The Surprising Effects Of Grapefruit For Your Skin

Grapefruit is delicious, nutritious, and loaded with those all-important citrus juices. But this particular fruit is also surprisingly great for your skin, too. Boasting a range of essential vitamins and minerals, grapefruit can be eaten whole, juiced, or hollowed out and devoured depending on preference. It's incredibly easy to add to your diet.

According to a 2013 study, grapefruit is even associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, so it might have actual superpowers too. Medical News Today notes grapefruit is low on the glycemic index, meaning it provides nutrients but doesn't significantly impact our blood sugar levels, which is great news because it's super sweet but not actually bad for us (and therefore great for curbing junk food cravings). 

Aside from the reputed weight loss benefits of grapefruit, it's also a must if you're looking for healthy, naturally glowing skin, because it contains vitamin C, which is vital to the formation of collagen, i.e. the main support system of the skin and the substance people pay thousands of dollars to get injected into their faces on a regular basis.

According to a 2017 study, vitamin C also helps protect against the signs of sun damage and aging. The Healthy advises the retinol antioxidants contained in grapefruit help repair damaged skin and even fight fine lines and wrinkles. They cite a 2009 study of mice, during which spermidine, which is contained in grapefruit, was added to the animals' diets and subsequently slowed their cell aging process. Grapefruit also contains natural astringent properties to make your skin less oily and can even tighten pores.

Grapefruit may even help to get rid of the dreaded cellulite. As aromatherapist Gina Kamburowski explained to Stylecaster, the collagen helps retain elasticity in skin over time. Likewise, Kim Laudati, of Kim Laudati Skin Care & Laser, advised cutting a grapefruit in half and rubbing it in tight, circular motions while using pressure over your cellulite before hopping in the shower. "If you sleep in pajamas, you can rub a grapefruit in tight circular motions across cellulite post-shower, too," advised Laudati.

Grapefruit can also ensure your skin remains clear, glowing, and spot-free. Dr. Roshini Raj, gastroenterologist and founder of TULA skincare, explains, "Citrus fruits are a rich natural source of vitamin C, which helps destroy free radicals in your body while providing a radiant glow to your skin and rejuvenating skin from the inside." The essential oils contained in citrus fruits like grapefruit provide cleansing and anti-inflammatory benefits, too.  Grapefruit is an all-round super-food for your skin, whether you're using it from the inside — or out.