Better than Botox: Does banana peel help get rid of wrinkles?
On the Internet, it is considered more useful than Botox. But is it so?
Oh, TikTok. Some days we love you, and some days we want to delete you from our phones forever. There are so many weird trends and life hacks. For example, that hemorrhoid cream gets rid of bags under the eyes. What are bloggers advising to do right now? Rubbing your face with a banana peel. They say it can get rid of wrinkles and replace the need for neurotoxins like Botox. Sounds wild, right? Does banana peel really help get rid of wrinkles?
At first we weren't sure about it, but the number of people on the platform who claim that it really works has made us think twice. MigNews will share the opinion of experts so you know whether you should believe these claims.
Does banana peel help get rid of wrinkles
Simply put, yes, there are benefits to rubbing a banana peel on your skin. But TikTok bloggers are not entirely right. “There is no specific scientific research that supports the use of banana peels for the face or skin in general,” says dermatologist Kunal Malik. “We know that banana peels contain a variety of bioactive compounds, including antioxidants such as ascorbic acid, carotene, and cyanidin. And antioxidants protect the skin from inflammation and damage.”
Additionally, Dr. Malik adds, “Banana peels are also rich in tannins and vitamin A, which is found in retinols and retinoids. Both of these compounds can be beneficial for toning and tightening the skin.”
However, despite the presence of these beneficial ingredients, Dr. Malik says that they are unlikely to provide any benefits when used in this form. “The reality is that the skin-beneficial compounds found in banana peels are most likely not absorbed by the skin at a molecular level. And any topical effects, if any, will be short-lived and temporary. It is better to eat bananas than to apply them to the skin.”
Is banana peel safe for your skin?
If you want to try rubbing a banana peel all over your face in the hopes that it will reduce wrinkles, experts say you can safely go for it. But with one caveat. “There’s nothing dangerous about using banana peel on your face,” says dermatologist Greta Yadav. Unlike the lemon skin-lightening hack, banana peels are acid-free and non-irritating.”
It goes without saying that anyone with a banana allergy should avoid this procedure. “An allergic reaction to banana peels will cause inflammation, which can lead to persistent hyperpigmentation that is difficult to treat,” says Dr. Malik.
Does Banana Peel Help Get Rid of Wrinkles: A Comparison to Botox
The short answer? No. “Any topical ingredient, especially banana peel, is unlikely to have an effect comparable to a neurotoxin like Botox for reducing wrinkles,” says Dr. Malik.
Greta Yadav agrees, adding, “While topicals help reduce the appearance of wrinkles on the surface, neurotoxins like Botox prevent the muscles under the skin from contracting and creating those wrinkles in the first place.”
Proven Wrinkle Remedies to Try Instead
“Botox is the most effective treatment for wrinkles,” says Dr. Nina Sedigi. “The results usually last three to four months. And it's also a preventative treatment because it works by addressing the underlying cause of wrinkles, which is facial muscle activity.”
In addition to using neurotoxins to treat wrinkles, both Dr. Malik and Dr. Yadav say they recommend a skin care regimen that includes vitamin C, retinoids, and sunscreen. “Retinoids are the only class of ingredients that have been clinically proven to reverse the signs of aging by promoting new collagen formation and stimulating cell turnover,” says Dr. Yadav.
“Vitamin C also triggers the production of new collagen, protecting the skin from damaging free radicals. And sunscreen is essential to protect your skin from UV rays.”
Can eating bananas affect your skin?
The potassium in bananas not only hydrates your skin but also strengthens your skin barrier. Source: pexels.com
Are you determined to incorporate bananas into your daily routine? Dr. Malik and Dr. Yadav agree that eating them may be the best option. “Bananas are a valuable part of a balanced diet,” says Dr. Yadav. “They are rich in potassium, which helps balance the body’s hydration. And hydrated skin looks brighter and healthier than dehydrated skin.”
Nowadays, many are also praising hyaluronic acid. Find out what it is and how it can help your skin.
