Caffeine’s ability to constrict small blood vessels and reduce inflammation is an asset in a number of creams designed to minimize dark circles and sagging skin under the eyes. These same anti-inflammatory qualities serve caffeine well as an ingredient in cellulite creams, where caffeine’s ability to cause dehydration is put to good use drawing excess fluid from fat cells to improve the skin’s appearance.
The effects of cellulite creams containing caffeine are not permanent and disappear when you discontinue use of the creams, according to aesthetic medicine specialist Dr. Yves Hébert. Eye creams containing caffeine may provide some benefit, but cannot change genetics. When coffee berry extracts are used as antioxidants, they may cause breakouts, says University of Miami dermatology professor Dr. Leslie Baumann.