Tired of puffy eyes and dark circles that just won’t go away? This gentle, plant-based serum harnesses the power of caffeine and cannabis to naturally reduce swelling, brighten the under-eye area, and soothe delicate skin, giving you a refreshed, well-rested glow.
Table of Contents
- Recipe Features
- Why This Recipe Works
- DIY CBD Caffeine Eye Serum Recipe
- What You Will Need
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Why This Process Works
- Updated Recipe Notes
- Why Caffeine & Cannabis Are Great For Eyes
- Additional Factors to Consider
- Notes & Expert Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Why This Serum Belongs in Your Routine
- Topicals You Will Love
Recipe Features
- Highly Customizable: You can choose your preferred cannabis source, CBD oil, infused coconut oil, or FECO.
- Dual-Action Relief: Caffeine works to constrict blood vessels to reduce puffiness, while cannabis helps soothe inflammation.
- Want to skip the hard work? Shop with me and have premium, high-quality cannabis products delivered directly to your door! Now shipping across the US.
Why This Recipe Works
There’s something truly empowering about taking charge of your own skincare routine, and I’ll admit, I was skeptical the first time I tried using coffee grounds, could they really make a difference?
The answer was a resounding yes. This recipe is simple but so effective: you don’t need any special equipment or heat, just a bit of patience while your oil infuses.
The result is a luxurious, golden oil that smells like a vanilla latte and feels silky smooth on your skin. It’s a perfect fit for a holistic lifestyle, offering you the freedom to use high-CBD hemp flower for inflammation or a THC-rich strain for targeted relief.
With this approach, you’re truly harnessing the full power of the plant to nourish your body from the outside in. Let’s get started!
DIY CBD Caffeine Eye Serum
Ingredients
- ½ cup ground coffee
- ½ cup sweet almond oil
- 1 Tablespoon Vitamin E oil
Cannabis Infusion (Choose ONE):
- 1 teaspoon CBD oil
- 1 teaspoon cannabis-infused coconut oil
- 0.5 grams FECO or RSO Dissolved into the almond oil for a potent option.
Instructions
For the Infusion
- Place the ½ cup (45g) of ground coffee into your clean mason jar. Pour the ½ cup (120ml) of sweet almond oil over the grounds. Ensure all grounds are submerged.
- Seal the jar tightly. Place it in a cool, dark cupboard for 4 to 5 days. This cold-infusion method preserves the delicate antioxidants in the coffee. Shake the jar gently once a day if you remember.
- After 5 days, place a few layers of cheesecloth over a clean bowl or jar. Pour the coffee mixture through the cloth.
- Gather the corners of the cheesecloth and squeeze firmly to extract as much oil as possible. Note: Don't worry if a little sediment remains, but try to keep it minimal.
For the Serum
- To your strained coffee oil, add the 1 Tablespoon (15ml) of the Vitamin E oil.
- Add your chosen cannabis element (CBD oil, melted cannabis coconut oil, or FECO). Stir vigorously until the mixture is completely uniform.
- Use a small funnel to pour your serum into glass roller bottles.
- Keep in a cool, dark place. For an extra cooling effect, store it in the refrigerator!
Notes
SAVE THIS GUIDE 💌
Don’t lose your spot! Let me email this post to you so you can come back to it time and time again!
What You Will Need
Equipment:
- A mason jar with a lid
- Cheesecloth for straining
- A glass bottle with a dropper or roller-ball tip for storage
Ingredients:
- ½ cup (45g) Ground Coffee: Any caffeinated coffee works; light roasts often have slightly higher caffeine content.
- ½ cup (120ml) Sweet Almond Oil: A lightweight carrier oil that absorbs quickly.
- 1 Tablespoon (15ml) Vitamin E Oil: For deep hydration and Vitamin E.
- Cannabis Infusion, Choose ONE:
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) CBD Oil: Easy to mix in and non-intoxicating.
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) Cannabis-Infused Coconut Oil: Melted gently if solid.
- 1mL FECO or RSO: Dissolved into the oil for a potent option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This step-by-step guide will walk you through creating your caffeine and CBD serum. It’s easier than you might think, and you may even find the process meditative!
- Prepare the Infusion: Place the ½ cup (45g) of ground coffee into your clean mason jar. Pour the ½ cup (120ml) of sweet almond oil over the grounds. Ensure all grounds are submerged.
- Let it Steep: Seal the jar tightly. Place it in a cool, dark cupboard for 4 to 5 days. This cold-infusion method preserves the delicate antioxidants in the coffee. Shake the jar gently once a day if you remember.
- Strain the Oil: After 5 days, place a few layers of cheesecloth over a clean bowl or jar. Pour the coffee mixture through the cloth.
