Often known as the tropical fruit, papaya is one of the most popular superfoods that’s loaded with several nutrients.
It is also known as the ‘fruit of angels’ and offers incredible health benefits to your skin.
Be it in consumption or external application, this fruit can drastically change your way of skincare routine.
If you are also intrigued by papaya’s benefits for the skin, this article is for you. It can also help you understand how to take the best advantage of having this nutrient fruit.
The nutrition
Papaya is low in calories and rich in essential nutrients that promote skin health…
Vitamin A: Supports cell regeneration and reduces dryness.
Vitamin C: Aids in collagen production, improving skin elasticity.
Enzymes (Papain): Gently exfoliates and brightens the skin.
Antioxidants: Combat free radicals, preventing premature ageing.
Potassium: Hydrates and rejuvenates the skin.
One cup of ripe papaya (about 145 grams) contains approximately:
Calories: 59
Vitamin C: 88.3 mg (147% of the Daily Value)
Vitamin A: 31% of the Daily Value
Fiber: 2.5 grams
Here are some of the common skin benefits that this fruit offers…
1. Natural exfoliation
Papaya contains papain, an enzyme that acts as a natural exfoliant. It removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and leaves the skin glowing. For good exfoliation, mash ripe papaya and apply it as a face mask for 10-15 minutes to gently exfoliate and brighten your skin.
2. Anti-ageing properties
Rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene, papaya fights free radicals that cause wrinkles and fine lines. Regular use can improve skin elasticity and promote a youthful appearance. You can always include papaya in your diet by adding it to smoothies or fruit salads to enhance its anti-ageing effects.
3. Acne and blemish control
The papain enzyme reduces inflammation and helps in clearing acne and blemishes. Its antimicrobial properties also prevent breakouts. To improve your blemishes and acne, make sure to apply the fresh pulp of papaya directly on the acne for 10 minutes. Then lukewarm wash, and now the skin is so clear.
4. Moisturize skin
This fruit is abundant in water content and potassium, which hydrates as well as moistens the skin. It lets your skin go back to being soft and supple. Well, it is important to eat papaya regularly as a fruit or juice that hydrates your skin from inside out.
5. Repair from sun damage
High in vitamin C, papaya helps repair sun-damaged skin. It lightens pigmentation, smoothies out skin tone, and calms irritation. For this, mix papaya with honey and yoghurt to create a soothing face pack that combats sun damage and improves the texture of the skin.
Morning smoothie: Combine papaya with orange juice, spinach, and a squeeze of lemon for a drink that is good for the skin.
Fruit salad: Combine papaya with other vitamin C–rich fruits like kiwi and strawberries, for a refreshing, nutrient-dense snack.
Papaya detox water: Add papaya chunks to water with mint and lemon; this refreshing detox is ready to enjoy.
Raw Snack: Fresh papaya slices are great accompanied by a dribble of lime for a quick, hydrating treat.
Papaya is one of the most versatile fruits, offering benefits to your skin that are unparalleled. Whether you eat it or apply it, its nutrients work wonders in improving skin texture, fighting signs of ageing, and giving you a radiant complexion. Try incorporating papaya into your skincare and diet routine and see how it transforms you. Your skin will thank you for it!
