Caffeine counteracts the negative effects of testosterone

Conducted at the Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf

Summary

This study conducted at the University of Hamburg demonstrated that caffeine can effectively mitigate the harmful effects of testosterone on the skin barrier by reducing transepidermal water loss and increasing the cell division rate of keratinocytes. This makes the skin more resistant to external influences and enhances its regenerative capacity.

Method

With the help of a skin model, the impact of testosterone was researched at the University of Hamburg. Using different biological parameters, the condition of healthy skin that came in contact with testosterone (normal physiological concentration of 5 ng/ml) was assessed.

Results

Microscopic image of the skin: Left shows intact skin barrier preventing Nile red penetration; Right shows Nile red penetrating skin layer weakened by testosterone. — Mikroskopische Aufnahme der Haut Links: Intakte Hautbarriere verhindert Eindringen von Nil-Rot Rechts: Durch die vom Testosteron geschwächte Hautschicht dringt Nil-Rot ein

Testosterone damages the natural skin barrier: Under the influence of testosterone, it becomes increasingly difficult for the skin to retain its moisture. The "transepidermal water loss" rises significantly.
Testosterone makes the skin permeable: Using a special indicator, "Nile red," it was measured whether substances can penetrate the skin. The photo shows: On unaffected skin, the red stays outside. Skin weakened by testosterone allows Nile red to penetrate.
Testosterone weakens the skin's regenerative ability: The measurement of keratinocyte activity showed that cell division is significantly reduced by testosterone.

Caffeine restores the skin barrier

Graph of moisture loss over five days. Red squares show increased loss by testosterone; green triangles show caffeine reduces loss; blue squares show normal.

Caffeine was then applied to the testosterone-stressed skin model. The "transepidermal water loss" was brought back to normal levels despite the hormonal attack. The harmful influence of testosterone was practically completely neutralised.

Caffeine enhances the skin's regenerative ability

Bar chart shows keratinocyte activity: normal high, reduced with caffeine, and lowest without caffeine. Testosterone influences all conditions.

The graphic illustrates: Cell division is significantly activated by the applied caffeine.

Conclusion

Caffeine is an excellent protection against the harmful effects of testosterone on the skin. With regular application, the skin barrier remains functional, and the cell regeneration of keratinocytes is strengthened.

Source

Brandner JM, Behne MJ, Huesing B, Moll I. (2006): Caffeine improves barrier function in male skin. Int J Cosmet Sci.;28(5):343-7.