Unexpected Benefits Of Adding Apple To Your Skin Care Routine
It's well established that apples have a bushel of health benefits for your body, ergo the saying "An apple a day keeps the doctor away." But, how about for your skin? Did this common expression consider dermatologists? Probably not, but that doesn't mean apples don't have serious skin benefits. In fact, there are numerous ways that adding apples to your skin care routine may support healthy skin.
For starters, apples are brimming with vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. They also contain high amounts of phytochemicals such as carotenoids, phenolics, and flavonoids which are linked to other health benefits (i.e. reducing the odds of asthma, cancer, and more), points out a 2004 study in Nutrition Journal. One 2019 study in particular reported that flavonoids have a protective element on the skin by warding off damage from air pollution. "Flavonoids possess antioxidant activity, which helps protect the skin from free radical damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) exposure, pollution, and other environmental factors," explains dermatologist Najia Shaikh to Healthline. Each of these environmental factors can speed up aging, but apples or apple fruit extract fight back by reducing the effects.
Apples also have a high water content. In fact, apples contain roughly 85% water, according to Medical News Today. Thus, they are extremely hydrating for the skin, and they also contain high amounts of vitamin E, points out Healthline.
What are other benefits of apples for your skin?
When it comes to skin care, apple cider vinegar takes these health benefits up a notch. Because it's a popular natural remedy for many health complaints, it's safe to call it the "apple of the eye" of health care. But why? According to Healthline, apple cider vinegar (which is made from apples) is chock full of acetic acid and citric acid. And each of these acids have powerful properties that help skin glimmer and radiate.
Researchers from a 2021 study found that acetic acid can fight off fungal and bacterial infections since it possesses antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. And citric acid helps slough off dull and dead skin, explains research from a 2018 study. Together these acids result in annihilating blemishes, killing bacteria that causes acne, and exfoliating the skin, revealing the ultimate reward – smooth, glowy skin. Alternatively, "Mashed apple mixed with milk cream offers relief for acne," according to the cofounder of Skinfluencer, Sharin Shafer (via Healthline).
Keep in mind, apple cider vinegar can be extremely harsh and dry out the skin, so it's important to dilute it. Healthline recommends using tested products rather than DIYing your own to avoid harming your skin, but if you're really wanting to test it out, Shafer suggests using apple slices on your face to help boost hydration.