Synonymous with summer, watermelon is not just the base of a great daiquiri or fresh feta salad, but also a skincare ingredient to have on your radar. The latest in the long line of Korean imports, watermelon is now having its moment on the world stage.
Like its name suggests, watermelon is packed full of H20 (96% to be precise), however its benefits go way beyond hydration – it’s also bursting with a cocktail of skin-nourishing ingredients. “The citrulline, an amino acid, improves blood circulation and works as a natural exfoliator, while lycopene, a phytonutrient, is an anti-inflammatory,” explains renowned facialist Su-Man. Suitable for all skin types, watermelon is particularly beneficial for people prone to breakouts, redness or dry and flaky skin but it could also come in handy for battling fine lines. “Rich in antioxidants that protect the body from free radicals, watermelon is great at treating the signs of ageing,” Su-Man says.
The serious buzz around this juicy pink fruit can be traced back to Korean beauty brand Glow Recipe's Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask. Utilising watermelon’s hydrating powers, this breathable sleeping mask has gained a cult following for its skin-softening and glow-giving properties. With a wait list of 5,000 people, and currently only available stateside, here in the UK we’re going to have to make do with an alternative. Thankfully, there are options aplenty.
For a DIY (and bargain) approach you can simply use chilled slices of watermelon as a makeshift face mask. Ideal for sun-parched or irritated skin, the watermelon will instantly cool and soothe. Or if you fancy something a little more hi-tech, turn to one of a number of products enriched with watermelon. From an exfoliating skin polish to a brightening toner, these are our favourites…
Inspired by royal beauty rituals of times gone by, this heavenly scented toner contains a mix of fresh fruit and precious essential oils. Watermelon, papaya, rose and tomato work to gently increase cell turnover and tone the skin, leaving it revitalised and glowing.
Uma Ultimate Brightening Rose Toner, £50, available at Cult Beauty
A cooling combination of watermelon and cucumber makes this an ideal body moisturiser for hot-weather holidays. Super light and non-greasy, it sinks in in a matter of minutes while also being super nourishing and hydrating. Top tip: place in fridge and use as an after-sun.
Elemental Herbology Watermelon & Cucumber Moisturiser, £22, available at Elemental Herbology
For those days when your skin feels dull or a little lacklustre, this exfoliating polish will come to the rescue. The potent fruit blend of watermelon, papaya and pomegranate extracts works like magic to gently smooth away dull, dry skin for an instantly brighter complexion.
Su-Man Refining Facial Polish, £38, available at Su-man
A true godsend for dry and cracked lips, this all-natural balm harnesses the powers of watermelon extract, shea butter and jojoba oil. The distinctly watermelon taste will transport you to sunnier climes – whatever the weather – and the packaging is a chic, minimalist dream.
Grown Alchemist Vanilla & Watermelon Lip Balm, £14, available at Feel Good Matters
Enriched with Origins’ lychee and watermelon hydra-sustain complex, this moisturiser is seriously thirst-quenching for dehydrated skin. Lightweight and oil-free, it's perfect for combination-skin types.
Origins Make A Difference Plus Rejuvenating Treatment, £35, available at Origins
This botanical blend of watermelon, apple and lentil offers a two-pronged approach to hydration – it provides immediate comfort while also improving the skin's ability to retain moisture. Layer under your moisturiser or SPF if you want to to tackle dryness, flakiness and rough patches.
Murad Hydro-Dynamic Quenching Essence, £65, available at Murad
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