Last Updated on May 24, 2023 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that massaging white part of banana peel with rose water can cure acne, fight ageing, cure scars and makes skin glowing. We fact checked and found the claim to be Half True.
The Claim
An Instagram account named “beautycar_e_” with 63.1k followers recently shared an image suggesting that massaging the white part of a banana peel with four drops of rose water for two minutes every day can aid in treating acne, combat aging, heal scars, and enhance the skin’s radiance. This particular post has received 2234 likes till we last checked. The account regularly shares do-it-yourself (DIY) tips related to health and wellness.
Fact Check
What are the contents present in a banana peel?
Banana peel is a rich source of bioactive compounds. These compounds have numerous benefits, especially phenolic and non-phenolic antioxidants like ascorbic acid, carotene, and cyanidin. These antioxidants are crucial in preventing inflammation. They do it by inhibiting reactive oxygen species, protecting protease inhibitors from oxidative damage, and preventing fibroblasts degradation. Banana peel also contains anti-inflammatory agents like trigonelline, isovanillic acid, and ferulic acid. Trigonelline can inhibit bacterial enzymes and nucleic acid synthesis. While isovanillic acid suppresses TNF-α production induced by LPS. Ferulic acid suppresses proinflammatory signalling and cytokine production.
How can banana peels aid in the cure of acne?
No evidence shows that rubbing banana peel remove acne. But it can help prevent acne proliferation. A research paper published in 2022 shows that banana peel has potential anti-inflammatory properties. But we need more research that can confirm banana peel can cure acne.
In 2018, a study was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of banana peel in treating acne vulgaris. Before the application of banana peel, 62.2% (28) of the subjects had mild acne vulgaris. Moreover, 33.3% (15) had moderate acne vulgaris and 4.4% (2) had severe acne vulgaris. The researchers instructed the subjects to rub ripe banana peel on their acne and leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour. This process was repeated daily for seven days. After the application of banana peel, the prevalence of mild, moderate, and severe acne vulgaris remained the same at 62.2% (28), 33.3% (15), and 4.4% (2), respectively. However, the study also found that 57.9% of the subjects who previously had moderate acne vulgaris had their acne recede to mild acne vulgaris. The Wilcoxon signed rank test showed a significant difference in the efficacy of banana peel in treating acne vulgaris.
This experimental study conducted on 45 female participants revealed that the application of banana peel had a significant effect on reducing the severity of acne vulgaris. However, we need more research to verify this result.
How can banana peels make skin glowing?
Banana peels contain Lutein and zeaxanthin, one of the powerful antioxidants. A study was conducted that aimed to investigate the impact of lutein and zeaxanthin isomers supplements on skin lightening and tone in humans. The study involved 60 healthy women who were given either a placebo or a daily supplement with 10 mg of lutein and 2 mg of zeaxanthin isomers for 12 weeks. The researchers measured skin tone and lightening through a Mexameter device and standardized photography. The results showed a significant improvement in overall skin tone and lightening in the treatment group compared to the placebo group, with an increase in skin yellowness and a decrease in skin redness. The authors suggested that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of lutein and zeaxanthin isomers might be responsible for the benefits. They also noted the potential of these supplements as a safe and effective way to improve skin health and appearance. However, we need more studies to confirm the results and determine the ideal dosage and duration of supplementation. It’s also essential to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regime.
Does banana peel help fight ageing?
Banana peels are a cheap waste material that is found all year round in India. A recent study has found that the peel contains helpful substances called phenolics and alkaloids that fight against bacteria that cause acne, specifically Staphylococcus epidermidis. Additionally, the peel has antioxidant properties that can help prevent skin from ageing too quickly. As a result, using mashed banana peel as a skin protection agent is highly recommended, but ethical concerns should be taken into account.
Does banana peel help cure scars?
Banana peel is often promoted as a natural remedy for scar removal due to its high nutritional content and potential therapeutic benefits. It contains antioxidants such as vitamin C and lutein, which have skin-healing properties. Additionally, the peel’s enzymes and minerals are said to help reduce inflammation and promote collagen production, which can aid in the healing process of scars.
However, the effectiveness of banana peel on scars is not scientifically proven. While anecdotal evidence and traditional remedies suggest that the peel may help fade scars over time. However, we need more research that can support these claims.
Consultant Dermatologist Dr Jyothy Kannangath informs, “Fruit peels hold some of the vital health-benefiting constituents such as dietary fibre and phytonutrients like carotenoids, flavonoids, vitamins, potassium, minerals, etc. They have several health benefits if taken along with the fruit pulp. Some of the fruit peels like orange, apple, papaya, banana, kiwi and pomegranate may brighten or lighten the complexion temporarily. Even though some fruit peels have a collagen stimulating effect, I don’t think they can effectively reverse or delay the ageing process. Likewise, with a simple fruit peel we can’t treat acne scars. Scar tissue requires advanced treatments like lasers or radio frequency to make it better.”
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