Organic and fairtrade coffee, grown by women
Coffee is a great source of polyphenols, which supplies a large number of antioxidants to our skin(1). In fact, a recent study showed coffee to be the number 1 source of antioxidants in the American diet. These polyphenols fight free radicals and UV damage(2)(3), which causes our skin to age. Coffee can suppress UV damage so much so, that it can even prevent UV induced cancer when applied topically(4). Studies show topical application of ground coffee significantly reduce wrinkle formation(5), help increase collagen content and decrease pigmentation. (6)
It’s anti inflammatory properties also help to treat inflammatory skin diseases, such as dermatitis and psoriasis.
Coffee’s caffeine content plays a big part in the overall skincare benefits. As it stimulates blood flow, your nutrient rich blood delivers these nutrients and oxygen your skin more effectively, whilst carrying away waste products and increasing cell regeneration. Think of it as cleansing the skin from the inside.
You should notice your skin looking more vibrant, firm and even toned, as well as a reduction of any cellulite!(7)
It’s ability to constrict blood vessels also work to reduce redness, particularly rosacea.
Why grown by women? In some regions women can find it hard, if not impossible, to legally own land. Allowing the women (who do 70% of the work on farms in most cases) to earn their own wage promotes gender justice in an embedded culture. We buy organic and fairtrade coffee from Equal Exchange, and grind them fresh every batch.
(1) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20509719
(2) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27344635
(3) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26755411
(4) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25104643
(5) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27195822
