If you’ve been using coffee under your eyes because of TikTok videos that claim the beauty hack will reduce your dark circles, you must stop doing it.
Just like wearing cosmetics while working out – yet another beauty fad popularized on social media – ground coffee under your eyes isn’t recommended as a dermatologist explains the reason.
Dermatologist explains why you shouldn’t use coffee under your eyes
Dr Aamna Adel, an NHS dermatologist based in London, warns against using ground coffee under your eyes to brighten dark circles as TikTok videos claim.
The dermatologist with over 1.5 million followers on TikTok is a member of the British Cosmetic Dermatology Group and actively uses the platform to discuss all things, skin, hair, and nails.
She advises against using coffee under the eye as the granules are harsh and can cause damage to your delicate and dry skin.
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However, caffeine is believed to contain vasoconstriction properties, meaning the blood vessels narrow to restrict the blood flow, thus temporarily reducing the puffiness under the eyes and also lightening dark circles.
But, the effects of the popular beauty hack are short-lived and the usage of caffeine must be consistent for long-term results.
Better alternatives to lighten dark circles
While using coffee in its natural form isn’t recommended, there are plenty of other options.
The dermatologist recommends using caffeine eye cream, eye serum with hyaluronic acid and caffeine, or The Ordinary caffeine solution.
It is a myth that sleep deprivation is the only cause of dark circles. According to the Cleveland Clinic, genetics, dermatitis, dehydration, and hyperpigmentation can cause the same effect under your eyes.
While getting more sleep can reduce dark circles to an extent, you must also watch lifestyle factors, including your sleeping position for long-term results.
Reportedly, using a pillow to elevate your head prevents fluid from collecting under your eyes at night, thus reducing puffiness. Placing cucumbers and teabags under the eyes can help reduce puffiness too.
