The truth about the effects of caffeine on pigmentation procedures
Facts and fiction
The successful execution of a Powder Brows procedure begins with adequate preparation and concludes with diligent aftercare. A topic of frequent discussion and confusion pertains to the intake of caffeinated drinks prior to this permanent makeup (PMU) process. In this discussion, we address frequently raised queries regarding the consumption of coffee before and after undergoing the Powder Brows procedure, and delve into its potential impacts on the treatment, as always based on facts from our decades of experience and science.
“While captivating images or videos featuring artists expressing exaggerated shock over a client having consumed a cup of coffee before a procedure, complete with cotton swabs drenched in red lip pigment to mimic heavy bleeding, may serve as intriguing marketing material, the actual influence of caffeine on the outcome of the procedure and subsequent healing process is, in reality, quite minimal.”
Is Coffee Consumption Advisable Prior to Powder Brows Procedure?
The succinct response to this query is, preferably not. It is commonly recommended to avoid the intake of coffee, and other caffeine-laden beverages (such as colas, string tea, energy drinks, or diverse types of tea) prior to the Powder Brows procedure, or indeed any PMU process. However, one should always be aware of the actual effects of caffeine. It may not be professional to serve the client coffee before the procedure, however, it would be equally unprofessional to exaggerate the potential effects of caffeine based on ignorance of pseudo-science. Let us look at the facts.
What do artists claim about the effects of caffeine on the procedure?
The Powder Brows technique involves the penetration of the skin to embed pigments that define the desired eyebrow shape. Let's delve into how the intake of coffee before a Powder Brows treatment can influence the procedure and subsequent healing.
Thinned blood
Many artists say that caffeine can act as a mild blood thinner. While it's not as potent as some prescription medications or supplements (such as aspirin or fish oil), it could potentially contribute to increased bleeding during the procedure. More bleeding could result in less pigment retention and may also increase the chances of swelling and bruising. That is what the artists claim, however when it comes to scientific studies, the situation is somewhat different.
Heightened Skin Sensitivity
Caffeine can heighten sensitivity and potentially alter pain perception, which might make the procedure more uncomfortable for some clients. Though individual skin sensitivity and pain tolerance levels vary, PMU procedures, including Powder Brows, typically induce some degree of discomfort. Thus caffeine can render the skin more reactive, potentially lowering the pain threshold to a certain extent. However, in case of numbing cream is used, the difference in pain level experience is very hard to detect.
Increased Bleeding During the Procedure
Some artists claim that caffeine-induced expansion of blood vessels can enhance blood flow to the skin. This heightened circulation can potentially lead to excessive bleeding during the procedure, which can complicate the uniform deposition of pigment, create a messy working environment, and hinder the visual clarity of the treatment area, thereby compromising the quality of the outcome.
Anxiety and Nervousness
Caffeine is known to trigger anxiety and nervousness in some individuals, which could lead to increased discomfort and tension during the procedure. However, as also the other effects listed here, it is highly individual.
Impeded Healing Rate
Although not directly tied to caffeine, hydration is important for healing, and consuming large amounts of caffeine can lead to dehydration if water intake isn't increased accordingly. Dehydration can potentially slow the healing process. Extended healing times imply that the skin disruptions caused during the procedure remain open for longer, raising the risk of infection. Moreover, proper scabbing and closure of these disruptions are vital for optimal results.
What is the actual scientific truth?
When it comes to caffeine intake, the notion that it would make blood "thinner" is unfounded. Simply put, this is not how caffeine affects the body. Let's explore this in detail:
Effect of Caffeine on Blood Vessels
Caffeine, as a stimulant, primarily induces vasoconstrictive effects, meaning it narrows the blood vessels rather than expands them. This slight contraction could theoretically result in a temporary increase in blood pressure. However, this effect can vary among individuals and is especially dependent on their regular caffeine intake. If a person habitually consumes coffee and does not substantially increase their caffeine intake on the day of the procedure, it is challenging to argue that their blood vessels would contract significantly during the treatment.
Effect on Blood Pressure
Caffeine has the potential to cause a short-lived increase in blood pressure, particularly in individuals who aren't regular consumers. For habitual caffeine drinkers, the impact on blood pressure is less evident, with some studies suggesting that tolerance may develop over time. Hence, it is far-fetched to suggest that ordinary habitual coffee drinking would result in a significant increase in blood pressure during the procedure.
Effect on Blood Thickness (Viscosity)
Unlike certain drugs (e.g., aspirin), caffeine does not have a direct impact on blood thickness or clotting. While some studies suggest caffeine might have a minor influence on platelet function, the evidence is not conclusive, and further research is needed. Caffeine's primary cardiovascular effects pertain more to heart rate and blood pressure rather than altering the physical characteristics of the blood itself.
In conclusion, caffeine is a stimulant that can influence heart rate, blood pressure, and blood vessel diameter to some degree. Notably, if a person is a heavy habitual coffee drinker and suddenly stops intake before the procedure, their physiological response may be more unpredictable compared to maintaining their regular caffeine intake on the day of the procedure. Therefore, moderate, regular caffeine consumption without abrupt changes might be a more balanced approach to preparing for the procedure.