INCI Name
Caffeine
Functions
3 Roles
Sustainability
8/10
Category
actives
What It Does
Caffeine is a naturally occurring purine alkaloid extracted from coffee beans, tea leaves, and other botanical sources. In cosmetic formulations, it's valued for its ability to temporarily constrict blood vessels, reducing puffiness and dark circles, particularly in eye care products, while also providing antioxidant protection against UV-induced free radicals. Formulators choose anhydrous caffeine powder for its high purity (typically 98-100%), excellent stability, and versatility in both water-based and anhydrous systems, with typical use concentrations ranging from 0.5-3%.
Technical Properties
pH Range
5.0-7.0
Optimal working range
Ionic Charge
nonionic
Molecular charge type
Viscosity Effect
neutral
Impact on formula thickness
Molecular Profile
Molecular Weight
194.19
g/mol
LogP
-0.10
Partition coefficient (lipophilicity)
H-Bond Donors
0
Hydrogen bond donor count
H-Bond Acceptors
3
Hydrogen bond acceptor count
Polar Surface Area
58.4
Angstroms squared
Ingredient Compatibility
Known Interactions
Caffeine + Ephedrine combination is banned by FDA due to cardiovascular risk (hypertension, tachycardia, stroke). Never combine in any consumer product.
Sustainability Profile
Sustainability Score
Biodegradability
readily biodegradable
Source
plant-derived
Feedstock
coffee beans, tea leaves, guarana
Related Ingredients
Similar antioxidants to explore
Quick Reference
- Full INCI Name
- Caffeine
- Common Name
- Caffeine
- CAS Number
- 58-08-2
- Category
- actives