The objective of this study was to study and to analyze caffeine release from gel and emulgel prepared from carbopol. The properties of the preparations were determined (e.g. visual inspection, pH test, spreadability and in vitro release). The mechanisms of caffeine release were analyzed according to zero and first orders, and to Higuchi and Korsmeyer- Peppas models. Results were analyzed statistically using student t-test. The gels were transparent while emulgels were creamy, white and smooth. pH values were suitable for dermal application and spreadability was not changed in both cases. On the other hand, accumulated released amount of caffeine was decreased from emulgel in comparison with the gel. The release pattern was in accordance with Higuchi equation and n value referred that the diffusion was the main mechanism of release from the gel while the relaxation and the erosion contributed importantly in the release of suspended caffeine from emulgel.