Guava for skin: 8 reasons to add this fruit to your beauty routine

Topical skin treatments are great for your skin, and adding guava to them can take your skin care to the next level. Rich in nutrients such as vitamin C and B vitamins, guava has several benefits for your skin. These vitamins work together with other antioxidants to promote skin health. That’s why there are facial cleansers, toners, anti-aging, and anti-acne products that use guava as a key ingredient. If not available commercially, you can also incorporate the oval fruit with edible seeds into your skin care routine. Whether you have dry or oily skin, you can use this superfood to hydrate and prevent acne. Learn about the benefits of guava for your skin and how to use this tropical fruit.

Nutritional value of guava

Before we discuss the benefits of guava for your skin, let’s know about its nutritional value. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 100 grams of guava contains:

• 80.8 grams of water
• 2.55 grams of protein
• 14.3 grams of carbohydrates
• 5.4 grams of dietary fiber
• Calcium 18mg
• Magnesium 22mg
• Vitamin C 228mg
• 1.08mg Niacin (vitamin B3)
• Vitamin B-6 0.11mg
• Lycopene 5200 micrograms

What are the benefits of guava for the skin?

Guava is also beneficial for your skin, as it is a treasure trove of nutrients your skin needs.

1. Anti-aging properties

“This fruit is a rich source of antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin C, which fight free radicals that damage skin cells,” says dermatologist Dr. Shifa Yadav. According to research published in the International Journal of Phytomedicine and Phytotherapy in 2018, guava can prevent premature skin aging. The antioxidants present in this fruit can slow down the formation of fine lines and wrinkles and keep your skin looking youthful. “It is rich in vitamin C, which promotes collagen production and gives skin elasticity and firmness,” says the expert.

2. Whitening effect

The vitamin C present in this fruit acts as a natural brightening agent. Helps reduce the appearance of age spots and eliminate uneven skin tone. “Free radicals that cause dullness are neutralized by guava, increasing skin’s radiance,” says the expert.

3. Prevent acne

Guava’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties contribute to fighting acne, reducing redness, swelling, and irritation. It also has anti-sebum effects, according to a study published in the Journal Of Cosmetic Dermatology in 2019. Researchers found that a toner containing guava extract significantly reduced oiliness on the participants’ foreheads and noses. “Natural compounds control sebum production and prevent pores from becoming clogged. If your pores aren’t blogging, you won’t get breakouts,” says Dr. Yadav.

4. Moisturizes the skin

One of the skin benefits of guava has to do with its water content. Guava has a high water content, which moisturizes the skin, making it soft and supple. Skin hydration fights dryness and increases skin elasticity. “Guavas also contain several essential fatty acids that strengthen the skin barrier, lock in moisture, and protect the skin from environmental stresses such as wind and extreme temperatures,” say experts.

5. Excellent exfoliant

Natural enzymes with mild acids found in guava act as a gentle exfoliant. “It wipes away dead skin cells, opens pores to remove all dirt, and evens out skin texture without irritation,” says the expert. This maintains the glow and keeps your skin fresh and smooth.

6. Reduces sun damage

Exposure to harmful UV rays damages skin cells by causing sunburn, premature skin aging, and oxidative stress. “Rich in lycopene and antioxidants, guava helps fight such effects by neutralizing free radicals produced by sun exposure,” says the expert. According to a study published in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology in 2019, guava contains large amounts of photoprotective substances and antioxidants, such as flavonoids and tannins.

7. Has healing properties

“Guava helps soothe minor skin injuries such as cuts and burns and reduces swelling by contracting and tightening the skin,” says the expert. This is due to its astringent properties, according to research published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2008.

8. Improves skin texture

Guava is rich in vitamins and other antioxidants, which have a positive effect on skin texture. “Smoothes rough areas and reduces pore size for a more refined appearance,” says the expert. The antioxidants found in guava repair damaged skin cells and keep your skin healthy and youthful.

Guava skin benefits: Apply or eat?

Pros and cons of applying guava on your skin:

• Pros: Directly addresses specific skin concerns such as acne, dullness, and pigmentation.
• Disadvantages: Limited to surface level benefits and requires consistent use.

Pros and cons of eating guava for skin:

• Pros: Nutrients are absorbed internally and promote overall skin health, including hydration, repair, and rejuvenation.
• Disadvantages: Depends on continuous consumption, takes time to show effects.

“To reap the benefits of guava for your skin, combine both methods,” suggests Dr. Yadav. Most guava-based treatments can be applied weekly. Also, consume fruits regularly for comprehensive skin care.

Guava benefits for skin: How to use it

1. Oily skin

• DIY face mask: Mix mashed guava pulp with 1 teaspoon of honey and lemon juice. Apply it and leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then wash it off.
• frequency: Use this face mask 2-3 times a week to enjoy the benefits of guava on your skin.

2. Dry skin

• DIY face mask: Mix guava pulp with yogurt and a few drops of almond oil. Apply this DIY face mask for dry skin, leave it on for 15 minutes, and then wash it off.
• frequency: Please use only 1-2 times a week.

3. Sensitive skin

• soothing face mask: Mix guava pulp and cucumber juice and apply as a cooling mask.
• frequency: Use only once a week.

4. Combination skin

• DIY face scrub: Mix guava pulp, oatmeal powder, and rose water. After application, wait about 15 minutes before rinsing off.
• frequency: Use twice a week to enjoy the effects of guava on your skin.

Are there any side effects when using guava on the skin?

• allergic reaction: People who are allergic to guava may experience redness and itching.
• sensitivity: High vitamin C content may irritate sensitive skin or worsen redness.
• photosensitivity: Using guava-based treatments that contain lemon or acidic ingredients can increase sun sensitivity.
• clogged pores: Especially if you have oily skin type, using too much may cause clogged pores.

Guava is really good for your skin. Protects your skin from sun damage and prevents premature skin aging. However, before reaping the skin benefits of guava, do a patch test.