Caffeine Break: How does coffee really affect your skin?
Are your morning runs to Starbucks really sabotaging your skin?
Coffee is a controversial substance that is constantly plagued by rumours of its harmfulness and its benefits. One moment it’s bad for us, they next we’re not getting enough of it. So what is the truth about coffee in regards to our skin health?
The truth is coffee stands on a grey area. It does have certain benefits but also can prove harmful to your skin. It all just depends on your daily caffeine habits and practices.
As many of us know, a cup of java is a potent source of caffeine. It is this caffeine that slaps us awake in the morning and helps us stay awake as we pull all-nighters.
Downsides of Coffee
Caffeine may give us the energy to rev up our engines, but it is also a diuretic. Diuretics help your body get rid of water by making you pee more often, which ends up dehydrating your body. If you suffer from severely dry skin, it is recommended that you cut down on the java.
Another reason to be mindful of your caffeine intake is when you’re suffering from acne or breakouts. Caffeine is also highly acidic, which has an adverse effect on your stress hormones, which can mess with your skin’s oil production.
Skincare Benefits
However, coffee is not all bad. It does provide us with several useful skin benefits. For one, coffee grounds make a great exfoliator if you’re planning to make your own homemade scrub.
If you have problems with pesky cellulite, try rubbing some coffee grounds on them. The same diuretic that causes dehydration also helps improve the appearance of cellulite, giving you firmer and smoother skin. Caffeine also has the ability to constrict blood vessels, making coffee useful for depuffing your face or even eyes when applied topically.
Coffee is a double-edged sword that will only harm you if consumed thoughtlessly. You won’t need to give up your precious morning cuppa, just take the time to assess your needs and concerns and you should be as right as rain.
Amanda Lim
Photo: Getty Images
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