Debunking the Skincare Myth: What Rubbing a Banana Peel on Your Face Actually Does

Beauty
Debunking the Skincare Myth: What Rubbing a Banana Peel on Your Face Actually Does
ripe banana
Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

Among all the internet trends, skincare tips have grabbed people’s interest uniquely. Out of the huge number of videos and posts, one has drawn the most attention and interest: rubbing the peel of a banana on your face, which many claim has amazing benefits for the skin.

Ashton Hall, among other influencers, made the trend popular with their choice of having a toothbrush nearby every morning. However, what actually caused this trend to appear? Is there any weight to the idea, or is it only a passing trend?

What Claims Are Being Made?

Those at the back of the trend are keen to say that it leads to natural beauty improvements likening it to ‘natural Botox’. Banana peels are sometimes recommended by influencers on TikTok to brighten the skin, fight wrinkles, and make it moisturize.

The process is straightforward: Once the banana is eaten, the peel’s inside is used to gently rub the face in circles, left on for a little while, and then removed with warm water. Many people are drawn to this simple way of cleaning because it is easy to do and uses no chemicals.

However, what sparked its meteoric rise in popularity? The appeal comes from the belief that natural and budget-friendly skincare can be reached through this trend. With most cosmetic products on the market costing a lot and labels looking confusing, simply using a banana peel sounds much easier. Many people are interested in advanced skincare without paying more since they believe nature itself has the answers.

banana peels
Jack Nicholson Banana Peel 1 | Used in a blog on wisebread.c… | Flickr, Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Expert Opinions: Why Dermatologists Are Skeptical

Despite all these healthy ingredients, experts recommend being careful before fully adopting this trend. Many dermatologists are concerned about its ability to work and its safety. Dr. Even though banana peels have small levels of vitamin C and antioxidants, Rakesh Anand believes that exposure to oxygen stops the skin from soaking them up.

He believes that, compared to other options, the amount of these compounds in the peel does not provide enough benefit for use on the skin.

More doubt is raised when you realize that science has not supplied evidence for the trend. Banana peels do not go through the same type of stability testing as many commercial skincare products. It presents a major issue since the components in the fruit could disintegrate rapidly, losing their benefits. Dr. Anand points out that stability and formulation play a major role in providing the desired benefits of a skincare product.

banana peel trend
DCL Skincare Vitamin C Serum 25, Photo by m.media-amazon.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Are the Benefits Worth the Risk?

All in all, what are the potential dangers for anyone interested in attempting the banana peel skating trend? Even though it may be harmless sometimes, its helpful effects are usually very slight. Anyone really looking to improve their skin is advised by dermatologists to choose products that are both effective and safe for use.

Vitamin C serums, unlike banana peels, give you the same antioxidant power in a form that is consistent and stronger. These products allow individuals to notice improvements, as they have undergone proper studies and reviews.

Experts are key in helping us tell apart the truth from the false claims in this skincare trend. Before trying natural skincare trends, skin care and dermatology specialists urge people to know the science behind them.

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banana peel trend
Banana Peel | Flickr – Photo Sharing!, Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Claimed Benefits: Do They Hold Up?

Many people praise banana peels for being rich in nutrients. Because vitamins A, B, C, and E, along with antioxidants like lutein are present in carrot serum, backers suggest these can tackle incidences of oxidative stress, lower inflammation, and dampen the skin. Still, experts are careful about whether these theories can be put into practice.

Dr. Joshua Zeichner, who specializes in dermatology, says that the skin is not very good at absorbing nutrition from banana peels rubbed on it. It means that using banana peels on your skin will not be very useful.

The amount of nutrients in banana peels is not as high as what is found in professional skincare products. For example, products that stabilize vitamin C can provide better and more targeted skin results. Dr. Kate Jameson explains that banana peels can offer soap-like relief for itchy or dry skin, but their results are not strong enough for long-term skin healing.

Potential Risks and Safety Concerns

Even though banana peels are natural, they can still pose some risks when used on the skin. A major worry that dermatologists have is that the peel might carry traces of pesticides or bacteria. If you don’t clean your jeans well, traces of pollution might end up on your skin and could cause negative reactions. Those with sensitive skin or eczema or dermatitis often have a greater chance of getting irritated.

Another dermatologist, Dr. Kiran Mian, points out that it is important to remember how much the antioxidants in banana peels can enter the body. Since the human body has a hard time taking in these compounds, any claimed advantages are unlikely to be greater than the possible risks.

banana peel skincare trend
Hazardous Waste | Does the banana peel feel existential Empt… | David Goehring | Flickr, Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Evidence-Based Alternatives to Consider

For people interested in banana peels’ antioxidants, dermatologists say it is better to use products made with similar components in stabilized and strong forms. A vitamin C serum is often preferred to brighten the complexion and lower levels of oxidative stress. Such products are designed to reach deep and last, unlike the fast-fading results of applying a banana peel.

Striking a Balance Between Curiosity and Caution

The small advantages it provides are usually less important than the risks it may bring and the presence of other more effective medications. Following evidence-based approaches and getting suggestions from experts will help individuals get healthy and radiant skin.

Related posts:
Expert reveals truth behind trend of rubbing banana peel on your face and why it may not be what you think
A Dermatologist Weighs In: The Truth About Ashton Hall’s Viral 4AM Skincare Routine
What Does Rubbing a Banana Peel on Your Face Do, Really?

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