Caffeine is used in specialist cosmetic and skin care products, as it helps with the absorption of the other active ingredients contained in the formula.  In clinical trials it was also proved that caffeine works in synergy and improves the effects of escin (the active ingredient found in Horse chestnut).

This is a heterocyclic organic compound, classed as heterocyclic compounds. Caffeine is used as a miscellaneous skin-conditioning agent and can also be applied as a fragrance ingredient. It furthermore presents a lipolytic effect: it blocks enzymes responsible for the destruction of AMPc, which is involved in triglycerides breakage.

It also possesses vasodilator properties, increasing blood flow and therefore contributes in both the lipolytic and venotonic effect.

Caffeine does not have the same effect on the skin, when used topically in skin care, as it has when taken systemically (e.g. when you drink coffee).