Caffeine Improves Barrier Function in Male Skin

September 2006 in “ International Journal of Cosmetic Science ”

J. M. Brandner, Martin J. Behne, B. Huesing, Ingrid Moll

caffeine skin barrier function androgens testosterone transepidermal water loss hydroxyethylcellulose gel

TLDR Caffeine improves male skin's barrier function.

The study investigated the effects of caffeine on skin barrier function, particularly in male skin, which is typically disadvantaged due to the influence of androgens like testosterone. Conducted as a double-blind placebo-controlled study, 0.5% caffeine in a hydroxyethylcellulose gel was applied to the forearms of male and female volunteers over 7 days. The results showed that caffeine significantly reduced transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in male skin compared to female skin, suggesting that caffeine can improve barrier function in male skin by counteracting testosterone-induced effects.

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