Watercress Juice: A Natural Way to Improve Your Skin
Introduction
Singer Hoà Minzy has garnered a large following for her powerful vocals and bubbly personality. In recent years, she has become known for her radiant complexion and flawless skin, even as she approaches her 30s. Her secret weapon? Drinking watercress juice daily.
Watercress Juice for Acne-Prone Skin
Hoà Minzy revealed in an interview that she drinks watercress juice to improve her acne-prone skin from within. She blends fresh watercress leaves, adds a bit of sugar for taste, and consumes it 2-3 times a day. With consistent use, Hoà Minzy’s skin has shown significant improvement, with reduced acne and fading dark spots.
In addition to drinking watercress juice, Hoà Minzy emphasizes sun protection by applying sunscreen regularly, even on overcast days. She also thoroughly cleanses her face before bed to remove dirt and makeup, preventing clogged pores and the formation of new acne.
Benefits of Watercress for Skin
According to Dr. Mai Việt (National Institute of Nutrition), watercress is a treasure trove for the skin due to its high nutritional content. Rich in lycopene, watercress aids in fading acne scars, reducing melasma and freckles, and protecting the skin from sun damage. It is an effective yet lesser-known internal sunscreen.
Watercress also provides vitamins A, C, and K, and essential minerals such as iron, calcium, and potassium, which nourish the skin from within, enhancing its health and radiance. Additionally, the quercetin and isoquercitrin compounds in watercress aid in detoxification, purifying the body, and improving acne, particularly hormonal acne and breakouts caused by inflammation.
However, it is essential to minimize added sugar intake when using watercress juice for acne treatment. Sugar contributes to skin elasticity loss, wrinkles, and acne formation. Therefore, it is recommended to limit or eliminate sugar consumption while incorporating watercress juice into your routine.
Commercially available watercress extract supplements in drinkable form can also be considered. These products offer convenience and ensure effective acne control and skin whitening from within. Some examples include Goce Watercress Powder and Daily Effect Watercress and Celery Acne Reduction and Skin Whitening Drink.
Precautions for Watercress Consumption
Thoroughly Clean: Wash watercress leaves thoroughly under running water and soak them in a diluted salt solution for 15 minutes to remove dirt, bacteria, and parasites.
Dosage: Consume no more than 20-40g of fresh watercress daily. Excessive consumption may cause unwanted side effects.
Timing: Avoid watercress juice on an empty stomach, as it may irritate the digestive system. Individuals with weak digestive systems should refrain from drinking watercress juice after 10 p.m.
Combinations: To reduce the pungent odor of watercress, mix it with coconut water before consumption. Coconut water also has cooling properties and a sweet taste, making it more palatable and increasing its effectiveness in treating acne and brightening the skin.
Contraindications: Individuals with kidney disease, low blood pressure, lightheadedness, dizziness, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid watercress consumption.
Side Effects: Some individuals may experience side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, or low blood pressure when using watercress.
Conclusion
These are the tips for treating acne with watercress juice as shared by Hoà Minzy. Consult a healthcare professional before consuming watercress to ensure safety and effectiveness.