Apple (scientific name pyrus malus) is a well-known fruit that we have been eating for ages. It has been cultivated since 8,000 years ago and by 300 BC, the Romans started breeding them for better taste and larger size. Apples are actually from the rose family which interestingly also include other fruits such as plums, pears, peaches, strawberries, raspberries and cherries.
Aside from using it for food, apple is also used in skincare by means of using its extract. The resulting extract is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, natural acids and polyphenols. The apple fruit extract is produced in two forms :
- liquid form by washing, peeling and processing the apples first to extract the juice. The juice undergoes solvent extraction and filtration and concentration.
- powder form by washing, peeling, drying and then powdering the dried fruit.
Apple fruit extract has the following benefits :
- Anti-oxidant protection
- Anti-oxidants neutralize the free radicals in your skin that are the main cause of skin damage and signs of aging. This helps prevent the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well as soothe your skin after exposure to environmental stressors such as heat, cold and exposure the ultraviolet rays from the sun.
- Exfoliating
- The natural acids in apple extract help to exfoliate your skin, removing dirt and dead skin cells. This helps to reveal your brighter, smoother skin thus giving you a brighter complexion.
- Hydrating
- Apple extract has this inherent ability to attract and retain moisture on your skin. This gives you a hydrated and supple appearance.
Image Credits
- Apple fruit on branches
- Photo by From Marwool on Unsplash
- Apple fruit close-up
- Photo by Darius Žukas on Unsplash