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

**Lovi Fit: High fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

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

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for combination skin; a few eye cares fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent reduction of puffiness and dark circles for your combination skin, as caffeine and epigallocatechin gallatyl glucoside provide potent antioxidant and vasoconstrictive effects to combat visible fatigue.
- This formula also offers moderate benefits for oily shine by reducing its appearance, complementing your skin's needs.
- The product is safe for your combination skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

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

## 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

### What makes The Ordinary Caffeine Solution a great fit for combination skin?

This eye care is a great fit because caffeine and epigallocatechin gallatyl glucoside help reduce puffiness and dark circles by targeting visible fatigue. It also helps control oily shine while remaining safe and gentle on your combination skin.
Sources: [Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23075568/)

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

Caffeine and epigallocatechin gallatyl glucoside make this serum a great fit by reducing puffiness and dark circles with powerful antioxidants and tightening effects. Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate also support the skin by keeping it balanced and hydrated without feeling heavy.
Sources: [Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23075568/)

### What does Caffeine do for combination skin?

Topical caffeine helps combination skin by protecting cells against UV radiation with antioxidant properties and increasing skin microcirculation. It is generally well tolerated and may also help prevent excessive fat accumulation in oil-prone areas.
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 combination skin?

EGCG helps calm oily areas and keeps combination skin balanced by reducing redness and breakouts. Studies show it targets the causes of acne and supports overall skin health, making it a great addition to your routine.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23096708/), [Phytotherapy Research, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32812270/)

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

This serum goes in the evening routine as a treatment step, applied after cleansing and before moisturizing. It is safe for combination skin and is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23075568/)

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying the caffeine serum first and following it with your retinol treatment. This combination is unlikely to cause irritation because the formula lacks harsh ingredients while helping to smooth and refresh your combination skin.
Sources: [Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23075568/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This serum is a great fit for your combination skin and is safe to use daily. It helps reduce puffiness and dark circles while also managing oily shine.
Sources: [Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23075568/)

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

This eye serum is unlikely to clog pores, cause breakouts, or lead to purging on combination skin. Its lightweight formula is safe for your skin type and lacks harsh ingredients that typically cause irritation or blocked pores.
Sources: [Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23075568/)

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

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

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Purito Centella Unscented Eye Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/purito/centella-unscented-eye-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €16.50 at Amazon
- [SKIN1004 Probio-Cica Bakuchiol Eye Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skin1004/probio-cica-bakuchiol-eye-cream/for/combination-skin) — High fit — €14.59 at Amazon
- [COSRX Advanced Snail Peptide Eye Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-peptide-eye-cream/for/combination-skin) — High fit — €25.69 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Dr. Althea Amino Acid Gentle Bubble Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/dr-althea/amino-acid-gentle-bubble-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €13.50 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €103.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €18.47 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.it: €8.09 (https://www.amazon.it/dp/B09N6Z61GL?tag=lovi-care-web-product09-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €9.40 (https://www.notino.it/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg-siero-occhi-contro-gonfiori-e-occhiaie/p-16120312/)
- Lookfantastic: €9.66 (https://www.lookfantastic.it/p/the-ordinary-caffeine-solution-5-egcg-depuffing-and-brightening-eye-serum-30ml/11396686/)
Prices checked 16 Oct – 5 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/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/caffeine-solution-5-egcg/for/combination-skin