VKI Examines Coffee Cosmetics: Critical Ingredients and Dubious Efficacy Claims

In addition, the actual effect of caffeine on skin and hair frequently falls short of the advertising claims. According to VKI, manufacturers advertise effects such as cellulite reduction, firming action, or invigorating properties — in many cases, these promises are not scientifically substantiated.

Efficacy Claims Without Evidence

The product range of the tested items extends from body scrubs and shampoos to creams and cellulite products. Common to all is the reference to caffeine as the main active ingredient, frequently combined with additional plant extracts meant to signal naturalness.

For the assessment, VKI also drew on findings from the Wiener Neustadt University of Applied Sciences and the Tulln University of Applied Sciences. The scientific classification of the ingredients and the advertised effects formed the basis for the association's criticism.

Specifically, the consumer advocates take issue with, among other things, synthetic preservatives, certain fragrances, and microplastics in scrubs. According to VKI, such additives contradict the natural image conveyed by many products and pose a burden both to health and to the environment.

Tips for Consumers

According to VKI, consumers can turn to the Abhilfestelle (consumer advice center) to report questionable advertising claims or to obtain information about individual products. The association also advises checking the full INCI declaration on the packaging before reaching for a coffee cosmetic.

Birgit Schiller, who as VKI expert accompanied the investigation, emphasizes that consumers should be especially attentive to cosmetic claims. Advertising statements such as "firms the skin" or "reduces cellulite" are often difficult to grasp from a regulatory standpoint and elude clear scientific verification.

The results of the check were disseminated via Krone Multimedia (KMM) and are intended to give consumers guidance when making a purchase. VKI announced that it will continue to monitor the tested products and provide updated information as new findings emerge.

Overall, the VKI check shows that the gap between marketing and ingredients is particularly wide in the case of coffee cosmetics. In the association's view, the combination of a trendy active ingredient, natural claims, and critical ingredients makes this product category one that is especially in need of consumer education.