6 Foods That Double as Skin Care

Eat your way to more beautiful skin

By Alison Abbey · Jun 1, 2015

These foods are more than just tasty; they can give your face a heaping helping of health, too. See how incorporating these six foods into your beauty routine can give you a beautiful boost!

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Pomegranate

This natural source of antioxidants and vitamins A, E and C is a super fruit. When applied topically, pomegranate boosts the creation of collagen, giving your face a natural lift. Grind the seeds up and apply to your face to unleash the full exfoliating power of this fruit, or apply the juice to your face to make a natural cleansing toner.

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Egg Whites

Scramble the yolks, but save the whites. Egg whites are full of proteins that significantly contribute to the maintenance of skin elasticity and diminish the appearance of fine lines (not to mention collagen and vitamin A. An egg white facial tightens the skin for an instantly younger appearance. You can apply an egg white to your face directly, or mix it with a spoonful of honey to make a mask.

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Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a great fix for a number of facial flaws. They can be used as an astringent, a natural pore reducer, sunscreen and as a treatment for eczema, psoriasis and acne. Not to mention, the vitamin C in tomatoes gives your face a natural glow without adding oil to the skin. Cut the tomato in half and rub them directly on your face to get the full benefit.

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Basil

Packed with minerals and vitamins K and A, basil is known for its antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Plus, it helps fight off free radicals, which are known to cause aging. Soak basil leaves in warm water to let them soften before grinding them into a paste. Apply the paste to your face and let your skin soak up the herbal refreshment.

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Papaya

Known as a natural exfoliator, hydrating papaya works to remove dead skin cells, blemishes and dark spots to even out skin tone. Mash the inside of the papaya and apply it to the face, or rub the peel on your face for five minutes (then rinse your face with warm water) to get an extra dose of anti-aging alpha-hydroxy acids.

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Strawberries

These ruby berries have rejuvenating properties, including vitamin C, salicylic acid, antioxidants and exfoliants (applying strawberries as a mask or scrub can slough off dead skin cells and boost the production of new ones). They’re also great at soaking up oiliness and reducing under-eye puffiness; just chill the berries for 20 minutes, cut them into large slices and apply around and under your eyes.