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More than just a delicious fruit, papaya is a source of nutrients with a number of health benefits.
According to a 2013 paper, the many benefits of papaya can be attributed to the high content of vitamins A, B, and C. Its proteolytic enzymes, such as papain and chymopapain also have antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.
Papayas have gained popularity as a natural home treatment, and for their use in skin and hair products. Their benefits vary and are summarized in the table below.
| Skin benefits | Hair benefits |
| wrinkle reduction | conditioner |
| acne control | hair growth |
| melasma treatment | dandruff prevention |
Papaya is rich in antioxidants, such as lycopene, that may defend against the visible signs of aging.
A
According to a
Papaya may also help improve the elasticity of your skin according to
A
The enzymes papain and chymopapain in papaya can decrease inflammation. The protein-dissolving papain can be found in many exfoliating products. These products help reduce acne by removing dead skin cells that can clog pores.
Papain can also remove damaged keratin that can build up on the skin and form small bumps. A
Papaya is also rich in vitamin A. Although it’s believed that vitamin A might play a role in the development and treatment of acne, the impact of diet on acne remains unclear.
Retinol, a topical form of vitamin A, can help treat and prevent inflammatory acne lesions.
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Papaya is a popular home remedy for melasma. Proponents of natural healing suggest that the enzymes, beta-carotene, vitamins, and phytochemicals in papaya have skin lightening properties.
Although unsubstantiated by clinical research, they claim that these qualities — combined with the clinically proven action of papain in dissolving inactive protein — can lighten and soften the skin.
Daily application of cold-pressed papaya seed oil may help lighten dark spots. Buy it online.
According to a
You can create a papaya hair conditioning mask by mixing together:
- 1/2 ripe papaya
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1 tbsp. honey
Apply the mask to damp hair and let it sit for 30 to 40 minutes. Then rinse, shampoo, and condition your hair as you normally would.
Not in the mood to mix yourself? Shop for papaya hair masks here.
According to a
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One of the main causes of dandruff is a yeast-like fungus known as malassezia. A
Try a papaya deep treatment hair mask for dandruff control. Buy one online, like this one from Papaya & Pineapple.
Papaya can offer benefits for both skin and hair, including:
- wrinkle reduction
- acne control
- melasma treatment
- hair conditioning
- hair growth
- dandruff control
If you’re considering using papaya for your skin or hair, talk with a doctor or dermatologist before using. This is always a good idea prior to starting any new skin or hair treatment. Your doctor can recommend products and treatments that work well for your hair and skin type.
