Antioxidant

Coffea Arabica Leaf Cell Extract

INCI: COFFEA ARABICA LEAF CELL EXTRACT

Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 14 Aug 2026

Also known as: Coffea Arabica Leaf Cell Extract

A plant-derived antioxidant with emerging evidence for skin repair and cellular renewal

Best For Skin Types

All, Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Mature

Addresses

Fine lines, Dullness, Sensitivity

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is Coffea Arabica Leaf Cell Extract?

Coffea arabica leaf cell extract is derived from the leaves of the arabica coffee plant. Unlike coffee seed extract (which comes from coffee beans), this ingredient is obtained from the plant's leaf tissue and contains bioactive compounds including polyphenols and other phytochemicals with antioxidant properties.

In skincare formulations, it functions as an antioxidant, helping to neutralise free radicals and oxidative stress on the skin's surface and within cells. The extract may also support cellular processes related to renewal and repair, though research on this ingredient specifically remains limited.

Benefits for Your Skin

How It Works

The extract works primarily as an antioxidant, with its polyphenol content binding to free radicals and preventing them from damaging skin cells and collagen. This helps protect against oxidative stress caused by UV exposure, pollution, and natural metabolic processes.

Emerging research suggests the extract may also influence autophagy—a cellular housekeeping mechanism that clears damaged components and supports cell renewal. By optimising this process, the ingredient may contribute to more resilient, better-functioning skin cells, though human clinical evidence for this mechanism remains preliminary.

Clinical Evidence & References

Evidence for this ingredient is currently limited. In-vitro studies have shown that coffea plant extracts possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and one small animal study suggested potential benefits for wound healing and tissue repair. A clinical trial investigating a combined formulation containing coffea arabica seed extract alongside another plant ingredient showed positive results for skin condition, though isolating the effects of this ingredient alone is not possible from that data.

Most existing research focuses on coffea canephora (robusta coffee) rather than arabica leaf extract specifically. Further human clinical trials would strengthen evidence for this ingredient's efficacy in skincare.

How to Use

This ingredient is typically found in serums, essences, and moisturisers. Apply to clean skin before heavier creams or oils to allow better absorption. It pairs well with other antioxidants like vitamin C or niacinamide, though this is not essential. Use consistently as part of your routine rather than occasionally for best results, as antioxidant benefits build over time.

Safety & Precautions

Coffea arabica leaf extract is generally well-tolerated and suitable for most skin types. Those with known sensitivity to caffeine or botanicals should patch test first, though sensitivity is uncommon.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Part of a family

Coffea Arabica Leaf Cell Extract is a variant of Coffea Arabica Seed Extract, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.

Natural extract derived from coffee beans Offers anti-ageing + skin defense benefits

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