How to Use Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG Eye Serum

By The Ordinary | Clinical Formulations with Integrity | Published: 2026-10-25

Category: How-to Guides

Learn the correct way to apply The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG Eye Serum to reduce under-eye puffiness. Step-by-step tips for morning and night use.

Quick Answer

Use The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG Eye Serum in your morning or nighttime routine: apply a small drop to clean, dry under-eyes, gently tap in, and follow with moisturizer.

Why This Serum Works for Puffiness

Puffiness around the eyes is often caused by fluid retention or lack of sleep. Caffeine is a well-known vasoconstrictor that can help tighten the skin temporarily, reducing the appearance of bags. The addition of EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) from green tea provides antioxidant support, which may help calm the skin and protect against environmental stress.

The lightweight serum texture absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue, making it suitable for layering under makeup or other treatments. Because it targets puffiness specifically, it is not a replacement for an eye cream that addresses dark circles or fine lines.

When to Apply

Use once or twice daily. Many people find it most effective in the morning to depuff tired eyes before starting the day. If you experience persistent puffiness, you can also apply it at night after cleansing. Avoid using more than twice a day to prevent irritation.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Step 1: Cleanse and Dry the Eye Area: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat the skin around your eyes completely dry. The serum works best on clean, dry skin because water can dilute the active ingredients and reduce effectiveness. Do not apply to wet skin—it can cause stinging and reduce the depuffing effect.
Step 2: Dispense a Tiny Amount: Squeeze the dropper to release one small drop (about the size of a grain of rice) onto your fingertip. You do not need more; the product spreads easily and using too much can cause irritation or pilling. One drop per eye is enough. More product does not mean faster results.
Step 3: Apply to the Under-Eye Area: Gently tap the serum onto the orbital bone (the bony ridge under your eye) using your ring finger. Avoid pulling or dragging the skin. Do not apply directly to the eyelid or lash line unless you have been advised to do so by a professional. Keep the product on the under-eye area only—it is not formulated for the eyelid.
Step 4: Let It Absorb Before Layering: Wait 30–60 seconds for the serum to fully absorb. You should feel the skin become slightly tighter or drier. Then apply your usual moisturizer or eye cream. If you use a vitamin C or retinol product, apply them before this serum. Layering too quickly can prevent absorption and reduce the depuffing effect.
Step 5: Use Sunscreen in the Morning: If you use this serum in your AM routine, always follow with a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+). The serum does not contain sun protection, and the under-eye area is especially sensitive to UV damage. Sunscreen is non-negotiable when using any active serum during the day.

Product Facts

Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG Eye Serum: The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG Eye Serum is a depuffing solution formulated for tired eyes. It targets puffiness specifically, so you know exactly what problem this product is designed to solve.
Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG Eye Serum