- Squeeze: Gather the corners of the cheesecloth and squeeze firmly to extract as much oil as possible. Note: Don’t worry if a little sediment remains, but try to keep it minimal.
- Add the Actives: To your strained coffee oil, add the 1 tablespoon (15ml) of vitamin E oil.
- Infuse with Cannabis: Add your chosen cannabis element (CBD oil, melted cannabis coconut oil, or FECO). Stir vigorously until the mixture is completely uniform.
- Bottle: Use a small funnel to pour your serum into amber glass bottles. A roller bottle with a metal tip is perfect for this recipe.
- Store: Keep in a cool, dark place. For an extra cooling effect, store it in the refrigerator!
Why This Process Works
- Cold Infusion: We use a cold infusion method for the coffee. While you can heat the oil to speed this up, I find that heat can sometimes give the oil a “burnt” coffee smell. Patience pays off here with a fresh, bright aroma.
- Straining: This is the most critical step. You want to ensure you get the oil out without getting gritty coffee grounds in your serum. If you notice sediment at the bottom of your final bottle, just leave the last few drops in the bottle when you use it.
- Emulsifying: Because we are mixing oils with oils (Almond + Vitamin E + Cannabis Oil), they blend easily. No heating or vigorous whisking is required, just a good stir.
Updated Recipe Notes
This caffeine eye serum recipe has been shared and tested like crazy and it’s been interesting to see the response. Some of you absolutely love it, while some of you have had disappointing results.
Here’s what we’ve learned, dears!
- The way the serum turns out varies drastically depending on the type of coffee used.
- Ashlynn reminded us that “the difference between dark and light roast is caffeine content. Get a light roasted coffee for the most caffeine content!”
- If you don’t strain it enough, you’ll end up with coffee dust in your serum, which marks your skin and defeats the entire purpose of the serum.
Why Caffeine & Cannabis Are Great For Eyes
When I started researching natural skincare, I learned that dark circles are often caused by oxygenated blood pooling beneath the eyes. Because the skin there is so thin, this blood shows through as dark shadows.
Caffeine is a vasoconstrictor. When applied topically, it can help shrink those blood vessels and boost circulation, effectively “waking up” the skin and reducing the appearance of dark circles.
Cannabis, on the other hand, is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. Puffiness is essentially inflammation. By applying cannabinoids like CBD or THC topically, we are signaling the Endocannabinoid System in our skin to calm down and reduce swelling.
Together, they form the perfect morning duo: one to tighten and brighten, the other to soothe and smooth.
How to Use Your Eye Serum
- Use a small drop (or two) under each eye whenever needed—either first thing in the morning or even at bedtime.
- To apply, use your ring finger, as it’s gentle on the delicate under-eye skin. Gently dab (don’t rub!) the serum in until absorbed.
- If you opted for a roller-ball applicator, roll lightly under each eye for a cooling, soothing sensation.
Additional Factors to Consider
- Coffee Roast: Light roast coffee beans actually have slightly more caffeine than dark roast beans. If you want a more potent serum, opt for a light roast (often labeled as “breakfast blend”).
- Shelf Life: Since this recipe contains no water, it is relatively shelf-stable. However, oils can go rancid over time. It is best used within 6 months.
- Sensitivity: The eye area is extremely sensitive. Always do a patch test on your inner arm before applying any new product to your face, especially if you are using essential oils like vanilla.
Notes & Expert Tips
- The “Coffee Dust” Dilemma: If you don’t strain your oil well enough, you might end up with fine coffee dust in your serum. This can look like dark smudges on your skin, defeating the purpose of brightening! If this happens, let your oil sit undisturbed for 24 hours so the sediment settles to the bottom, then carefully pour the clear oil off the top into a fresh bottle.
- Chill It: I highly recommend keeping this serum in the fridge. The cold temperature constricts blood vessels immediately upon contact, amplifying the effects of the caffeine.
- Leftovers: Don’t throw away those oil-soaked coffee grounds! Mix them with a little sugar for an instant, moisturizing hand and body scrub.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Topical application of cannabis, even THC-rich cannabis, does not enter the bloodstream effectively enough to cause intoxicating effects. You can use this serum safely as part of your morning routine.
Yes, but you will need to melt it first. Since this recipe uses mostly almond oil (which is liquid), a small amount of coconut oil should stay relatively liquid or soft once mixed in. If it solidifies in the fridge, the warmth of your finger will melt it instantly upon contact.
I use a small drop under each eye every morning. Use your ring finger to gently dab (never rub!) the oil into the skin until absorbed.
No. Instant coffee is water-soluble and will not infuse properly into the oil. Stick to regular ground coffee beans.
Why This Serum Belongs in Your Routine
There’s something truly indulgent about crafting your own skincare solution from scratch, especially when it involves ingredients that work harder than you thought possible.
