Coffee scrubs have gained popularity as an effective skincare solution for improving skin texture, moisture, and brightness. This article delves into research on using coffee scrubs for body skincare, highlighting its impact on skin moisture and brightness over seven weeks of treatment.
Using coffee as a scrub is not a new phenomenon in skincare. The coarse texture of coffee grounds makes it an ideal exfoliant, which helps remove dead skin cells and reveal smoother skin. Beyond exfoliation, coffee is known for its antioxidant properties, promoting blood circulation and potentially reducing the appearance of cellulite.
● Coffee’s Key Components and Benefits
Coffee contains compounds such as caffeine and antioxidants, which play a significant role in improving skin health. Caffeine stimulates blood flow and reduces water retention, which can diminish puffiness and give the skin a firmer appearance. The antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, preventing skin damage and premature aging.
● How Coffee Scrubs Improve Skin Health
Coffee scrubs enhance the skin’s moisture and brightness through regular use. According to the study, the moisture content in the skin improved from “dry” to “moist” after seven treatments. Similarly, the skin’s brightness increased significantly, moving from a "dark" to a "bright" category.
The research focused on female students aged 19 to 25 years with dry skin. A pre-experimental study design with pre- and post-tests was used to measure the effect of coffee scrubs on skin moisture and brightness.
● Participants and Procedure
The study sample included five female students with dry body skin. They were treated with a coffee scrub once a week for seven weeks. The coffee scrub was made using Arabica coffee mixed with warm water, and it was applied to the hands during each treatment session.
● Assessment Criteria
Skin moisture and brightness were assessed using a skin analyzer and a skin tone scale, respectively. The moisture content was categorized as very dry, dry, normal, or moist. Brightness was classified as dark, slightly bright, bright, or very bright. These assessments were done before and after the treatment sessions.
The study showed that coffee scrubs had a positive impact on both the moisture and brightness of the skin. Below is a summary of the findings:
● Improvement in Skin Moisture
The average skin moisture score increased from 1.4 (very dry) to 3.8 (moist) after seven treatments. The greatest improvement was noted between the fourth and seventh treatment sessions, where skin moisture rose to a level considered "normal" or "moist."
● Enhancement in Skin Brightness
Skin brightness improved from a score of 1.8 (dark) to 4.4 (bright) over the seven treatments. Participants reported visibly brighter skin, with scores reaching the “bright” category by the end of the study.
The research concluded that coffee scrubs can be effectively used once a week for improving skin moisture and brightness. However, it is essential to follow a consistent regimen and pair the scrub with other skincare routines such as moisturizing.
● Creating an Effective Coffee Scrub
To prepare a coffee scrub at home, mix three tablespoons of ground Arabica coffee with an equal amount of warm water. Stir until a paste forms, then apply it evenly to the body in circular motions. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with warm water. This process helps open up the pores and ensures better absorption of the beneficial components in coffee.
● Astuti, M., Rahmiati, R., & Abiyoga, B. (2020). The Use of Coffee as Body Scrub for Body Skin Care. The Third International Conference on Culinary, Fashion, Beauty, and Tourism (ICCFBT) 2020, Universitas Negeri Padang, Indonesia.