If you are looking for a wonder elixir for your skin, the fruit bowl might not be the first place you think to look, but maybe it should be...
There is a reason that Christopher Columbus called the paw paw the "fruit of angels." Not only does it have a golden glow, but it is packed full of natural benefits that are not just gleaned by eating its flesh. The medicinal value of the paw paw has been known and appreciated by civilisations all over the world, and it is now one of the most popular ingredients in products for your skin and your body.
What is paw paw?
The paw paw is also known as papaya and is packed full of nutrients, minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. Originating in Central America and Mexico, the tropical fruit was introduced into Australia in the 1870s. While it was initially cultivated as food, it has been used to treat a wide range of ailments, and has been used in beauty routines ever since.
Many studies show that paw paw is rich in key vitamins that aid your skin such as vitamin A, E, C and K. It also has antioxidant properties that help in regenerating old and dead skin cells, making your skin healthy and beautiful. Not to mention paw paw is packed with magnesium, niacin, potassium, protein and fibre which all help to reduce inflammation. The ingredient papain has also been shown to act as a natural cleanser, combatting problem skin. When it comes to power fruits, the paw paw is an overachiever in many regards.
5 key beauty benefits of paw paw
If you are eating paw paw it has been linked to a range of benefits such as weight loss, stress relief, immunity boosting, lower cholesterol, reduced menstrual pain and better vision. It makes perfect sense that paw paw will also do great things when included in your beauty regime.
If you still aren't convinced, here are the top 6 beauty benefits of paw paw that will literally have you glowing in no time.
1 - A lighter and brighter complexion.
Ask any beautician and they will tell you that paw paw has natural cleansing agents that help to purify and clean your skin. It is also naturally rich in vitamin C which helps to give you a natural glow and repair sun damage. When combined, paw paw products will wipe away unwanted skin cells and leave you feeling fresh and bright. Sometimes, paw paw can have a bleaching effect when used in large amounts, so make sure to use mildly and to test on your skin before wide usage.
2 – Turn back the clock
Remember how we said that paw paw helps to regenerate your old and dead skin cells? Well, that means it helps your skin to look fresher and younger too. That is because the Vitamin A, C and E contained within paw paw, along with alpha-hydroxy acids, reduce the signs of aging and help to reduce fine lines. When you break down dead skin cells you visibly improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. This makes paw paw one of the most popular noninvasive approaches to anti-ageing in modern skin care.
3 - Say goodbye to pimples
Papain is a naturally occurring enzyme found in paw paw that helps to clear pores and remove build up. In the process, when used as a cleanser, paw paw helps to clear up pimples and acne and prevent further outbreaks. If you have problem skin, you can choose a paw paw based skincare product, and you can also reduce inflammation by including paw paw in your daily diet.
4 – A hydration celebration
The flesh of the paw paw contains loads of wonderful ingredients, but the seeds also have their benefits. Paw paw seed can be used to help all skin types, including sensitive and irritated skin. The paw paw seed helps to hydrate and maintain hydration in the skin, which is especially useful for areas such as the hands and face, and problematic dry areas like the elbows, knees, and ankles. Paw paw will keep skin soft, supple and smooth for longer. It is especially a must have in the cooler, dryer winter months.
5 – Repair damaged skin cells
Studies have shown that vitamin C has antioxidant agents which help the body to fight the free radicals that are largely responsible for damaging skin cells. Paw paw is rich in this type of vitamin C and helps to undo the damage that is caused to your skin by sun exposure, wind and ageing.
6 – Smoother than a baby's bottom
If your little one has a tendency to suffer from nappy rash, the soothing properties of Paw Paw will help ease the discomfort. Rubbing on a paw paw ointment will reduce inflammation and redness, and is suitable for sensitive skin. It really is a must-have in the nappy bag.
7 – Natural makeup tips
Did you know you can use paw paw ointments as an eyeshadow primer, lip gloss and eyebrow shaper? A small amount allows assists in blending, keeps everything in place, and makes you shine.
Choosing the right paw paw products
There are many different paw paw products on the market, and not all are created equally. Some regular paw paw creams, ointments and lotions contain petroleum jelly, which is a by-product of the oil industry and contains nasties like petroleum, mineral oil, and paraffins. If you are looking for a natural solution for your skin problems, you don't want to be rubbing these harsh ingredients into your body. Petroleum jelly also creates a barrier for your skin, which means that when you apply it, it stops moisture from getting both in and out and can clog your pores, in the long run leading to drier, more damaged skin. Our paw paw products are petrochemical free and have natural ingredients.
Next time you have a skin problem that just won't quit, remember the orange superfood that has been serving cultures for centuries, and add something a little fruity to your natural skin care regime.
