Banana peels: The unexpected skincare secret or just another fad? A dermatologist explains

Are banana peels good for your skin? (Image: Canva)

Bananas are a staple in many households, often praised for their delicious taste and health benefits. But recently, a new skincare trend has emerged—using banana peels for the potential wonders it does for your skin. While this practice has garnered attention, is it truly effective or is it just another beauty myth?

In an interview with moneycontrol.com, Dr Seema Oberoi Lall, consultant dermatologist at CK Birla Hospital in Gurugram, weighs in on this growing trend, offering clarity on the matter.

Is banana peel good for your skin?

The idea of using banana peels for skincare isn't exactly new—it goes back generations when your grandmother would advise it as a home remedy. However, Dr Lall suggests caution. "Using banana peels for skincare has gained attention, but it's important to understand the evidence behind this practice," she says.

While banana peels do contain antioxidants, which are generally beneficial to the skin, there is currently no scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of rubbing a banana peel directly on your face. "Dermatologists often recommend specially formulated skincare products as they are designed with the correct concentrations of active ingredients to effectively target skin issues," Dr Lall advises.

The antioxidant power of banana peels

Banana peels are indeed rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C, which help combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress that can accelerate the aging process.

Despite this, Dr Lall highlights that the concentration of antioxidants in a banana peel may not be high enough to deliver significant results when applied topically. "The direct benefits on the skin remain unproven," she says.

So, while banana peels are nutritious and potentially helpful, relying on them for major skincare improvements could be a stretch.

Also Read | 9 reasons you should have a banana in your diet, from healthy heart to glowing skin, strong bones and more

Banana peels are known for their antioxidant properties. (Image: Canva)

How to use banana peel for skin

For those who are curious and want to try banana peels on their skin, Dr Lall suggests a cautious approach. "If you choose to try using banana peels on your skin, you might consider gently rubbing the inside of a clean, ripe banana peel on your face for a few minutes, then rinsing with lukewarm water," she advises.

But given the lack of scientific backing for this method, she urges people to rely on dermatologist-recommended skincare products for more reliable results.

Precautions to keep in mind

While banana peels are generally safe to use, there are a few important precautions to consider before incorporating them into your skincare routine:

• Allergic reactions: Some people may have allergies to banana peels. Dr Lall recommends performing a patch test on a small area of skin to ensure there is no adverse reaction before applying it to larger areas.
• Skin irritation: Banana peels—like many fruits—can harbour pesticides or microbes that could cause skin irritation. To avoid this, make sure the peel is thoroughly washed before use.
• Consult a dermatologist: Given the lack of definitive evidence supporting banana peels as a skincare solution, it's always best to consult a dermatologist for personalised advice, especially if you have specific skin concerns.

"Ultimately, the banana peel might not be the skincare miracle some believe it to be, but it can certainly be a fun, natural option for a bit of skin pampering—just don't expect miracles," Dr Lall concludes.

Disclaimer: This article only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific diagnosis.