Coffee is not only a beloved morning beverage but also a true helper in skincare. It can be used in scrubs, face masks, and other body care treatments. Ground coffee is excellent for gentle mechanical exfoliation, and its active components nourish the skin with beneficial substances, leaving it fresh and radiant. Learn about the benefits of coffee scrubs and how to incorporate them into your daily routine in our article.

A coffee scrub is a product containing coffee granules or finely ground coffee particles that gently exfoliate the skin and remove dead cells.

It’s important to remember that there are two types of exfoliation: physical, where abrasive components mechanically remove dead cells, and chemical, where substances such as alpha hydroxy acids dissolve the “glue” that binds cells together. A coffee scrub falls under physical exfoliation.

As mentioned, a coffee scrub primarily acts as a gentle peeling treatment: by removing dead cells, it reveals fresh, glowing skin, and active ingredients applied afterward are absorbed much more effectively. Additionally, the skin becomes noticeably softer and smoother to the touch.

Moreover, the caffeine in the scrub provides extra benefits. It stimulates blood circulation, giving the skin a healthy glow. Studies also show that caffeine may temporarily reduce the appearance of fat deposits due to mild dehydration, and the constriction of blood vessels makes the skin look less puffy and swollen. However, it’s worth noting that since the scrub is rinsed off, these effects are less pronounced than when using leave-on products such as creams.

If you have very sensitive skin or conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, it’s best to avoid physical scrubs entirely. Among the different types of body scrubs, coffee scrubs are considered less abrasive compared to salt scrubs, while sugar scrubs usually have the gentlest granules. However, if you choose a coffee scrub, it’s important that it contains soothing ingredients like glycerin, ceramides, or shea butter, and that it’s used correctly. In this case, a coffee scrub is suitable for most people.

If you want to include a coffee scrub in your skincare routine, use it 1–2 times a week. This helps avoid over-exfoliation, which can lead to irritation and increased skin sensitivity. Apply the scrub with gentle, light movements: strong pressure and vigorous rubbing increase the abrasive effect and may irritate the skin. After the procedure, be sure to apply a moisturizing cream—it will help keep your skin soft, hydrated, and soothed.

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Coffee scrub is an effective product for gentle mechanical exfoliation of the skin. Using it regularly, once a week, helps remove dead skin cells, leaving the skin smoother, more radiant, and refreshed. The caffeine in coffee also helps reduce puffiness and swelling, giving the face a rested and energized appearance. Coffee scrubs are suitable for most skin types, except for very sensitive skin. 

Read also: Which is more effective for skin hydration: squalane or hyaluronic acid – dermatologists’ opinion