Skincare is a billion-naira industry, and in Nigeria, we’re no strangers to shelves full of “organic” creams, whitening soaps, and facial serums that promise glass skin overnight. But what if the secret to clearer skin isn’t in a bottle or jar?
Most skincare products are made with chemicals that can trigger some reactions. Some work, many don’t, and a lot of them can damage your skin over time. But fruits? They’re rich in antioxidants, vitamins, natural acids, and water; all the things your skin actually craves.
If your face is breaking out, dull, or just refusing to glow, don’t sleep on these fruits.
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1. Pawpaw
Pawpaw is one of the most underrated fruits for skincare. It’s loaded with Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and papain, an enzyme that gently exfoliates the skin and reduces dark spots. Eat it for brighter, hydrated skin and improved digestion (which affects your skin too).
Apply as a face mask: Mash ripe papaya and apply it to your face for 10–15 minutes. It helps fade hyperpigmentation and exfoliates naturally.
Papain removes dead skin cells and clears clogged pores, the two biggest causes of acne and dull skin.
2. Watermelon
Dry, flaky skin? Watermelon is your go-to and should be in your routine. It’s made up of 92% water, so it hydrates the body from the inside, giving your skin a plump, healthy look. It also contains lycopene, an antioxidant that fights skin ageing and sun damage.
You can also apply as a toner. Simply blend watermelon, strain the juice, and dab onto your face with cotton wool. It’s super refreshing.
3. Oranges
You’ve probably heard of the famous “Vitamin C serum”, but did you know that fresh oranges give you all that goodness naturally? Oranges are packed with Vitamin C, which boosts collagen, fades acne scars, and evens out skin tone.
Eat it for stronger skin, a brighter complexion, and faster healing of scars. You can also apply as a mask: Mix orange peel powder with honey or yoghurt for a glow-boosting face pack.
4. Avocado
Avocados are creamy for a reason; they’re loaded with healthy fats, Vitamin E, and biotin, all of which your skin loves. Eating it regularly keeps your skin soft and nourished, while applying it topically locks in moisture.
The healthy oils and fats in avocado go beyond surface hydration and repair skin from within.
5. Banana
Bananas are rich in zinc, potassium, and Vitamin A, which help fight acne, reduce oiliness, and even out your skin texture. It’s especially helpful if your skin is acting up from stress or hormonal changes.
Bananas moisturise, reduce irritation, and support skin repair, especially if your skin is easily irritated by chemical products.
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Other fruits that help your skin glow
While the five fruits above are skincare powerhouses, there are plenty of other fruits that can elevate your glow-up, each with its own benefits and easy ways to use them. Here are some extra fruits you should absolutely include in your skincare diet:
1. Strawberries
How to use: Blend into smoothies or mash for face masks.
Skin benefits: High in Vitamin C and alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) — great for exfoliating and brightening skin.
2. Cucumber
How to use: Slice and apply to the face, or juice and drink.
Skin benefits: Soothes inflammation, reduces puffiness, and cools irritated skin.
3. Tomatoes
How to use: Rub raw on skin or mix with honey for an acne-fighting mask.
Skin benefits: Natural astringent; helps reduce oil, tighten pores, and treat acne.
4. Lemons
How to use: Mix lemon juice with sugar for scrubbing or water for internal detox.
Skin benefits: Fades scars, evens skin tone. Always dilute and avoid the sun after use.
5. Pineapple
How to use: Eat or apply small amounts to dark spots (test first; it’s strong).
Skin benefits: Contains bromelain, which exfoliates and fades blemishes.
You can also blend these fruits into smoothies with ginger, honey, or oats for an internal skin cleanse, or freeze fruit blends as DIY facial ice cubes to calm inflammation and refresh your face.
Glowing skin starts from within
To get the best results, combine fruit-rich eating habits with a simple skincare routine (cleanser + SPF + moisturiser). Avoid junk food, drink enough water, and let these fruits do their magic.
Your skin is a reflection of what’s going on inside your body. And sometimes, the best skincare routine starts with what’s on your plate, not what’s on your bathroom shelf.