SAVE THIS GUIDE 💌
Don't lose your spot! Let me email this post to you so you can come back to it time and time again!
With caffeine to boost circulation and nourishing oils to hydrate, this serum is an instant upgrade for your under-eye routine.
Take it as a moment of self-care, love, and appreciation for yourself. After all, your eyes deserve it!
Looking for more cannabis-inspired self-care recipes and tips? Subscribe to our blog and stay updated on how to elevate your wellness routine! 🌿
Topicals You Will Love
Cannabis Topicals
Easy Homemade Cannabis Salve Recipe
Cannabis Topicals
Glowing CBD Oil Face Serum Recipe
Cannabis Topicals
How to Make a Basic Cannabis-Infused Balm
Cannabis Topicals
Homemade Cannabis-Infused Massage Oil
Cannabis Topicals
How to Make Cannabis-Infused Vapor Rub
Cannabis Topicals
I wish I had seen Ashlynn’s post about using a light roast. I just made mine with dark roast. The serum is dark. Can I add more avacado oil to lighten it or will that weaken the caffiene too much. When I rubbed a small amount on the back of my hand it left my skin a little darker so that will defeat the purpose of the eye serum. It smells wonderful! The scent alone will wake me up in the mornings. Lol Thank you for your time.
It should still work! I am surprised it darkened your skin, you must have a very potent infusion! You could add more carrier oil OR use the serum right away when you wake up, then wipe away any residue 15 minutes later. The oils (+ caffeine!) should sink in by then.
Thank you for the great idea. After sitting a couple of days it kinda separated so I have been using what was on top. I’ll mix it and then wipe off the extra after a few minutes.
I made mine with a medium-dark organic roast and after straining mine in 4 layers of cheese cloth it was still dark but testing it out I didn’t notice it leave a dark coating at all. I figured if it does, I’ll just wait like Kylie said then ripe any residuals off. 🙂 Super excited to see how this works – been battling bags under my eyes, one more than the other since allergies have been so bad this season & a tad bit of sleep loss maybe as well as not drinking enough water (all three are top causes for those pesky bags).
Can’t wait to hear how it works for you, Laura!
I also made mine today…not sure if I got it all squeezed out, but I definitely have serum that “looks” like coffee…i.e., very dark. I would guess adding more carrier oil would lighten, but wonder if it would “weaken” the caffeine effect.
Try it both ways, maybe? Would love to hear how it goes for you!
This looks so awesome! Just remember that coffee comes in different roasts and the difference between dark and light roast is caffeine content. Get a light roasted coffee for the most caffeine content! =) Happy DIY’s!
Great tip, Ashlynn ~ thanks!
My coffee and oil mixture sat for 4 days and I went to strain it and nothing came out.. Did I not add enough oil? Do you mix the oil in with the coffee or just enogh to have a small later on top? Thanks!
That is so interesting! Was it in an airtight container? I wonder if some coffees are more “absorbent” too! LOL. If I were you, I would try again with a different coffee or add more oil.
Any specific coffee? And what does it mean by chess cloth ?
I had the same problem! It is still sitting on my counter. I Don’t want to give up on it yet. Any secret strategies for the squeeze??
Same thing happeened to me. I used plastic wrap. I guess it needs to be air tight. Disappointed. I also may have had it sit 6days. I was looking for he avocado oil 🙂 Might just use as a body scrub instead. I hate to waste…
This was a complete waste of coffee grounds, really expensive organic oil (I used argan oil), and time. The oil absorbed all the coffee and no matter how much I squeezed, all I got was coffee stained cheesecloth and some oil residue on my hands. Can someone please tell me why this didn’t work as written?
What a bummer! Argan oil is a light, thin oil that would be more easily absorbed by the coffee grounds. If you try again, it would be good to infuse a thick oil like avocado or jojoba with coffee, then add the argan oil after straining the coffee grounds out. I am sure that will work better for you! Best wishes.
What should we use as a substitute of avocado oil ?
Any carrier oil would really work. Some people have used castor oil for this recipe with great results. 🙂
Ohhkk!
I will try it fr sure..
Thank uh!
Omg this is amazing! I am so trying this, thank you!
Wow! Great post! Extremely interesting and informative! Keep up the good work!
Xo- Erin
Love this! I have the WORST under-eye bags! Do you know of any products I can buy that will work just as well?
I offer this serum in my shop! 🙂
http://everblossom.net/product/caffeine-eye-serum-perk
If you prefer a cream, 100% Pure’s Coffee Bean Eye Cream is the bee’s knees. 🙂
http://everblossom.net/CoffeeBeanEyeCream
Update: Marcie, try castor oil – a friend suggested it as an aloe substitute. Best of luck!
