The antioxidant to help smooth & brighten your skin 

When searching for eye creams, you may notice caffeine as a popular ingredient in many products. When applied topically, it may temporarily help visibly brighten dark circles. Read on to learn more!  

What is caffeine?

We commonly think of caffeine as a central nervous system stimulant found in beverages like coffee and tea.

However, when applied topically, caffeine penetrates the skin barrier and acts as an antioxidant to help smooth skin and slow down photoaging effects. Using topical caffeine can help wake up tired eyes!

What are the benefits of caffeine for the skin?

• It has potent antioxidant properties which protect cells against UV radiation. This slows down photoaging of the skin.1
• Caffeine has demonstrated vasoconstrictive effects when applied topically, helping lighten certain causes of under-eye dark circles.2

Where can you get topical caffeine?

Your Agency dermatology provider can include topical caffeine in your Eye Formula. 

You can also find topical caffeine eye creams, serums, and masks over the counter. However, our Agency Eye formula has been formulated by dermatologists to be more effective than over-the-counter eye creams.*

*Results may vary. Product and ingredients subject to medical consultation. Subscription required. Restrictions apply. See website for full details and important safety information.

Are there any side effects?

Topical caffeine has a low risk for irritation but can cause some stinging, tingling, or burning for some. If eye or skin irritation occurs, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.

Want to know more about your Eye Formula?

You know your skin—we’re here to help you know your skincare. Our team of dermatology experts has helped create guides to each of the possible ingredients in our personalized formulas. 

See how these ingredients available in the Eye Formula can help you reach your goals: tretinoin, dexpanthenol, epigallocatechin gallate, glycerin.

1. Herman A, Herman AP. Caffeine's mechanisms of action and its cosmetic use. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2013;26(1):8-14. doi: 10.1159/000343174. Epub 2012 Oct 11. PMID: 23075568.
2. Elias ML, Israeli AF, Madan R. Caffeine in Skincare: Its Role in Skin Cancer, Sun Protection, and Cosmetics. Indian J Dermatol. 2023 Sep-Oct;68(5):546-550. doi: 10.4103/ijd.ijd_166_22. PMID: 38099120; PMCID: PMC10718232.