In this article:
Oranges are a popular citrus fruit of the Citrus sinensis tree, which belongs to the Rutaceae family. They have a sweet, soft, pulpy, juicy, tangy-tasting flesh, covered with a bright-colored rind. While sweet-tasting oranges are more common, bitter oranges are also available.
Orange peels are often considered as waste and, more often than not, end up in the trash. However, they are rich in phytochemicals and, therefore, highly beneficial for the skin and general health.
Beauty Benefits and Cosmetic Applications of Oranges
Oranges are rich in nutrients such as vitamins A, B, and C, potassium, copper, choline, calcium, phosphorus, folate, and magnesium. (1)
They contain over 170 phytochemicals and 60 flavonoids, including hesperidin and polymethoxyflavones (PMFs). Additionally, they are rich in fiber and pectin, have low calories, and are devoid of cholesterol or saturated fats.
Due to this nutrient-dense profile, oranges are known to have the following beneficial properties and uses:
- Oranges contain powerful anti-inflammatory and antiaging compounds. (2) The high content of vitamin C in oranges is the major contributor to its antioxidative property. (3)
- Oranges exhibit various health benefits, help treat diseases, and provide nutrition. (4)(5)(6)(7)
- Oranges are widely used in beauty products for the rejuvenation of lusterless skin. However, people are generally unaware that the peel of the fruit is its most effective part for this purpose.
- Orange rinds are edible and equally as nutritious, although not as sweet as the pulp. They are a primary ingredient of commercial face masks and may be used to make homemade face packs as well. They help hydrate the skin and manage acne and pimple scars. (8)
- The powder made from dried orange peels is used in various skin care remedies for acne and acts by drying acne out. It helps manage oily skin, therefore preventing further acne breakouts, and gives a radiant glow to the skin.
- Orange peel powder can also be used to remove dead cells and dirt from the skin, unclogging the pores and removing blackheads. Thus, it is an efficient scrubbing agent.
- Oranges are industrially employed to produce fragrance ingredients, binders, absorbents, hair conditioning agents, and other similar products.
- Numerous beauty products, including soaps, skin care products, perfumes, cleansers, bath products, detergents, and hair care products, may have oranges as one of their ingredients.
DIY Orange Peel Face Mask
Orange peels have high citric acid content. Citric acid acts as an exfoliating agent and aids in the removal of dead skin cells. Orange peels are rich in potassium, which helps retain moisture, and magnesium, which acts against cellular oxidative damage responsible for skin aging.
Therefore, an orange peel mask will give you fresh-looking, radiant, and rejuvenated facial skin. Additionally, the gram flour in this mask assists in managing oily skin.
Word of caution
While generally safe and effective, orange peel masks may trigger an adverse reaction on your skin. Therefore, it is necessary to wash off the mask immediately if you get a sensation of stinging, burning, or sensitivity, instead of waiting for the stipulated time.
Additionally, people with eczema or sensitive skin should avoid using these masks as they are rich in vitamin C, which can irritate their skin.
Similarly, refrain from using orange peel masks if you have a rash, dryness, or irritation in the skin. It is imperative to seek the help of a dermatologist if your skin condition does not improve.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon orange peel powder
- 1 tablespoon gram flour
How to make:
- Put the orange peel powder in a clean bowl.
- Add in the gram flour and water.
- Combine the ingredients well to form a paste.
How to use:
- Apply an evenly thick layer of the paste to your face.
- Let it dry for 5 minutes.
- Wash your face with water.
- Use a soft cloth or towel to pat your face dry.
- Apply a water-based moisturizer.
Use this face mask twice a week for best results.
Citrus Peel Mask for Suntan Removal
A mask made by combining orange peel, almonds, oatmeal, and milk may reverse suntan damage and give a brighter tone to the skin.
Orange rinds are rich in vitamin C that helps boost collagen production, and milk hydrates the skin and aids in moisture retention. Oatmeal acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent, which soothes and rejuvenates the skin.
Almonds are rich in vitamin E and contain several vitamins and minerals, including zinc and potassium. These nuts also contain monounsaturated fats. Almonds are beneficial for the skin and hair and can also be consumed along with salads and cereals.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon orange peel powder
- 1 tablespoon ground almonds
- 1 tablespoon ground oatmeal (can be made from rolled oats)
- Milk
How to make:
- Put the ground oatmeal in a bowl.
- Grind 4–5 almonds and add 1 tablespoon of the powder into the bowl.
- Add in the orange peel powder and milk.
- Mix the ingredients well to form a thick paste.
How to use:
- Using an applicator brush, apply the mask to your face.
- Allow it to dry for 20–25 minutes.
- Wash your face with water.
Use this mask two to three times a week. It may be used daily for faster results.
Useful Tips
Here are a few easy ways to make, store, and apply the orange peel powder for best results:
- Orange peel powder can be made by grinding sun-dried orange peels in a blender.
- The remaining powder can be stored in a clean glass jar for further use.
- Orange peel powder can also be utilized as a natural cleanser. For this, form a paste by mixing the powder and water, and apply the paste to your skin. Allow it to dry and rinse with lukewarm water.
- For optimum results, steam your face before applying orange peel masks to help open the pores.
Final Word
Oranges have copious amounts of vitamin C, which is beneficial for your general health. While consuming oranges has its health benefits, its rinds are also highly beneficial. They impart a natural glow to the skin and are a natural beauty enhancer.
- Was this article helpful?
- YES, THANKS!NOT REALLY
