When it comes to anti-aging, all of the treatments, serums and facials to preserve one’s youth can add up—but a few innovative TikTok users have claimed that there’s no need for expensive cosmetics or pricey procedures. Instead, many have urged those at home looking for an anti-aging remedy to turn to their fruit bowl. “Banana peel Botox,” as some have named it, is all the rage with TikTok DIYers and beauty influencers. Here, we break down how to use banana peels for anti-aging and dive into what the pros have said about whether it really works.
“Time may seem like an illusion, but its impact on your body is very real. As far as your body is concerned, time goes both ways,” says Dr. Sofia Din, a board-certified family physician, geriatrician, and expert in anti-aging and wellness. Thankfully, if you live in a first-world country, you have access to medical advances […]
Nature’s botox: Does rubbing a banana peel on your face have anti-aging benefits?
Over the last few years, you may have seen videos making the rounds on TikTok of women rubbing the inside of banana peels over their skin, claiming that the benefits and tightening effects are similar to that of Botox, an injectable that smooths the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. So, can a piece of fruit really have those same effects? In many of the videos posted to social media, users would argue that the answer is yes, with commenters often sharing their own experiences rubbing the peels on their skin for a few minutes a day, resulting in a tighter feel. However, skincare professionals might see things differently. The origin of this claim comes from the fact that banana peels contain an antioxidant called lutein, which enthusiasts believe can improve the texture of your skin when rubbed on your face—though dermatologists are now debunking this theory.
These simple strategies fake the look of pricey Botox injections for pennies
Elvira Kashapova/Getty Images
Dermatologists break it down
“The claim that banana peels can be used as a substitute for Botox are largely based on the premise that they carry an antioxidant called lutein,” says Dr. May Hall, a double board-certified dermatologist who makes content on TikTok under the name Dr. Wrinkle Stopper. “However, there’s no evidence to support that applying this topically, it’s actually going to penetrate into your skin.”
From eye creams to patches to rollers, discover the easiest ways to fade these wrinkles fast
So are there any benefits at all? Some professionals argue that this TikTok trend isn’t entirely moot. TikTok user @carlymusleh, a cosmetic chemist, shared a few benefits of this trend outside of lutein in a video she posted on the platform. “Banana peels are rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that can benefit your skin in many ways,” she explains. The peels contain Vitamin C as well, she says, which could potentially help with fading dark spots and blemishes, as well as potassium, which is good for hydration. However, she does warn people considering this hack to avoid it if you have a latex allergy, as bananas contain chitinase, which can irritate those with latex allergies, as well as to avoid if you have a banana allergy, and concludes by saying that despite some benefits, it won’t provide the same muscle-relaxing abilities as real Botox.
Wachiwit/Getty Images
How to use a banana peel on your skin
Curious to try the trend? While “banana Botox” might not really be a thing, many have claimed to notice positive results when using a banana peel on their skin. Here’s how TikTokers are using banana peels as part of their skincare routine:
Choose a ripe banana—ideally one that’s just turned yellow (not overly brown).
Gently wash and dry your face to remove dirt, oil or makeup before application.
Peel the banana and cut the peel into manageable strips.
Rub the inside of the peel on your skin (the soft, fibrous part) in circular motions for 2 to 5 minutes.
Let the residue sit on your face for about 10 to 15 minutes.
Rinse with lukewarm water and follow with your usual moisturizer.
Many suggest repeating this once a day for best results.
As always, use caution when testing out new products or at-home remedies on your skin, and consult with your dermatologist before making any significant changes to your skincare routine.
If you’re concerned, try a patch test first—especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies. That means trying it on a small patch of your skin and waiting 24 hours before trying it on your whole face.
Looking for more beauty stories? Click through below!
All comments are subject to our Community Guidelines. Woman's World does not endorse
the opinions and views shared by our readers in our comment sections. Our comments section is a place
where readers can engage in healthy, productive, lively, and respectful discussions. Offensive language,
hate speech, personal attacks, and/or defamatory statements are not permitted. Advertising or spam is
also prohibited.
Use left and right arrow keys to navigate between menu items.
Use right arrow key to move into submenus.
Use escape to exit the menu.
Use up and down arrow keys to explore.
Use left arrow key to move back to the parent list.
Create a free account to access exclusive content, play games, solve puzzles, test your pop-culture knowledge and receive special offers.Already have an account? Login
