Ingredient glossary
Caffeine
INCI: Caffeine
A reasonable supporting ingredient. It helps a formula without being the star.
What it does
- antioxidant
- de puffing
- microcirculation
moderate evidenceSmall eye area trials with three percent caffeine creams and combination protocols show reductions in periorbital edema and dark circle scores but sample sizes and effect sizes are modest.
On a label: usually effective at 1-3%.
Who it's for, and who should skip it
Tends to suit
- normal
- combo
- oily
- periorbital concerns
Approach with care
- very sensitive
- compromised barrier
- Clogs poresLow
- Irritation riskModerate
Pregnancy: Check with your doctor before using during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Plays well with
- peptides
- retinoids
- vitamin c
This, for every label you own
One ingredient is easy. A full label is where it gets confusing. The Ingredient Decoder reads any product and tells you the honest truth, ingredient by ingredient.
Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.