Photo: FoundryParkInn / Flickr

Have you ever wondered what people did to look after their skin before the time of mass-produced cosmetics? Most people are so used to buying facial care products in a shop that the idea of cheap, easy-to-use natural skin care alternatives lying around at home seems a bit too good to be true. But if you read the labels of many well known face creams you will see ingredients like ‘papaya extract’ or ‘fruit acids’ are a common feature. So why not go straight to the source, cut out artificial additives and use the natural goodness of a fresh fruit facial in your skin care routine?

Tone and hydrate

The mild acids found in fresh fruit remove dead skin cells and restore the natural glow of your skin. Fruits are also rich in moisture, and a fresh fruit facial is naturally hydrating.

Fruit against skin cancer

Photo: FoundryParkInn / Flickr

But moisturising and toning are not the only benefits of topical applications of fruit. Additionally, studies show, certain fruits have strong cancer fighting potential and can increase the efficacy of your sunscreen against UV rays. Pomegranate juice is high in polyphenols and anthocyanidins, which are potent antioxidants. The study showed topical application of pomegranate extract reduces the risk of skin cancer. Other key cancer fighting ingredients can be found in grapes, cherries and citrus fruit.

Easy fruit facial

So here is an easy recipe for a fruit face mask. Peel and pulp a variety of fresh fruit such as papaya, apple and grapes, and mix with egg white and honey. The egg white and honey combination is used to thicken the mixture, but it also adds useful protein and anti-inflammatory qualities. The mixture must set in the fridge and then you can use it as a face mask. Leave it on your skin for 15 minutes and gently wash it off with a cloth. Your skin should feel soft and rejuvenated.

You don’t need to spend a fortune to nourish your skin. And you don’t need to put up with dull, dry skin, either. Natural skin care is as easy as it is delicious.

Tags: facial care, skin care