If you think coffee is only good for getting you moving in the morning then you are going to REALLY love what I am about to say. Your cup of joe is so much more than an energy booster. It will:
Revitalize your skin
Remove dead cells
Boost collagen production
Reduce cellulite
Soothe puffy eyes
There are dozens and dozens of studies on coffee and the effects on the body. These effects also extend to the skin and overall health and wellness. There are specific compounds found in coffee that offer such amazing benefits. Let’s take a look at exactly what those compounds are and what they do.
Using coffee grounds is a great way to exfoliate the skin. Coffee grounds are not overly harsh on the skin and won’t cause micro-tears.
The caffeine will stimulate circulation and help firm and tone skin while reducing cellulite. Caffeine also helps clear toxins from the body and discourages fat from being stored within cells. The stimulation that caffeine has on circulation is temporary so maintain a routine that incorporates coffee grounds for long-lasting results.
Your tub will get a bit messy and you might have to do a quick scrub afterward but your skin is well worth the extra 5 minutes of cleaning time. Using coffee grounds as a facial exfoliant will also clear away dead skin cells, dirt, and oil leaving your face revitalized and clean.
Caffeic acid is an antioxidant that boosts collagen production and slows the aging of skin cells. It is a potent antioxidant that blocks free radicals and the progressive aging they induce. This translates to fewer wrinkles much later on in life. Caffeic acid is also an anti-inflammatory which means it will ease puffy irritated skin including the under-eye area. Mix a small amount of coffee grounds with either oil or water and gently apply it to the under-eye area. Allow is to stay on the skin for at least 15 minutes before gently rinsing it off.
Polyphenols reduce sun damage by protecting from damaging UV rays. Polyphenols are antioxidants that reduce and prevent damage from environmental free radicals. They have also been shown to kill cancerous cell growth.
Harmful environmental factors such as pollution, fried food, the sun, and chemicals create stress and oxidation within the body. This stress attacks healthy cells and sets off a chain reaction causing damage and enabling disease. Oxidative stress can lead to advanced signs of aging, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and cancer.
This is why protecting the skin and incorporating antioxidants in your diet and beauty routine are very important. They keep cells healthy and functioning at optimal levels.
Chlorogenic acids (CGA) are antioxidants that protect the skin from free radicals and also reduce inflammation. The most potent ways to get CGA’s are from coffee, tea, sunflower seeds, and blueberries. Coffee beans are 5-10% chlorogenic acids which makes them an ideal source of antioxidants. CGA’s are also antimicrobial which means they break down harmful bacteria reducing the likelihood of some types of infections.
Note that the roasting process for coffee beans can reduce the amount of CGA’s. For maximum benefits choose one that is high-quality, light roasted and organic.
Vitamin B3 acts like other B vitamins by helping to convert food into energy. However, vitamin B3 also stimulates collagen production which increases skin elasticity and firmness. B3 strengthens the skin’s barrier which keeps skin hydrated and protected from damage. B3 is known to reduce sunspots and prevent the spread of skin discoloration. The anti-inflammatory properties of this vitamin reduce redness associated with eczema, rosacea and acne.
The benefits of coffee go so much further than a quick wake up. The nutrients in coffee are wonderful for the skin and also help protect overall cell health. It offers antioxidants, anti-inflammatory benefits, increased circulation, and essential nutrients for radiant skin.
