Winter food in Pakistan although is known for its Nihari and Haleem and those delicious roasted peanuts, among many others, but these delectable foods in no way trump the amazing fruits that are essential for our skincare and our health in general during the winter. Here are some fruits that are crucial to maintaining healthy glowing skin among other benefits, this piercing season.
Grapefruits
Citrus fruits are absolutely essential in the wintery cold season, being packed with vitamin C which improves the elasticity of your skin and reduces pigmentation. Based on a study conducted in 2008 in the European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, it was found that of the 20 people studied, those who had higher concentrations of lycopene had much smoother skin, and grapefruits are perfect for that!
Papaya
Papayas contain the enzyme papain (in abundance), vitamin E and vitamin A, which attest to the fact that papaya-based scrubs are perfect for exfoliating dead skin cells and revitalizing ageing skin. Papayas are also the perfect fruit if you want to make your skin firm.
Pomegranate
Anaar juice acts as an anti-oxidant and nourishes the skin when applied to the skin by directly penetrating in through the layers, providing some much-needed moisture with the support of micro-nutrients.
Pineapple
Acne is one of the countless skin problems one has to suffer through, this season and pineapples being rich in vitamin C and bromelain, along with several other anti-oxidants, helps fight it by cleansing the pores deeply. Applying pineapple juice on your face once a day hydrates your skin, preventing skin inflammation and blemishes.
Banana
To fight tedious skin peeling and dryness during the harsh winter season, the high potassium and vitamin A levels contained in bananas help to keep your skin smooth, soft and supple and restores moisture that is lost due to the weather.
Custard apple
This fruit, consumed abundantly, guards and preserves skin cells and evens out skin tone. The high concentration of vitamin B in custard apple controls surplus sebum production and encourages healthy skin formation. The high fiber level of the custard apple makes it an exceptional laxative. It helps the body rid itself of toxins and wastes that trickle into the bloodstream, causing lifeless and dull skin. Fiber also thwarts the unsteadiness of sugar spikes, which could damage collagen.
Kiwi
Kiwis are fruits, rich in nutrients and comprise of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E and antioxidants which help in collagen production which assists with healing of abrasions and cuts and keeps the skin from getting dry and rough.
Plum
The high concentration of vitamin E and beta-carotene in plums help the body battle ageing skin and preserve the elasticity. The antioxidant qualities of this fruit help increase metabolism and blood circulation.
Grapes
Grapes contain copious amounts of vitamin E, vitamin C and antioxidants which keep your skin vigorous, especially during winter. Consuming ample amounts of grapes ensures that your skin is toned and nourished. The organic acids in grapes revive skin cells and protect them from the harsh and cold weather.