May 02, 2023
From an olfactory perspective, it makes sense to put fruit extracts in bodycare. Who doesn’t want to smell fresh and zingy like an Amalfi-coast holiday? No one, that’s who. But, outside of the Euro-trip nostalgia, could those same fruit extracts be helping your skin in a similar way to it helping your body when you interest it? Let’s dig in and find out.
YUZU
The Yuzu, a citrus fruit, of East Asian origin has been popping up in skincare and body care products everywhere. Not surprisingly, being a part of that family means it’s a source of vitamin C, which of course means it’s rich in antioxidants. Topically, this can help fight free radical damage (the thing than accelerates ageing) but its natural acids can also help with water retention to keep the skin hydrated, plump and soft.
Find it in: Infinite She Japanese Yuzu and Vetiver Body Wash, $22.95
PAPAYA
The tropical fruit papaya, native to Southern Mexico and Central America has been a beloved ingredient in multi-purpose balms (specifically lip balms) for years. It contains an enzyme called papain which encourages natural exfoliation of the skin, making it smoother and brighter. It also has antioxidant benefits, thanks to its vitamin C and A content, and perhaps most famously, has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated skin.
Find it in: Noosa Basics All Skin Type Natural Foaming Face Wash, $26
COCONUT
Coconut, or more specifically, coconut oil, has fallen in and out of favour over years as an ingredient. On one hand, the molecular structure means that in skincare it’s comedogenic, meaning it will clog pores, so for oily and acne-prone skin, it’s advised to stay away. On the other hand in body, bath and haircare products its an absolute winner. That’s because it’s rich in fatty acids (great for skin barrier nourishment and protection) and has both antibacterial and anti inflammatory properties and it’s an A++ moisturiser which is excellent for your body skin which is thicker and drier than your face.
Find it in: Badger Balm Coconut After Sun Balm, $29.95; Badger Balm Pregnant Belly Oil, $39.95
ORANGE
With a zesty, uplifting aroma, it’s no surprise orange is often used as an essential oil in “energy” blends. In skin products the high limonene (that is, the natural compound found in the peel of citrus fruits) content gives it antioxidant properties as well as having some natural antimicrobial qualities, which makes it do good, as well as smell good.
Find it in: Noosa Basics Sweet Orange and Lavender Natural Roll On Deodorant, $16.50
PEACH
You may be surprised by this one, because other than a delicious smell and superior juiciness, what can peach really do for us? Well, a lot actually. Peach fruit and peach leaf extracts (you’ll find that on your ingredients listing as Prunus persica) have been used for years for natural medicinal purposes (even as a morning sickness remedy) but in skincare it’s been known to boost hydration, moisturise, and even help to combat pigmentation. Like many other fruits it’s an antioxidant which means it helps to fight environmental aggressors and because it has phenolic compounds it can also help calm irritated skin. Short story: don’t overlook this peach.
Find it in: Urban Apothecary Violet Peony Hand and Body Lotion, $49.95