Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG
A lightweight water-based eye serum designed to help reduce the look of puffiness and dark circles.
A smart targeted eye serum for people focused on puffiness and tired-looking under-eyes, especially if they want a simple, non-heavy formula.
It's one of the most affordable eye serums with a meaningful caffeine concentration. Most drugstore eye creams bury caffeine at the tail end of the ingredient list. 5% is actually a relevant dose — and the price point makes it easy to commit consistently.
Morning application is most popular for the depuffing effect. Apply after any water-based serums, before eye cream or moisturizer. Pat gently — do not rub the delicate eye area.
People who get puffy in the mornings, anyone whose eyes look tired after poor sleep, and anyone building a simple, fuss-free eye routine at a low price point.
If dark circles are caused by genetics, very thin skin, or deep pigmentation rather than puffiness. Also, if the eye area is very dry — the formula is lightweight, not an occlusive, so it may not be enough moisture on its own.
Gentle enough to continue — there's nothing aggressive in this formula for most people. If stinging occurs, it's likely the propanediol or lactic acid — discontinue and patch test again later.
- A hydrating serum beneath it (the formula is lightweight and benefits from added hydration)
- Morning SPF moisturizer on top
- A heavier eye cream at night for extra moisture
Best For
- Puffiness
- Dark circles
- Tired-looking under-eyes
- Lightweight eye routines
- Layering under moisturizer or concealer
How to Use
Apply a small amount to the eye contour area in the morning and/or evening before heavier creams.
Key Ingredients
Constricts blood vessels (reduces puffiness and dark circles), provides antioxidant protection, and stimulates scalp circulation when used in scalp serums.
Provides powerful antioxidant protection against free radical damage, reduces inflammation, and supports skin defense against environmental stressors. Used in eye serums for its combination of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits in the delicate eye area.
Draws water to the skin and helps lock it in, making skin appear plumper, smoother, and more hydrated.
Acts as an antioxidant to protect skin cells from oxidative damage. Has been explored for inhibiting melanin production through tyrosinase activity reduction, which may contribute to brightening over time.
Draws moisture to the skin, helps maintain hydration, and reinforces the skin barrier.
At lower concentrations (2–5%): hydrates and softens skin. At higher concentrations (10–20%+): exfoliates and softens thickened, rough, or callused skin.
Ingredients to Note
May be a concern for some skin types. Tap to learn more.
Full Ingredient List
Aqua (Water), Caffeine, Propanediol, Maltodextrin, Glycerin, Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside, Gallyl Glucoside, Hyaluronic Acid, Oxidized Glutathione, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract, Polypodium Vulgare Rhizome Extract, Cetraria Islandica Thallus Extract, Sphagnum Magellanicum Extract, Urea, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Xanthan Gum, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Propyl Gallate, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Benzyl Alcohol
About This Product
The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG combines a high concentration of caffeine with EGCG (epigallocatechin gallatyl glucoside), a potent antioxidant from green tea. The formula is designed to visibly reduce puffiness and the appearance of dark circles around the eye area, using caffeine's vasoconstrictive properties alongside oxidized glutathione for additional antioxidant support.