I’ll have to try castor. Thanks =)
Hi Marcie – You can leave the aloe out but I’m not sure what would make a good replacement. The aloe is a pretty important ingredient, so let me know how it works if you try it without!
i didnt see in the recipe any were that it called for a;oe oil?
Your ingredients above did not include any aloe. Did you mean to say avocado, or did you forget to include aloe in your list of ingredients? I’m confused.
This is great! I made coffee ground scrub for my kids Eczema when it gets hot and inflamed. This idea is similar to that theory – to reduce inflammation! Thx for the recipe! And yes, using it COLD would definitely be great! And I always use the ring finger for around the eyes too!
Great idea!
what preservative can I add to make it last longer without the refrigerator??
A preservative isn’t needed, especially if you keep it in a cool, dark, dry place and make sure that water isn’t ever accidentally introduced.
Would this work as a balm? Could I maybe make the serum, then add coconut oil and/or some shea butter and refrigerate to keep it solid?
Sounds like a great idea! I wouldn’t add a butter to this finished product, since it might become too diluted to be effective. Just replace some of the avocado oil with shea butter or coconut oil. Let me know how it goes!
What if I mix the coffee with coconut or castor oil or petroleum, because those are the stuff I always have in hand?
petrolatum* lol 😀
A warm infusion with coconut oil would work. Use a double boiler to warm the coffee grounds and coconut oil on the LOWEST heat possible. About 5 minutes would be fine, then just let it sit right on the stove until it’s cool enough to strain.
Coconut oil is not a good idea to use under the eyes as it causes milias to form, which are those little white heads, and the skin around the eyes is prone to developing them.
If you are going to use coconut oil on your face it should be “Fractionated”, also known as “100% MCT OIL” otherwise it clogs the pores.
Is there anything that can be substituted for the avocado oil? My local health store doesn’t have any in at the moment
Hey Ella! Pretty much any carrier oil would work. I chose avocado for its anti-aging properties, but you could easily just use more sweet almond oil.
I found Avocado Oil at Walmart with the cooking oil. I can’t wait to try this. Thanks!!
Can I substitute grape seed oil for the sweet almond oil? I have a tree nut allergy. I’ve wanted to try this!
Certainly!
This looks like a really cool idea – never heard of caffeine helping with dark circles but will need to try this…
A lot of the over the counter stuff for eye bags and darkness has caffeine as their active ingredient, however, they also include quite a bit of chemicals I wouldn’t want to put on my face let alone that close to my eyes.
What would be the shelf life of this dark circles serum?
Do we need a preservative to keep it for long?
Could I use pure vanilla extract??
Unfortunately not. The vanilla extract wouldn’t mix with the oils in this recipe.
I need to make like a gallon of this stuff!! No matter how much sleep I get, I still always look like I’ve not slept in months!
Give it a try!
If it’s a chronic issue, though, there might be something else you need to address. Brittany just told me that dark circles can be a sign of food allergies, too.
I made a similar concoction using coconut oil and grape seed oil but instead of cheesecloth, I put the coffee in a sachet bag and put in a jar with the oil to infuse it.
Wonderful idea.
I need this right now for my big dark circles. This sounds promising 🙂 Thank you.
That is too smart. Thank you for the tip!
Omg I know this is an old post but I can’t believe I didn’t think about using a sachet….I tried this recipe as written and I couldn’t get any of the oil out. The coffee grounds had become completely saturated and squeezing of the cheesecloth just left me with coffee stained hands and no serum. Thank you so much for this idea!!
This is so cool – I have to try it – I have always made my own remedies because i have so many allergies; and i don’t like the crap and chemicals put in even what is supposed to be the safest products – plus there is the ridiculous cost. My doctor finally told me about the ‘hereditary’ thing – I got so tired of people always suggesting i wear makeup – which makes it worse! I’ve just invested in some glycerine, castile, vitamin E and aloe and have made my own soap and body lotion – but still have a mystery for my face and eyes! Thank you for this! I wonder if it would work with Virgin Olive oil?
Yes!
Hi 😄 I made this serum…minus the avocado oil…only because I forgot. For that matter it infused for 10 days lol because I would remember then forget immediately…this brew has been LIFE CHANGING!!!! I apply a few drops after taking my make up off…let my skin rest…then a few drops before bed…then a few drops before makeup in the morning…a perfect primer…I end up with a dewey look all day. Make up is less and smooths beautifully.I was told today from a friend I have known for years that I am looking soooo young…and I recently turned 44!! My face had turned very old due to excessive smoking and drinking…never thought I could regain my youth…but this serum literally has taken at least 5 years off my appearance. I know a lot of ladies in my community that could benefit from this…so I’m making up small batches for these ladies so they can learn the art of learning to love their skin again.THANK YOU SOOOOO MUCH…It’s an amazing feeling to be able to get up in the morning and leave the house feeling beautiful 🌺🌺🌺