Watermelon is an indispensable ingredient in the list of easily accessible skincare remedies. This humble and popular fruit is not only effective in cooling the body down but also packed with nutrients beneficial for the skin. With a price range of just 10,000 to 20,000 VND per kg, watermelon is ubiquitous in fruit stalls, local markets, and street carts, becoming a budget-friendly yet powerful companion in the beauty journey of Vietnamese women.
6 Amazing Skin Benefits of Watermelon
Watermelon not only helps cool down the body during hot summer days but also serves as a beauty “elixir” that women can take advantage of daily. With its affordable price, easy availability, and refreshing taste, watermelon deserves to be included in the list of fruits that are delicious and contribute to beautiful skin. Here are 5 outstanding benefits of watermelon for the skin:
1. Brightens Skin and Fades Dark Spots
Not many people know that watermelon contains a precious compound for the skin called glutathione – an antioxidant that supports skin lightening. Glutathione works by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is the main “culprit” in the production of melanin – the pigment that darkens the skin and forms dark spots and freckles.
According to research by the Willowbrook Dermatology and Laser Center (USA), increasing glutathione intake through the diet can significantly improve skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation. Therefore, eating watermelon regularly is a natural and simple way to brighten and improve dull skin.
2. Protects Skin from UV Damage
Watermelon not only helps brighten the skin but also acts as a natural shield against ultraviolet rays. Thanks to its high lycopene content, approximately 4,868 mcg/100g, which is higher than that of cherry tomatoes, watermelon can soothe inflammatory responses and reduce redness caused by sun exposure.
A study from the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (USA) affirmed that a diet rich in carotenoids like lycopene can help mitigate the damaging effects of UV rays. However, even with daily watermelon consumption, it is essential to apply sunscreen to ensure comprehensive skin protection.
3. Defends Against Environmental Aggressors
Watermelon also helps protect the skin from pollution, dry and cold weather, and harsh climatic conditions. According to nutrition expert Marisa Moore, a representative of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, this fruit contains high levels of the amino acid L-citrulline, which converts to L-arginine in the body, promoting improved blood circulation and strengthening the skin’s protective barrier.
Through this mechanism, watermelon helps maintain skin health and reduces negative impacts from the environment and weather conditions.
4. Deeply Hydrates and Prevents Dry Skin
Comprising 92% water, watermelon is an ideal “natural moisturizer” for the skin. Incorporating watermelon into your diet not only helps cool the body but also maintains skin moisture, minimizing flaking, cracking, and roughness.
Especially during hot summer days or dry seasons, watermelon is a potent ally in keeping the skin soft and supple from within.
5. Boosts Collagen Production and Slows Down Aging
Few people know that just 100g of watermelon provides approximately 23.2 mg of vitamin C, equivalent to 25% of the daily requirement. Vitamin C is not only a potent antioxidant but also plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis, an essential component for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness.
A study from the Carrington Farms Health Center (USA) revealed that middle-aged women with a vitamin C-rich diet had fewer wrinkles and significantly more hydrated and resilient skin.
6. Exfoliates Dead Skin Cells
Watermelon not only nourishes the skin but also gently cleanses it due to the presence of citric and malic acids, which belong to the group of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) commonly found in chemical exfoliants. According to dermatologist Suzanne Friedler from New York, these acids gently remove the old, hardened layer of skin, resulting in smoother skin that can better absorb nutrients.
Some Effective Watermelon Beauty Treatments: Affordable, Effective, and Easy to Do at Home
Watermelon is not just a familiar cooling fruit but also a versatile skincare ingredient that women can utilize in numerous ways. Here are some effective beauty treatments using watermelon that you can easily perform at home:
1. Watermelon Juice Mask for Hydration and Soothing
Watermelon, composed of 92% water and rich in natural antioxidants, is excellent for soothing dry, sunburned, or irritated skin. Especially when chilled before use, watermelon creates a relaxing cooling sensation, instantly reducing inflammation.
How to:
– Mash the red flesh of the watermelon.
– Soak a cotton pad in the watermelon juice and apply it to your face.
– Relax for 10-15 minutes, then rinse.
With just a little watermelon and a few cotton pads, you’ve got yourself a natural, gentle, and incredibly affordable moisturizing mask.
2. Watermelon and Rice Powder Exfoliating Mask
Watermelon contains organic acids such as citric and malic acids, commonly found in mild chemical exfoliants. When combined with rice powder, this formula effectively removes dead skin cells and brightens the complexion safely.
How to:
– Mix ¼ cup of watermelon juice with 3 teaspoons of rice powder.
– Apply the mixture to your face and massage in circular motions for about 2-3 minutes.
– Rinse with cool water.
Perform this treatment 1-2 times a week for smooth and radiant skin.
3. Watermelon Rind for Minimize Pores
The white part of the watermelon rind, usually discarded, contains a lot of water and vitamins beneficial for the skin. When chilled, the white rind becomes a natural “skin-nourishing ice cube,” instantly hydrating and tightening pores.
How to:
– Peel off the dark green outer layer of the watermelon rind and retain the white part (some red flesh is fine).
– Cut into 5x5cm squares, place them in an airtight container, and store in the freezer.
– After cleansing your face, use 2-3 frozen cubes to gently rub onto your face.
– Let your skin air dry for about 5-10 minutes, then rinse with water.
This method is particularly suitable for oily and large-pored skin.
4. Watermelon Rind and Green Bean Soup for Acne and Skin Detox
Combining watermelon rind with green beans is a folk remedy that helps cool the body, detoxify, and address the root cause of acne. This recipe not only soothes the liver but also supports skin improvement from within.
Ingredients:
– 100g green beans
– 500g watermelon rind (dark green outer layer removed)
– 1.5 liters of water
How to:
Cook the green beans with water until they are almost done, then add the watermelon rind and simmer for a few more minutes.
Let it cool down, strain the liquid, and drink it throughout the day.
Doing this 2-3 times a week helps detoxify the body and significantly reduces acne breakouts.
5. Watermelon Rind and Honey Lip Balm
For chapped and lackluster lips, a lip mask made from watermelon rind and honey is an excellent restorative “medicine.” Clean the watermelon rind, cut it into thin strips, dry them in the sun, and then grind them into a powder. Mix the watermelon rind powder with honey and apply it to the corners of the lips 1-2 times a day.
After a few days of applying this watermelon rind and honey lip treatment, your lips will become soft and rosy again.
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