Coffee Aware is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commision. Learn more

Does Drinking Coffee Darken Your Skin? – Comprehensive Answer

Drinking coffee can give a refreshing feeling. But at the same time, many believe it can cause havoc on your skin.

So, if you are worried about your complexion and wondering, “Does drinking coffee darken your skin?”. Brace yourself before you quit coffee; give this article a good read. 

Does drinking coffee darken your skin

I will burst all the myths and misconceptions attached to drinking coffee. Coffee doesn’t darken your skin. In fact, “melanin”, a pigment in our skin, decides our skin color. 

What is melanin? And how does it define skin color?

Melanin is a naturally found pigment in our bodies that determines the color of our hair, eyes, and skin. The more the level of melanin you have in your body, your skin will appear darker. 

The melanin production in your body depends upon your genetics. There are no scientific studies that indicate coffee affects skin complexion. 

Hence, contrary to the common misconception, coffee doesn’t make your skin darker. But yes, coffee may cause other skin problems, especially if you have it in excess. 

So, as long as you limit your coffee intake to a minimum, you don’t have anything to worry about. 

What happens to the skin if you drink too much coffee? 

Having cup after cup of coffee fuels us, avid coffee drinkers, throughout the day. But, according to the experts, too much coffee can adversely affect your skin.

Especially if you have an acne problem, having an excess of coffee can be the reason behind frequent breakouts. It can make your skin dehydrated and give it a dull look.

Furthermore, too much coffee can increase acidity in your body and interfere with hormone production, making your skin oily. Also, drinking coffee with milk and sugar added increases the chances of acne breakouts. 

So, if you drink more than three cups of coffee, balance your water intake. Also, make sure you take a balanced diet to help replenish your skin and give you a glowing complexion. 

You may also like: How to Make Strong Coffee in a Coffee Maker?

What are the causes behind the darkening of skin complexion?

Hang on before you panic and say goodbye to your beloved coffee. You must feel relieved knowing there is no link between coffee and the darkening of the skin.

Here are some actual reasons that may make your skin dark and dull.

Exposure to the sun

Always make sure that you take some precautionary measures when stepping outside in the sun. Make sure you apply sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 40.

Direct exposure to the sun is the primary cause that leads to an increase in the production of melanin, as a result, leaving you with a dark and dull complexion. 

Pollution 

The presence of pollution and toxins in the environment causes oxidative stress on the skin. 

This disrupts the balance and causes permanent damage to the skin in the form of hyperpigmentation and premature aging.

Hormones 

Changes in hormones due to pregnancy, thyroid, hypertension, PCOS, diabetes, and hypertension also cause the skin to darken. 

Also read this: 11 Best Espresso Machines Under 600 | Reviews in 2024

What are some benefits of drinking coffee?

Coffee, if done right, may end up being beneficial for you. Here are some benefits of drinking coffee.

It contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties to make your skin look tighter. The antioxidants in coffee help protect you from heart disease, kidney damage, and diabetes.  

Besides, coffee comes packed with nutrients, minerals, and vitamins that help boost brain health. Also, it promotes your mental health and helps improve your metabolism

The caffeine levels in coffee help boost your energy and make you feel alert. It works to reduce fatigue and give a fresh feeling. 

In the long run, it can help in protecting you from diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. You can only enjoy all these benefits of coffee if you consume it in moderation.

FAQs

Is coffee good for your complexion?

Applying coffee topically helps in the reduction of dark spots, and redness. It also helps control inflammation and reduce fine lines. It is the reason why many skin care creams include coffee in their ingredients.

Is one cup of coffee a day bad for the skin?

Though, you can have about four to five cups of coffee in a day as suggested by the FDA. But, keeping in view the effect of coffee drinking on the skin, one to two cups is good enough. 

Remember when it comes to your skin, the lesser the coffee consumption the better your skin is going to appear.

Is drinking coffee good for skin whitening?

Drinking coffee doesn’t do much for skin whitening. Instead, you can try putting a radiant coffee mask on your face to brighten your skin. 

Mix a spoonful of coffee along with a spoonful of milk and apply it to your face. Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before washing your face. This coffee and milk mask helps remove dead cells from your skin and gives it a glow.

Final Thoughts 

Having coffee is an essential part of the daily routine for a majority of people all over the world. It is the most popular drink to give you a jump start on your day.

Coffee on its own may not cause your skin to become dark. But, overconsumption of coffee may lead to a spike in caffeine, leading to frequent breakouts and acne. So, when drinking coffee, always remember that less is more. To enjoy its benefits, drink black coffee without milk or sugar.

Related Posts: