The Caffeine complex is made up of Caffeine, zinc, and niacin:
For stronger, fuller-looking, and healthier-looking hair, daily application of the Caffeine complex is essential to nourish the hair roots effectively.
The effectiveness of Alpecin depends on regular use and the individual condition of the scalp. Additionally, factors such as physical strain, an unhealthy diet (e.g., excessive fast food), environmental toxins, psychosomatic issues, stress, vitamin deficiencies, or occupational factors (e.g., wearing a helmet) can weaken the hair roots.
Alpecin products are specifically designed to address the needs of the male scalp, as reflected in their fragrance and distinctly masculine packaging.
However, the Caffeine active ingredient complex is effective regardless of gender, so Alpecin products can also be used by women with weak hair roots.
Already after 3 month of regular use, hair gets visibly thicker and fuller.
They shampoo should be used daily to ensure best results. Please note the required exposure time of 2 minutes.
Unlike medicinal products, no undesirable side effects are to be expected with regular use. None were found in studies or reported by consumers so far.
Already after 3 month of regular use, hair gets visibly thicker and fuller.
For best results it's essential to apply Caffeine DMG to the scalp daily. Important: Do not rinse out the serum.
Unlike medicinal products, no undesirable side effects are to be expected with regular use. None were found in studies or reported by consumers so far.
Alpecin Caffeine Shampoo C1 must be left on the scalp for at least 2 minutes so that sufficient Caffeine can penetrate to the hair roots and strengthen the hair.
In principle, the Alpecin Caffeine Shampoo C1 is well tolerated. Nevertheless, the longer you leave the shampoo on the scalp, the more intensive the effect of the Caffeine. This, however, may increase the risk of scalp redness especially for sensitive scalps. Therefore, you should pay close attention to how your scalp reacts when you leave the product on longer. Normally, 2 minutes should be enough to stimulate the hair roots.
Alternatively, we recommend using an Alpecin Shampoo for dry or sensitive scalps.
Many years ago, our Head of Laboratory, Dr. Klenk, succeeded in adding caffeine to the Alpecin shampoo. How did this innovation come about? Dr. Klenk explains:
“As with many discoveries, the idea came about almost by accident. Our Alpecin products had long been known as a great solution for healthy hair. Caffeine is well known for its stimulating effects, in coffee for example, and was even on the doping list for a while. So it was worth an experiment if it recharges your hair during washing. I had no idea at the time that this would turn out to be such an impressive and long-lasting success story.”
No, the Caffeine in Alpecin Caffeine Liquid is absorbed through the hair canal and scalp in just the right amount, making it completely safe even for individuals sensitive to Caffeine. Additionally, since the active ingredient is applied directly to the scalp, the amount that enters the rest of the body is minimal and negligible.
Yes, simply wait approximately 3 minutes after massaging in Alpecin Caffeine Liquid to allow it to absorb, and then use your preferred styling product, such as hair gel, wax, or hairspray.
Yes, Alpecin Caffeine Liquid can be applied to dry hair. Use the dosing tip to apply it directly to the scalp and massage it in. Since the liquid penetrates the scalp quickly, you can style your hair as usual afterward. Avoid contact with the eyes, as the alcohol may cause a slight burning sensation that will subside quickly.
Many years ago, our Head of Laboratory, Dr. Klenk, succeeded in adding caffeine to the Alpecin shampoo. How did this innovation come about? Dr. Klenk explains:
“As with many discoveries, the idea came about almost by accident. Our Alpecin products had long been known as a great solution for healthy hair. Caffeine is well known for its stimulating effects, in coffee for example, and was even on the doping list for a while. So it was worth an experiment if it recharges your hair during washing. I had no idea at the time that this would turn out to be such an impressive and long-lasting success story.”
Caffeine can be detected in the hair follicle. Until 2004, the substance was on the World Anti Doping Agency's (WADA) doping list. It is still in the monitoring programme today.
Since you ingest coffee orally, it will first pass through the gastrointestinal organs to be absorbed by the organism at a later time. Subsequently, it is distributed throughout the body and only a tiny quantity reaches the scalp and the hair directly. Even if you drank 50 cups of coffee, it wouldn't provide the hair with enough caffeine to produce the desired result. Thus, a local and direct supply of caffeine to the hair is expedient and necessary.
Yes, allow the hair to dry briefly after application or blow-dry and then style as usual.
The Caffeine Hair Booster should be applied to the entire scalp to supply the hair roots with the Caffeine complex. The easiest way is to apply the hair tonic with the applicator tip along the partings across the entire scalp and then massage it in with your fingertips.
From the very first application, you may notice a slight tingling sensation on your scalp, accompanied by a refreshing feeling. After just a few uses, your hair should feel stronger and have more grip.
Yes, the shampoo is suitable for daily and long-term use. Dandruff and weak hair roots are the two most common scalp issues among men – and both problems are not temporary but persist over time. Thanks to the double effect of anti-dandruff ingredients and Caffeine, the shampoo works simultaneously to get rid of dandruff while also strengthening the hair roots.
By massaging the scalp with Alpecin Double Effect Caffeine Shampoo, the active ingredients are absorbed more effectively into the skin and hair roots, creating a supply that remains active over time. In addition, the gentle pressure helps remove the top layer of dead skin cells more effectively.
Grey Attack MAX is ideal for men who have their first or already slightly more gray hair and want a quick colour result. It is best suited for light brown to black hair as a natural hair color. WARNING: Can cause violet discolouration on white hair.
Yes, Alpecin Grey Attack MAX is suitable for daily hair washing. It reliably removes sebum and dirt from the hair and scalp. No other shampoo needs to be used in addition to cleansing the hair. Important: Leave Grey Attack MAX on for 2-5 minutes – from application to rinsing.
The result depends on the condition and the amount of grey hair. The colour effect develops gradually and can become visible after just 2 weeks of daily use. Important: Leave Grey Attack MAX on for 2-5 minutes – from application to rinsing. The intensity of the colour effect can be increased by the length of the exposure time.
Grey Attack is ideal for men with their first signs of grey hair or slightly grey hair who want a quick colour result. It is best suited for natural hair ranging from light brown to black.
Warning: May cause violet discolouration on white hair.
Yes, Alpecin Grey Attack Shampoo is suitable for daily hair washing. It effectively removes sebum and dirt from the hair and scalp, eliminating the need for an additional shampoo. For best results, leave Grey Attack on for 2–5 minutes from application to rinsing.
The result depends on the condition and amount of grey hair. The colour effect develops gradually and becomes noticeable after 3 weeks of daily use. For optimal results, leave Alpecin Grey Attack Shampoo on the scalp for 2–5 minutes, from application to rinsing. Both the colour effect and Caffeine absorption improve with longer exposure time.
For easiest application, use it in the bathroom in front of a mirror. Twist open the tube and apply the product evenly onto beard or temple hair with the integrated brush applicator. Leave on for 5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with shampoo. After use, close the tube and rinse the brush well with water. You can repeat daily or as needed.
A noticeable darkening can appear after as few as 3 applications. The effect builds gradually and can be adjusted individually via frequency and leave-on time. Use daily or as needed.
It works for all hair colours but performs best on light brown to black hair. As the effect is stepwise darkening, results look especially natural on darker base tones.
Note: On pure white hair, violet discolourations can occur. If undesired colour changes appear, discontinue use.
Alpecin Tuning Shampoo is suitable for dark blonde to black hair. Its intensive pigments help maintain the hair's dark colour while the Caffeine complex strengthens the hair roots.
The dark shade is preserved by the shampoo's pigments, leaving the hair looking darker and fuller. When used early, it can delay the appearance of the first grey hairs. The colour effect is subtle and becomes more pronounced with regular use, but it gradually washes out when a regular shampoo is used. For optimal results, use daily and leave it on for 2–5 minutes before rinsing.
Tuning Shampoo is designed to conceal the first grey hairs or to maintain dark hair's natural colour. However, on lighter-coloured hair, the results may appear less natural. If you want to better conceal grey hair, we recommend using our . Unlike Tuning Shampoo, its active ingredient penetrates the hair and does not wash out.
Yes, Tuning Shampoo is suitable for daily use on dark blonde to black hair. With each application, the colour pigments accumulate, creating a more intense colour effect over time. This effect gradually washes out when a regular shampoo is used. Additionally, the Caffeine complex activates the hair roots, with its effects detectable after just 2 minutes of application.
The Hybrid Sensitive Caffeine Shampoo combines a particularly gentle and moisturising cleansing of the scalp and hair with the powerful effect of Alpecin Caffeine for the hair roots. It has been specially developed for dry and sensitive scalps. Thanks to its moisturising effect, Alpecin Hybrid Sensitive Caffeine Shampoo is particularly suitable for dry scalps that are prone to small, fine flakes. Scalp itching is reduced.
The Caffeine complex also strengthen the hair roots.
More than one in four men experiences a sensitive scalp. Symptoms such as itching, dryness, redness, or a feeling of tightness can occur, depending on individual predisposition. These issues are often linked to dry, sensitive scalps, which may result from underproduction of the sebaceous glands, disrupting the scalp's natural balance.
In such cases, it is crucial to use a shampoo that does not further dry out the scalp. Alpecin Hybrid Sensitive Caffeine Shampoo gently cleanses the hair while moisturising and soothing the scalp. It helps reduce scalp itching and, thanks to its Caffeine complex, strengthens the hair roots.
Many people don’t realise that not all dandruff is the same. To effectively cleanse the scalp and hair and address the issue, it’s important to distinguish between 'dry dandruff' and 'oily dandruff.'
Dr. Wolff has also developed Plantur 21 and Plantur 39, caffeine-based hair care products that are specifically tailored to the needs of the female scalp.
Clinical studies have shown that noticeable improvements in hair strength can be observed after approximately three months of daily use. Over time, the hair also becomes more manageable and resilient.
Since coffee is taken orally, it first passes through the digestive organs and is only absorbed by the body later. The caffeine is then distributed throughout the body, and only a tiny amount reaches the scalp and hair roots. Therefore, local and direct delivery of caffeine to the hair roots is sensible and necessary. Even drinking 50 cups of coffee would not transport enough caffeine to the hair roots.
No, the caffeine in coffee cannot penetrate the scalp or reach the hair follicles. A specialized carrier base (galenic formulation) is required to deliver the active ingredients to the areas where they can be effective.
The specially developed galenic formulation in Alpecin products by Dr. Wolff Research ensures that caffeine is transported to the hair follicles, where it has been proven to stimulate the hair roots.
Animal testing for the assessment of the safety of finished cosmetic products and raw materials is prohibited under the European Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009. Even before this ban came into force, we did not carry out any animal testing in the development of our cosmetic products in order to confirm their eligibility for marketing in the EU. Instead, we assess the tolerability of our formulations on voluntary participants, for example as part of clinical tests or through dermatological institutes.
The easiest way to apply Caffeine Liquid is to use the dosing tip to distribute it directly onto the scalp, parting by parting, and then massage it into the entire scalp. Pay special attention to particularly vulnerable areas, such as the forehead and the back of the head.
Alpecin Caffeine Liquid is a cosmetic product for increasing the productivity of your hair roots, which is of course subject to the provisions of the European Cosmetics Regulation. This means that cosmetics must be free from side effects, and of course Alpecin Caffeine Liquid is no exception.
No, alcohol is not harmful and does not have any negative effects on the hair. In fact, the alcohol in Alpecin ensures quick absorption and helps deliver the active ingredients even through oily skin layers. This is particularly beneficial if you want to use Alpecin daily without washing your hair every day. Water alone cannot achieve this, as it tends to roll off the skin.
Apply Alpecin Caffeine Liquid in the morning and after each hair wash. Use the dosing tip to apply it directly to the towel-dried scalp, then massage it in. Do not rinse it out! Allow the liquid to dry briefly before combing through your hair and styling as usual.
The active ingredient 5,6-DHI in Grey Attack MAX Shampoo can also darken light natural hair colours with a high pheomelanin content or completely white hair. However, the result may appear less natural.
No. Grey Attack MAX Shampoo is not a classic colouring or hair tinting product and does not leave dark spots on the scalp or hands after shampooing.
To avoid discolouration, it is important to rinse the shampoo thoroughly out of the hair. We recommend using dark towels and removing any shampoo residue from surfaces immediately.
After completely drying the hair, no discoloration of clothing or headgear is to be expected - even if the hair gets wet again, e.g. when it rains or sweats.
Alpecin Tuning Shampoo was developed to keep dark hair darker for longer and washes out again with a normal shampoo.
The colour effect of Alpecin Grey Attack MAX Shampoo results in a permanent hair colour that grows out and is particularly suitable for men who want to gradually reduce the grey in their hair without looking dyed.
The shampoo was specially developed for scalp hair. The colour effect can also develop in the beard hair if it is used over a longer period of time and the beard hair grows long enough.
Grey Attack MAX contains a higher concentration of active ingredients and results in a quicker darkening of grey hair compared to Grey Attack.
Alpecin Grey Attack Shampoo helps to darken hair. However, depending on your original hair colour, the result may not meet expectations—for example, if previously blonde hair appears darker.
Warning: May cause violet discolouration on white hair.
If unwanted discolouration occurs, discontinue use immediately.
Alpecin Grey Attack Shampoo is not a traditional colourant and can be used without concern for discolouration. It does not stain the scalp or hands during hair washing.
To prevent discolouration of surfaces such as the shower, washbasin, or towels, ensure that shampoo residues are rinsed off thoroughly. Once the hair has been rinsed and dried, no discolouration is expected.
Use Alpecin Grey Attack Shampoo daily, leaving it on for 2–5 minutes from application to rinsing. The colour effect intensifies with longer application times. Depending on your hair length and initial hair colour, the time it takes for the effect to become visible may vary slightly. Generally, the first results can be seen after 3 weeks of daily use.
Alpecin Tuning Shampoo is ideal for men who do not yet have grey hair or are just beginning to notice a few grey strands and want to conceal them. Its colour effect intensifies with each application but washes out with a normal shampoo, as the colour pigments only adhere to the hair's surface.
In contrast, the colour effect of Alpecin Grey Attack Shampoo is significantly stronger. It contains the active ingredient 5,6-DHI, which reacts with oxygen in the air to form colour pigments within the hair. This gradually darkens grey hair without creating a dyed appearance. Unlike Tuning Shampoo, the colour effect of Grey Attack does not wash out.
Alpecin Grey Attack Shampoo is specifically designed for scalp hair. However, the colour effect can also appear on beard hair if used consistently over a longer period and as the beard hair grows to a sufficient length.
The active 5,6DHI technology enables lasting repigmentation within the hair. The colour does not wash out; it grows out with your hair. Sweat, sports or swimming do not affect the result.
To avoid stains on sink, shower and towels, rinse any splashes from surfaces promptly and wash the product thoroughly out of the hair after the leave-on time. Once rinsed and the hair is completely dry, no discolouration is expected.
Yes. Use the Colour Booster as a targeted add-on on beard/temples and wash the hair on your head as usual. Pairing with a Grey Attack shampoo is ideal.
As with Grey Attack and Grey Attack MAX, the active ingredient 5,6-DHI repigments the hair. However, Grey Attack Beard & Temples is not a shampoo. Its special formula has a higher pH value so that the colour can be optimally absorbed by the hair. That makes the Colour Booster particularly powerful against grey—ideal for beard & temples, where hair is shorter.
The hair on your beard or temples will take up the colour differently depending on its structure. Finer hair can often absorb the colour pigments a bit better and faster than thicker, bristly hair. Visibly less grey hair is possible after just 3 applications.
Yes. After rinsing and fully drying beard/temple hair, style as usual with beard oil, wax or gel. Important: Let the product work for 5 minutes, rinse thoroughly, let hair dry—then style.
Grey Attack Beard & Temples is intended for areas with at least 1 cm hair length—ideal for beard and temples. You can use it on head hair, though for larger areas a Grey Attack shampoo is more practical. It has not been tested on eyebrows. Caution: Avoid contact with eyes.
The colour intensity and Caffeine absorption increase with the exposure time. For best results, leave Tuning Shampoo on the scalp for 2–5 minutes, from application to rinsing. The colour effect develops gradually with regular use and is washed out over time when a regular shampoo is used.
The Caffeine complex in Tuning Shampoo strengthens the hair roots. Daily use ensures the hair roots are supplied with activating Alpecin Caffeine, which can be detected after just 2 minutes of application.
No, this is not possible because the tuning process is very gentle. Alpecin Tuning Shampoo is not a colouring agent or permanent hair dye, so it can be used without concern for discolouration. Neither the scalp nor the hands will become discoloured during hair washing.
To prevent discoloration of surfaces or textiles, ensure that shampoo residues are rinsed off thoroughly.
By starting to use Alpecin Tuning Shampoo early, you can delay the appearance of your first grey hairs. During daily shampooing, powerful colour pigments are deposited on the hair, allowing dark hair to stay dark and concealing the first grey hairs with regular use.
If you already have more noticeable grey hairs, such as on the temples or throughout the main hair, Alpecin Grey Attack Shampoo is a better option. Unlike Alpecin Tuning Shampoo, Grey Attack does not just temporarily cover grey hairs—it gradually darkens them over time for a longer-lasting effect.
Apply the shampoo and leave it on for 2–5 minutes before rinsing. The colour effect intensifies the longer you leave it on. With daily use, the first results are typically visible after approximately 4–5 applications, depending on your natural hair colour.
Alpecin Tuning Shampoo is designed to keep dark hair darker for longer. It is ideal for men who have not yet developed grey hair or have just started noticing a few grey strands and want to conceal them. The colour effect intensifies with each application but washes out with a normal shampoo, as the colour pigments attach only to the surface of the hair.
Alpecin Grey Attack, on the other hand, contains the active ingredient DHI, which reacts with oxygen to allow the colour pigments to penetrate the hair. This Caffeine & Color Shampoo is suitable for men who already have more noticeable grey hair and want to darken it gradually without creating a dyed appearance.
Dry Dandruff
Dry dandruff occurs when the scalp produces too little sebum, causing it to lose its natural balance. This results in small, fine flakes and often an itchy scalp. In such cases, the scalp is dry and flaky.
For a dry scalp, gentle and moisturising cleansing is recommended. Alpecin Hybrid Sensitive Caffeine Shampoo is particularly suitable, thanks to its gentle formulation. It moisturises the scalp and promotes its regeneration.
Oily Dandruff
Oily dandruff tends to be larger, plaque-like flakes and is associated with an oily scalp. For this type of dandruff, Alpecin Double-Effect Caffeine Shampoo is ideal. In the first step, it dissolves encrusted horny cells and thoroughly removes dandruff from the scalp. The effective anti-dandruff ingredients, salicylic acid and piroctone olamine, prevent the formation of new dandruff. In the second step, the Caffeine complex penetrates the hair roots to strengthen the hair.
Dry dandruff is caused by a dry scalp. These small, fine flakes appear when the scalp produces insufficient sebum, disrupting its natural balance. This leads to a dry, flaky scalp, often accompanied by itching.
For a dry scalp, gentle and moisturizing cleansing is recommended. Alpecin Hybrid Sensitive Caffeine Shampoo is particularly effective due to its gentle formulation. It moisturizes the scalp and supports its regeneration.
The two shampoos are designed to address different scalp conditions. When choosing a shampoo for dandruff, it’s important to understand that not all dandruff is the same. Differentiating between 'oily dandruff' and 'dry dandruff' is key to selecting the right product for cleansing your hair and scalp.
Alpecin Double-Effect Caffeine Shampoo
This shampoo is formulated for oily dandruff, which consists of larger, plaque-like flakes caused by a greasy scalp. In the first step, Alpecin Double-Effect Caffeine Shampoo loosens crusted cells from the horny layer and thoroughly removes dandruff from the scalp. The effective anti-dandruff ingredients, salicylic acid and piroctone olamine, help prevent the formation of new dandruff. In the second step, the Caffeine complex penetrates the hair roots to strengthen the hair.
Alpecin Hybrid Sensitive Caffeine Shampoo
This shampoo is ideal for a dry scalp prone to 'dry dandruff,' which manifests as small, fine flakes often accompanied by itching. The gentle formula of Alpecin Hybrid Sensitive Caffeine Shampoo moisturises the dry, weakened scalp and supports its regeneration, effectively preventing dry dandruff and relieving itchiness. At the same time, the Caffeine complex energizes the hair roots and promotes stronger hair.
