Why you shouldn't throw away apple and banana peels: Skincare and health benefits you didn't know about
Apple skins are rich in fibre and antioxidants, while banana peels are becoming a DIY beauty favourite for calming skin and reducing marks. As long as you're keeping hygiene in check, washing them properly and using them mindfully, these everyday fruit peels might just be the most underrated part of your routine. A 2024 study published in the
Journal of Current Research in Food Science
even highlighted the powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of banana peels, confirming what traditional remedies have known for years: peels aren't waste, they're wellness.
Apple peels: The crisp, vitamin-loaded skin your body actually needs
Apple skins contain way more than just crunch. They're packed with dietary fibre, especially pectin, which helps regulate digestion, control blood sugar levels, and keep you feeling full longer. Alongside that, they offer vitamins A and C for skin and immune health, plus a mix of antioxidants like quercetin and polyphenols that fight inflammation and protect your cells from everyday damage. Surprisingly, most of these powerful nutrients are concentrated just beneath the skin.
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So when you peel an apple, you're not just tossing the outer layer, you're throwing away a good chunk of its health benefits. It's one of those little habits we pick up without question, but it can make a big difference. The fix? Simple. Give your apple a proper wash, ditch the peeler, and eat it whole. Whether you're snacking, blending it into a smoothie, or tossing slices into a salad, keeping the peel on adds flavour, texture, and a serious nutritional punch.
Your gut, your skin, and your energy levels will all thank you.
Banana peels: A natural glow-up for your skin
Banana peels are having a moment, and no, it's not just a random TikTok trend. This humble kitchen leftover is being rediscovered as a surprisingly effective natural skincare hack. Many people swear by using the inside of the peel to soothe irritated skin, calm redness, reduce puffiness, or even add a subtle, healthy glow. It might sound a little weird at first, but gently rubbing the soft inner side of a ripe banana peel on your face for a few minutes can actually feel soothing and refreshing.
The peel contains natural antioxidants, vitamin C, and lutein, all of which are great for skin health. Some even say it helps with light acne scars or uneven skin tone over time. Best of all, it's simple, free, and safe for most skin types. So the next time you eat a banana, don't be so quick to toss the peel. It could be a fun, feel-good addition to your natural skincare routine and your skin just might love it.
How to try banana peels at home
Here's how to keep it easy and safe:
Use a ripe banana (spotty is okay).
Wash your face and pat it dry.
Rub the inside of the peel on your skin using circular motions for about 5–10 minutes.
Let the residue sit for 10–15 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.
No harsh chemicals.
No fancy bottles. Just a peel and a few peaceful minutes. Whether you're eating apple peels or putting banana peels on your face, washing them thoroughly is non-negotiable. Fruit skins can carry dust, pesticides, and bacteria, so a good rinse (or soak in saltwater or vinegar water) is a must before use.
Most of us were taught to throw fruit peels away without a second thought. They're the leftovers, the scraps, the parts we assume have no use.
But maybe it's time to rethink that habit. Turns out, those humble apple and banana peels are packed with hidden benefits, both for your body and your skin. From added nutrients like antioxidants and fibre to simple DIY skincare tricks that can soothe, brighten, or exfoliate, these peels are far more valuable than they seem.
They're natural, free, and already in your kitchen. So the next time you reach for a fruit, don't toss the peel without thinking. You might be holding one of the simplest, most underrated wellness hacks you didn't even know you needed.
Also read|
Javitri for glowing skin- The kitchen spice that fights acne better than your overpriced serum
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