From its nutrient-rich composition to its earthy sweet taste, papaya is an incredible fruit that offers a multitude of benefits. But did you know this antioxidant powerhouse can produce miraculous results for your skin too?
Keep reading to learn more about the fantastic papaya benefits for skin!
What is papaya extract for skin?
Papaya extract is a natural ingredient derived from the papaya fruit that is often used in skincare products due to its numerous benefits for the skin. Papaya extract contains enzymes such as papain and chymopapain, which are known for their exfoliating properties. It is considered to be a gentle yet effective ingredient for improving the appearance and health of the skin.
Pros & Cons of using papaya extract for skin
Pros
- Papaya extract contains natural enzymes that exfoliate dead skin cells, making your skin brighter and more radiant.
- It is rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene and vitamin C, which help to protect your skin from free radicals that can cause premature aging.
- Papaya has high water content, which helps to hydrate the skin and keep it moisturized.
- Papaya extract contains papain, an enzyme that helps to break down dead skin cells and unclog pores. This makes it an effective ingredient for treating acne-prone skin.
- Papaya extract contains enzymes that can help to even out your skin tone by reducing the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Cons
- Papaya extract can be harsh on sensitive skin, causing irritation, redness, and inflammation. It is important to do a patch test before using papaya extract products on your skin.
- Papaya extract can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is important to use sunscreen outside to avoid sunburn and further skin damage.
Papaya specifications
Clean
Papaya extract is generally considered clean for skin use as it is a natural ingredient derived from the papaya fruit. It is free from harmful chemicals, parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances that can be found in many skincare products.
Vegan
Papaya extract is vegan as it is a natural plant-based ingredient derived from the papaya fruit. It does not contain any animal-derived ingredients or by-products, and it is not tested on animals.
Pregnancy safe
While papaya is considered a healthy fruit for consumption, there is some controversy over the safety of using papaya extract topically during pregnancy. Papaya contains an enzyme called papain, which is known to have properties that can trigger contractions in the uterus. This can lead to premature labor and other complications during pregnancy.
Therefore, it is recommended that pregnant women avoid using papaya extract products on their skin, especially those containing high concentrations of papain. It is important to speak to your healthcare provider before using any skincare products during pregnancy to ensure they are safe for you and your baby.
Breastfeeding safe
Papaya extract is generally considered safe for topical use while breastfeeding. There is no evidence to suggest that papaya extract harms breast milk or nursing infants.
Active ingredient
Papaya is used as an active ingredient in skincare products due to its many benefits for the skin.
Comedogenic
Papaya extract itself is non comedogenic, meaning it does not clog pores or cause acne. In fact, papaya extract is often included in skincare products designed to treat acne-prone skin due to its exfoliating and pore-cleansing properties.
EWG (Environment Working Group) Score
Papaya for skin has a score of 1 on the EWG scale, which means that it has a low possibility of causing cancer, allergic reactions, being toxic, and can be used with very low restrictions.
CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) Rating: A
The CIR gave papaya extract an “A”, so it’s considered safe to be used in skincare products and cosmetics.
PRECAUTIONS: Things to know before using papaya extract for skin
When to use papaya extract for skin?
If you have oily skin, using papaya extract at night can help regulate the production of oil and prevent any breakouts. Meanwhile, those with dry skin may find that using papaya extract during the day helps hydrate and nourish their skin throughout the day. Regardless of when you choose to use it, papaya extract benefits the skin in so many ways - from exfoliating dead skin cells to reducing inflammation.
What skin type is papaya extract good for?
Papaya extract benefits all skin types, but it works wonders on oily and combination skin. This tropical ingredient is packed with enzymes that gently exfoliate and unclog pores, leaving your skin feeling fresh and renewed.
What you can’t mix papaya extract with?
Papaya extract is generally safe to use in combination with other skincare ingredients. However, there are a few ingredients that you should avoid mixing with papaya extract:
- Retinol: Papaya extract and retinol can both be effective ingredients for treating acne and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. However, they can also be harsh on the skin when used together, leading to irritation, dryness, and redness. It is generally recommended to use them at different times of the day or on alternating days.
- Benzoyl peroxide: Benzoyl peroxide is a common ingredient in acne treatments, but it can be harsh on the skin when used in combination with papaya extract. The two ingredients can cause irritation and dryness, so it is generally recommended to use them separately.
- Strong acids: Using strong acids such as glycolic acid or salicylic acid in conjunction with papaya extract can be too harsh on the skin, causing irritation and dryness. It is generally recommended to use them separately or at different times of the day.
FAQ’s
Can I apply papaya on face daily?
While using papaya on your face can have many benefits, it is not recommended to use it daily as it can potentially be too harsh for your skin. Papaya contains an enzyme called papain which can help exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells, but it can also cause irritation if used too frequently. It's best to use papaya on your skin no more than 2-3 times per week. Additionally, it's important to patch-test any new skincare ingredient before applying it to your skin.
Is papaya good for your face?
Yes, papaya is known to be good for your face because it's loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and enzymes that are beneficial for the skin. Papaya is rich in vitamin C which helps to brighten the skin and fade hyperpigmentation, while the enzyme papain helps to break down dead skin cells and unclog pores, which can prevent acne and blackheads. The high water content of papaya also helps to hydrate the skin, leaving it soft and supple. In addition, papaya contains beta-carotene and lycopene, which can protect the skin from sun damage and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Does papaya increase skin whitening?
While papaya may help to brighten the skin and fade hyperpigmentation, it is important to note that it does not increase skin whitening. Skin color is determined by the amount of melanin produced by your body, which is influenced by genetics, hormones, and sun exposure. Papaya contains an enzyme called papain that can help to exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells, which can lead to a brighter complexion. It also contains vitamin C, which can help to fade dark spots and even out skin tone. However, it does not bleach or lighten the skin beyond its natural color.
How long does it take for papaya to work on skin?
The time it takes for papaya to work on the skin may vary depending on the individual and the specific skin concern being addressed. However, it's important to note that you may not see immediate results after using papaya on your skin. It can take several weeks of consistent use to see improvements in skin texture, brightness, and overall appearance.
When using papaya as a topical treatment, it's recommended to use it 2-3 times per week and leave it on for about 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm water. Over time, you may notice that your skin looks brighter, smoother, and more hydrated.
Tips & Tricks to include papaya extract in your skincare routine
- Incorporate a cleanser with papaya into your skincare routine to dissolve excess oil and dirt that can clog pores and lead to breakouts.
- Use an exfoliator with papaya to properly remove dead skin cells and leave your complexion glowing.
- Add a toner with papaya extract to refresh and clear effectively your skin.
- Use a sheet mask with papaya extract to leave you looking like a glowing goddess.
- Apply a papaya-based lip cleanser to leave your lips feeling soft and smooth.
