9 fruits to keep your skin glowing this winter

When it comes to food, the winter essentials in Pakistan are nihari, halwa, haleem, roasted peanuts and several others. However these delectable foods shouldn’t make us forget to consume fruits which are crucial for our skincare in winter. Here are fruits you can snack on to maintain that healthy glow during the dry season.

1) Grapefruit



Citrus fruits are a must-have during the dry winter season as they are packed with vitamin C, which brings elasticity to the skin and reduces pigmentation. Grapefruit consists of a carotenoid, lycopene  and according to a study published in 2008 in the European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, researchers found that of the 20 individuals studied, those who had higher skin concentrations of lycopene had smoother skin

2) Papaya



This fruit contains large amounts of the enzyme papain, vitamin E and vitamin A, which prove that papaya-based scrubs are great for exfoliating dead skin cells and rejuvenating ageing skin. Papayas are also great for skin-firming.

3) Pomegranate



Anaar juice acts as an anti-oxidant and nourishes the skin. When applied to the skin, it penetrates into the layers, providing the much needed moisture with the help of micro-nutrients.

4) Pineapple

Acne is one of the many skin issues one has to face in this season and pineapple being rich in vitamin C and bromelain, along with many other anti-oxidants, helps to combat it by purifying the pores deeply. The application of pineapple juice on your face once a day improves skin hydration and preventing skin inflammation and blemishes.

5) Banana

To combat routine skin peeling and dryness in winter, the high potassium and vitamin A levels in banana help to keep your skin soft and supple and restores lost moisture.

6) Custard apple 

The consumption of this fruit protects and preserves skin cells and evens out skin tone. The vitamin B in custard apple controls excess sebum production and promotes healthy skin formation. The high level of fibre in custard apple makes it an excellent laxative. It helps the body to get rid of toxins and wastes that seep into the bloodstream, causing lifeless and dull skin. Fibre also prevents instability of sugar spikes, which can damage collagen.

7) Kiwi

Kiwis are nutrient rich fruits and contain omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E and antioxidants. It also helps in producing collagen. It assists in healing of abrasion and cuts and also prevents the skin from becoming rough and dry.

8) Plum

The presence of vitamin E and beta-carotene in plum help the body to fight against ageing skin and maintain the elasticity. The antioxidant properties of this fruit help in increasing metabolism and blood circulation.

9) Grapes

Grapes are rich in vitamin E, vitamin C and antioxidants which keep your skin healthy, especially during the winter months. The consumption of grapes keeps the skin toned and moisturised. The organic acids present in grapes rejuvenate skin cells and protects them from the harsh winter weather.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 14^th, 2016.

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