Also known as paw paw in some parts of the world, the papaya fruit contains photolytic enzymes (papain) that are extremely beneficial for exfoliation of dead cells along with excellent moisturising and skin lightening benefits. Papain gently sloughs away dull and lackluster skin on the surface, making way for healthy new ones trapped underneath. So the skin feels satiny smooth, appears bright and looks younger and more glowing than you ever imagined.
In addition to the skin-smoothing papain enzymes, this luscious fruit also has a lot to offer in terms of skin care. Its incredibly powerful antioxidants—Vitamins A, C and E—which are not only beneficial for healthy skin growth, but also help neutralise free radicals that cause skin to age and degenerate, leading to a host of annoying skin problems such as wrinkles and fine lines, saggy and loose skin.
And if you are looking to naturally lighten freckles and get rid of age spots then papaya is the safe bet. This is because Vitamin C, which is commonly used in a wide range of skin lightening products, accelerates cell renewal to heal damaged skin while helping mature skin recover the lost luster that it once had. And, papaya is one of the richest sources of Vitamin C, even surpassing orange, grapefruit and strawberry in this regard.
Says Dr. Shobha Sehgal of VLCC: “Papaya is considered among the leading ingredients for skin lightening, nourishment and exfoliation as it contains papain, a natural enzyme that promotes cell renewal, exfoliates dead cells and nourish es the skin with Vitamins A, C, E, carotenoids and other anti-oxidants giving skin the moisture and protection it needs. It has been used to heal skin ailments such as breakouts, dry skin, cellulite and premature ageing. Peptin, a digestive enzyme when applied topically, helps dissolve the fat which help fight cellulite and make the skin smooth and radiant.”
Here are some papaya-based therapies:
Papaya-Pineapple Créme Fraiche Wrap
At Vyoma Spa, Radisson Blu Hotel,
Paschim Vihar, New Delhi
Duration: 60 minutes
Price: Rs 4,500 + taxes.
Explains Sanjana Bhandari, Manager, Vyoma Spa: “While nourishing and repairing, this exquisite tropical body wrap counteracts premature ageing and sun damage by delivering wrinkle-smoothing and rejuvenating benefits. Drenched with papaya and pineapple, it is also enriched with Crème Fraiche natural butter, calcium, a high content of Vitamin A, pomegranate extracts and other anti-ageing ingredients such as Collagen polypeptides (smoothing) and Elastin polypeptides (firming).”
The Heart of Espace At Espace Spa,
Radisson Blu MBD, Noida
Price: Rs 5,200
Duration: 140 minutes
Says Sudeshna Pal, Spa Manager: “This package consists of a papaya scrub, followed by an aromatic massage and a deep cleaning facial with papaya as the main ingredient. We use special papaya facial masks and scrubs to cure acne, tan on the face, aging skin etc. A papaya face mask is prepared with mashed papaya, honey and rice flour. Apply this mask and keep it for 15-20 minutes and apply three times a week to get a tight skin. It is the best anti-aging treatment.”
Pal further explains, “Papaya body scrub is made by mashing papaya, mixing it with salt spa, honey and olive oil. Apply the scrub. If you have open skin pores then massage with raw papaya. Papain in papaya benefits skin by exfoliating it to reveal new cells and soften at the same time.”
Papaya Pamper
At Aura Spa, The Park, New Delhi
Duration: 35 minutes
Price: Rs 2,000
Says Spa Manager Seema Nanda: “After a soothing scrub with oatmeal, papaya pack is applied on the body. This pack is ideal for people with sensitive skin.”
Papaya Body Polish
At Sawasdee Thai Spa,
Ambience Mall, Gurgaon
Duration: 45 minutes
Price: Rs 1,700
Nourishing Papaya Therapy
At Spa Soul, Galaxy Hotel, Gurgaon
Duration: 30 minutes
Price: Rs 2,500