# The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG for sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for sensitive skin.**
Normal Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/sensitive-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Germany.

Brand: [The Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Eye care and eye patches](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/best/eye-creams)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for sensitive skin; other eye cares fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate suitability for your normal skin, as glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide humectant action, while epigallocatechin gallatyl glucoside offers antioxidant effects to support your redness and irritation concerns.
- Caffeine aids in reducing puffiness and dark circles, providing additional benefits for your under-eye area.
- The formulation is safe for your sensitive skin, containing soothing ingredients and avoiding harsh or prohibited substances.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Caffeine, Egcg Epigallocatechin Gallate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Oxidized Glutathione, Glycerin

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Optimized transfersomes loaded with epigallocatechin-3-gallate and hyaluronic acid increased cell viability while reducing lipid peroxidation, intracellular ROS, and MMP expression in HaCaT cells, and exhibited higher skin permeation and deposition compared to plain EGCG. ([Drug Delivery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28155509/))
- Topical application of (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) to human skin before UV irradiation decreases UV-induced production of hydrogen peroxide by 68-90% and nitric oxide by 30-100%, inhibits leukocyte infiltration and lipid peroxidation by 41-84%, and restores glutathione levels and glutathione peroxidase activity compared to UV exposure alone. ([Carcinogenesis, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11181450/))
- A topical cosmetic slimming product containing tetrahydroxypropyl ethylenediamine, caffeine, carnitine, forskolin and retinol significantly reduced body circumferences and improved skin aspect compared with placebo in 78 women over 12 weeks. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21564138/))
- Topical sunscreen formulations containing caffeine combined with UV filters increased in vivo anti-UVB protection by approximately 25% and showed higher SPF values compared to caffeine-free sunscreen, while being well tolerated by the skin of healthy subjects. ([Frontiers in Physiology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31130869/))
- Caffeine gel combined with choline geranate showed high skin permeation capacity and superior clinical results in cellulite treatment compared to caffeine gel without ionic liquid. ([AAPS PharmSciTech, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33796955/))
- Topical green tea extract significantly improved clinical symptoms, tear breakup times, and meibomian gland health compared to standard treatment in patients with dry eye and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. ([Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28384900/))
- Topical low-dose green tea extract reduces UVB-induced p53 expression and apoptosis in human skin keratinocytes compared to placebo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631247/))
- An anti-acne hydrogel containing Aloe barbadensis, Garcinia mangostana, and Camellia sinensis extracts showed superior antiacne and antiblotch activities compared to 1% clindamycin gel in sixty subjects with mild-moderate acne. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- Glutathione amino acid precursors effectively increase cellular glutathione levels, reducing oxidative stress, ATP depletion, and DNA damage in human keratinocytes, clinical subjects, and ex vivo skin compared to controls. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38189670/))
- Topical oxidized glutathione significantly decreases the skin melanin index and improves moisture content, smoothness, wrinkle formation, and elasticity compared to placebo in healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25378941/))
- Topical glutathione improves hyperpigmentation, reduces ultraviolet-induced erythema and wrinkles, decreases transepidermal water loss, and enhances antioxidant capacity. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41416233/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this serum is highly regarded for its affordability and effectiveness in reducing morning puffiness and making eyes appear more awake. While it offers some brightening for tired eyes and has a pleasant lightweight texture, its impact on dark circles is inconsistent, with many users finding it ineffective for pigmentation or hollows. Additionally, a moderate number of users report a drying effect, particularly those with dry skin, who may need to layer with a moisturizer.

- Liked: Reduces puffiness (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Unbeatable value (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Ineffective dark circles (often mentioned)
- Liked: Brightens tired eyes (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Lightweight texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying effect (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Texture issues (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Irritation (rarely noted)

## Questions and answers

### How well does The Ordinary Caffeine Solution work for sensitive skin?

This eye care works for sensitive skin, though other products fit it better. A product of this type needs soothing and hydrating ingredients that effectively calm redness and irritation without any risks, while also keeping the skin soft and smooth.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for sensitive skin?

Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate help keep your sensitive skin hydrated, while epigallocatechin gallatyl glucoside provides antioxidant support against redness. This eye care works for your skin, though an even better fit would require soothing and hydrating ingredients that address redness and irritation safely while keeping the area smooth and firm.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Drug Delivery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28155509/)

### What does Caffeine do for sensitive skin?

Caffeine is unlikely to irritate sensitive skin and helps calm redness by boosting microcirculation and providing antioxidant protection against UV damage. It is generally well tolerated, though sensitive skin types looking for this benefit need formulas with soothing ingredients and without harsh fragrances.
Sources: [Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23075568/), [Frontiers in Physiology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31130869/)

### What does Egcg do for sensitive skin?

EGCG helps calm red and irritated skin by reducing inflammation and protecting against everyday stressors. It is very gentle and is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34585800/), [Photochemistry and Photobiology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10048310/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for sensitive skin?

This serum goes in the evening routine as a treatment step after your soothing toner and before your moisturizer. Sensitive skin needs a product of this type to include calming ingredients that soothe redness and gentle hydrators that keep the under-eye area soft and smooth without harsh additives.

### Can I use this serum with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this serum with retinol by applying the serum first and letting it absorb before putting on your retinol. Sensitive skin needs a gentle eye product with soothing ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, or green tea extract to keep the delicate eye area calm and hydrated while using strong anti-aging treatments.

### How often should I use this serum?

This eye serum works well in an evening routine, where it helps reduce puffiness and dark circles while soothing sensitive skin. To get the best fit for this skin type, a product of this type needs calming ingredients and hydrating components like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate.

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for sensitive skin?

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for sensitive skin, as its safe formula avoids harsh substances. To fit sensitive skin even better, a product of this type needs extra soothing plant extracts and lightweight hydrators to calm redness and keep the eye area smooth.

### Is this serum fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (benzyl alcohol).

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [Perricone MD Vitamin C Ester CCC + Ferulic Brightening Under-Eye Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/perricone-md/vitamin-c-ester-ccc-ferulic-brightening-under-eye-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — €64.80 at Amazon
- [RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/roc/retinol-correxion-line-smoothing-eye-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — €19.99 at Amazon
- [ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Eye Renewal](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/elemis/pro-collagen-eye-renewal/for/sensitive-skin) — Average fit — €42.50 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €39.99 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [SKIN1004 Centella Asiatica Toning Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skin1004/centella-asiatica-toning-toner/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €19.89 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Torriden DIVE-IN Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/torriden/dive-in-mild-sunscreen/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €18.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.de: €8.37 (https://www.amazon.de/dp/B09N6Z61GL?tag=lovi-care-web-product05-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €8.60 (https://www.notino.de/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg-augenserum-gegen-schwellungen-und-augenringe/p-16120312/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Caffeine, Maltodextrin, Glycerin, Propanediol, Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside, Gallyl Glucoside, Sodium Hyaluronate, Oxidized Glutathione, Melanin, Glycine Soja Seed Extract Soybean Seed Extract, Urea, Pentylene Glycol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Xanthan Gum, Lactic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Propyl Gallate, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Benzyl Alcohol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/sensitive-skin