogenic acid in coffee can help tackle hyperpigmentation caused by acne and scars. A coffee face pack can help you in this case.
Reduces The Appearance Of Cellulite
To fully redeem this benefit, you can exfoliate your body with a caffeine-infused scrub. It dilates your blood vessels and increases circulation which reduces the appearance of cellulite on the body. Exfoliation, too, can trigger increased blood flow. You can use The Beauty Co. Chocolate Coffee Body Scrub to exfoliate, remove tan, and moisturise.
And because coffee contains antioxidants, it can stimulate collagen production and make your skin look smoother and firm.
Defends Against Sun Damage
It protects you from UV-induced damage too. It’s a lot like sunscreen. No more sun spots. No more hyperpigmentation or wrinkles. Lesser risk of cancer (even if you consume it). But don’t replace your sunscreens with coffee.
Obviously — this doesn’t mean you overindulge. Drinking a cup of coffee in the A.M. is enough — and the rest can be products or DIYs containing caffeine instead.
Featured Image: Instagram