The Reason Why Coffee May Be Aging You Quicker
Coffee has seen a surge in positive health benefits thanks to new research findings. Some studies have found that drinking moderate amounts of coffee is linked to a lower risk of diabetes, heart disease, neurological diseases, stroke, and suicide (via Inc). It can even counteract parts of the natural aging process such as inflammation and cognitive decline.
However, there is one component in coffee that may be working against these positive effects and may actually be aging you quicker. Caffeine is a diuretic, meaning it can dehydrate your skin by depleting your body of moisture. This, in turn, can make your skin look older if you are not diligent about your hydration.
"Anything dehydrating can dehydrate your skin, making it look dull and aged," dermatologist Ranella Hirsch, former president of the American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology & Aesthetic Surgery, told Health. Hirsch said using a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid can battle the effects of dehydrating caffeinated drinks like coffee.
Does coffee help or hurt the skin's aging process?
However, there is some debate as to whether coffee actually has that big of an impact on aging your skin. According to LiveStrong, the caffeine found in coffee or tea is actually absorbed by other body tissues — not only your skin. In fact, your skin absorbs such a minor portion, that it likely doesn't influence skin's appearance all that much.
But coffee can have some negative impacts on your health if you aren't consuming it in moderation. Up to four cups of coffee — or 400 milligrams — is the maximum recommended amount in a single day (via Mayo Clinic). More than that can induce the dehydrating diuretic effect, as well as cause issues with sleeping, headaches, nervousness, fast heartbeats, and more.
If you have concerns about your caffeine intake and how it may be affecting your health, you should speak with your medical physician. A dermatologist can also recommend a skin care routine that will have your skin looking youthful — with or without your caffeine fix.