The age-old adage goes: ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’ but for us, beauty enthusiasts, the advice can be modified to ‘an apple a day for skin that is beautiful and glowing’.  Apples are a very rich source of powerful antioxidants like polyphenols and flavonoid, all of which play a major role in maintaining the radiance and suppleness of our skin. Read on to know more about how apples help in the upkeep of skin health. 

Benefits of Apples for Skin Health

Apples are a rich source of antioxidants like flavonoids and polyphenols, which play an important role in delaying signs of aging and help maintain the natural radiance and suppleness of skin. The skin of apples aids in supplying the body with galacturonic acid, which in turn helps in removing toxins from the body. The presence of malic and tartaric acid helps in maintaining a healthy digestive system. And good digestion, we all know, has long been linked to healthy skin. 

Ways To Use Apples for Healthy Skin

Including Apples in Regular Diet

The ancient healing system of Ayurveda, recognizes apples as an ‘ojas’ or life force producing food. According to Ayurveda, one should eat a ripe cooked apple every morning for maximum benefits.

Alternatively, develop the habit of snacking on apples. This would fortify the production of collagen and elastin which are essential for keeping the skin smooth and supple.

However, it is advisable to remember that raw apples should be eaten on their own and not in combination with other cooked food items. This practice ensures that all nutrients are properly absorbed. On the other hand, the rule can be flexed in case of cooked dishes made from apple, like apple pies.

Apple Face Mask

Prepare your own home-made face mask by grating 1 ripe apple. Blend with fresh cream and the juice of 1/4 lemon. Apply it all over face and neck. Keep the mask for 20-25 minutes and then wash off. This mask would help purify and moisturize skin while also rendering skin lightening benefits.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has long been known for its cosmetic uses. It is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, natural enzymes and antioxidants. It contains beta carotene, magnesium, calcium, bioflavonoids, potassium, copper, iron and pectin along with Vitamins A, B and C.

Cider vinegar is very effective in maintaining the ph balance of skin. It also improves blood circulation while toning and purifying skin.

Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar Skin Radiance

Prepare your own cider vinegar drink by stirring 1/4 cup cider vinegar in 1 cup warm water. Have this drink once or twice a day for best results. In case the taste is too strong for your palate, you can add some honey to the drink.

Cider vinegar drink has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it excellent for oily and dull skin conditions. It will also turn out be highly beneficial if you have been suffering from acne.

Applying Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a powerful tonic for skin. It has antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties, which makes it a one of a kind astringent when applied externally. 

For best results, dilute cider vinegar with equal amount of water in a small bowl. Apply the mixture with a soft cotton ball to your skin and leave for at least 20 minutes or overnight. Do it every day for best results. 

Image courtesy: ifood.tv