Cucumbers aren’t just a salad staple, they’re also a powerhouse of water and nutrients that our skin and body absolutely adore. For the body, they’re ace at helping to lower blood sugar levels and supply us with antioxidants; and are full of fibre, vitamins, and minerals to keep us ticking along nicely.
But the benefits don’t stop there, oh no they don’t! Cucumber is a godsend for our skin and complexion, supplying it with a plethora of benefits to keep it looking plump, smooth, and just, well, fabulous darling. Read on for the lowdown on why cucumber is our skin saviour.
Great Stuff To De-Puff
We’ve all been there: staring at ourselves in the mirror after a night tossing and turning (or on the dance floor), and wondering if anyone’s eyes have ever looked so puffy. While many eye creams are said to be able to help deflate these dark clouds, there’s actually a much simpler option waiting for you in the fridge. Cooled cucumber is full of the compound Ascorbic Acid- which actively works to prevent water retention. This means that cucumber can reduce swelling and puffiness under the eyes, and can cool the skin to help soothe any irritation.
Plus, due to the high levels of antioxidants and silica in cucumbers, they can also be used to brighten and lighten dark circles under the eyes- something worth remembering if your Tuesday night turned into more than ‘one little drink with work friends’.
We suggest: Placing chilled slices of cucumber over the eyes for 15-20 minutes to refresh puffy and tired eyes and brighten dark circles.
Prefer a product?: Lush Cucumber Eye Pads
Crystal Clear Cuke
Sick of trying every spot treatment on the market? Cucumbers have a mild astringency can be a miracle for removing excess dead skin cells and oils from the skin and tightening the pores to help reduce breakouts on the skin. Plus, the anti-inflammatory and soothing effect of cucumber can help to ease pain, redness, and irritation caused by sun damage, bites, and rashes. Sounds like a godsend for holidays abroad.
We suggest: Rubbing Cucumber directly onto the skin- on spots, rashes, etc, to help to soothe and cleanse the area.
We suggest: Mixing Cucumber water (get this from blending then straining cucumber) with a couple of drops of tea tree oil to make an acne-busting toner.
Prefer a product?: Kiehl’s Cucumber Herbal Toner
Soothe Baby Soothe
There’s little worse than looking down at a pair of sunburnt legs and knowing how much pain you’re going to be in for the foreseeable future- let alone the horrendous peeling to ensue. The great news is that the antioxidant and cooling properties of cucumber are renowned for being great at cooling and soothing hot, sunburnt skin and aiding in speeding recovery.
We suggest: Blend cold cucumber (skin and all) until it forms a smooth paste, then apply to any sunburnt areas of the skin. This should help to soothe the sunburn pain and reduce inflammation. Aloe vera gel can also be added to enhance the healing properties of the paste.
Prefer a product?: Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber Gel Mask
Moisture Maker
Cucumber is almost drinkable- being 96% water, meaning it can be fantastic for providing our body with water, but cant actually hydrate and moisturise our skin alone. It does make an excellent base to other moisturising options, such as creams or natural aloe or honey, however, so we won’t be weirded out if you decide to rub it all over your face. You do you.
We suggest: Mixing the water from half of an unpeeled cucumber with two tablespoons of aloe vera gel. Massage into your face and let it sit for 15 minutes before washing it off with lukewarm water.
Prefer a product?: Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Pore Remedy Moisturiser
Stop The Clocks
Not only is cucumber full of vitamin C which is great for stimulating new cell growth thus keeping your skin fresh and new, but it also contains folic acid which is a fantastic protectant against environmental toxins that often cause wrinkles and premature aging. Plus, they’re super high in antioxidants which we all know are the real skin saviours- reducing inflammation on the skin and keeping wrinkles at bay. Who knew that so much goodness could fit into the 4% of cucumber that wasn’t water?
We suggest: Mix a pureed half-cucumber with two tablespoons of plain yoghurt, apply to the skin and leave for 15 minutes before rinsing with warm water. Here cucumber’s antioxidative benefits and yoghurt’s exfoliating properties mix to give your skin an ultra-cleansing, hydrating, and age-slowing treatment.
Prefer a product?: Mokann Body Balm Melon & Cucumber
Is Cucumber a Skin Saviour?
So, is cucumber a skin saviour to you? It definitely is to us! I mean, let’s make this clear: you can’t live off it alone, and no food is a superfood if it’s the only thing you eat, but it sure is healthful alongside a varied diet. Trying to add more cucumber into your diet and skincare regime has been proven to show benefits, plus it’s all-natural and incredibly low calorie. What have you got to lose?
From crudités to salads, we love cucumbers here at Balance Box, and we’ll supply you with all the nourishment alongside it to fulfil your nutrition and make your diet healthier. With fresh meals made and delivered to your door, Balance Box meals are an easy way to reach your health goals. Interested? Find your perfect menu here.