Skin Care With Pomegranate
Pomegranate tree is found primarily in the Mediterranean region, Iran, Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, tropical Africa and East Indies. The Spanish settlers introduced this tropical tree in California in the 18th century.Pomegranate fruits are known for their medicinal properties. Studies have shown that pomegranate could be used for skin care. It protects the skin from sunlight, prevents premature aging of the skin and lowers the risk of skin cancer.
Pomegranate for skin care
Pomegranate is a rich source of ellagic acid. Ellagic acid is a type of polyphenol, which can protect us from several chronic diseases. This plant nutrient is also found in berries.
Researchers in Korea have found that ellagic acid could protect the skin from the harmful effects of the ultraviolet B rays of the sun. Prolonged exposure to sunlight promotes collagen breakdown.
Collagen maintains the elasticity of the skin. Destruction of collagen causes wrinkles. The ultraviolet B radiation of sunlight is one of the major enemies of collagen. In a study, researchers of Korea’s Hallym University have found that ellagic acid protects collagen from the sunlight.
It even helps to reduce inflammatory skin disorders by inhibiting synthesis of pro-inflammatory substances such as interleukin-1 beta and interleukin-6.
Health experts believe that pomegranate might prevent skin cancer. Laboratory studies have shown that pomegranate extract helps to shrink skin cancer tumors. Antioxidant nutrients present in pomegranate could protect the skin from toxins and environmental pollutants.
How to use pomegranate for skin care
Skin care products containing pomegranate extracts are readily available in cosmetic stores. You can also prepare homemade facials with pomegranate fruits.
Pomegranate juice and pomegranate seeds could be included in your skin care recipes. You can also use pomegranate seed oil to rejuvenate your skin. Pomegranate juice and pomegranate seed oil could be used as astringents. They help to balance the pH of the skin.
Pomegranate seed paste could be uses for skin exfoliation. The antioxidant nutrients in pomegranate seeds could cure minor inflammations of the skin.
Pomegranate seed oil could be used as a natural moisturizer for the aging skin. You can use oil extracted from pomegranate seeds for treating psoriasis and eczema. It can also be used for treating sunburn.
