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Why Is Pineapple Extract the Beauty Industry’s New Obsession?
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You’re likely to have indulged in a slice of a pineapple upside down cake, added pineapple to a fruit salad for those health benefits, or maybe dabbled in a chilled pineapple daiquiri every once in a while, but what about pineapple skin care? Yep, we didn’t think so, but it’s about to become the beauty industry’s latest must-have.
Arguably fuelled most recently by the viral beauty guru Hailey Bieber and the Rhode Pineapple Refresh Cleanser from her own brand – which we adored by the way – it put the discussion around the skin benefits of pineapple in motion, with experts praising its triple action qualities.
While the nutrients in fruits have long been praised for promoting healthy skin, with various fruit extracts used in skin care products over for years, just what is it about pineapple that has got brands excited? We asked the experts to answer the most pressing tropical fruit questions, with everything you need to know about the fruity exfoliant and how pineapple has become the ingredient du jour.
What Does Pineapple Extract Do in Skin Care?
Pineapple extract is the three-in-one skin care ingredient you’ve been searching for. It can exfoliate your skin while serving as a protective antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory qualities. It’s famed for being the most potent form of vitamin C, and is also known for its abundance in salicylates, which “helps the skin shed dead cells from the top layer, and as a result, decreases inflammation,” Dr Anna Protasova, dermatologist and GP at Evolution Aesthetics Clinic tells POPSUGAR. Essentially, it’s this powerful combination that makes pineapple extract so desirable and particularly beneficial for acne-prone or congested skin.
Consultant dermatologist Dr Magnus Lynch adds that pineapple extract contains bromelain, which is “an enzyme that can digest skin cells, which can be an effective exfoliant helping to remove dead skin cells.”
Pineapple extract is safe to be combined with skin care ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). As a matter of fact, Dr Protasova says you can maximise the benefits of these ingredients by working them into your routine with pineapple extract.
Are There Any Negatives to Pineapple Extract?
As with any skin care products, there are some caveats. Dr Lynch advises against using pineapple extract with other active ingredients such as salicylic acid or vitamin C as this may cause irritation.
Pineapple extract could have different effects depending on the temperament of your skin, too. “Pineapple extract contains bromelain,” Dr Protasova shares, “which may trigger sensitivity, especially for delicate skin. Furthermore, it can heighten skin sensitivity to sunlight.” So make sure you’re wearing that SPF after using.
Products infused with pineapple extract claim to be safe for most skin types to use, however, she encourages those with conditions like rosacea to use the extract cautiously and consult a dermatologist for advice. Dr Lynch echoes this, adding: “If you’re allergic to pineapple and other fruits, you should not use pineapple extract. Similarly, you should also be careful if you have sensitive skin.”
Pineapple Beauty Products
rhodeskin.com
Rhode Pineapple Cleanser
Start your skin care routine off strong with Hailey Bieber’s cleanser, courtesy of her brand, Rhode Skin. The cleanser can be used daily, in the morning and evenings before other products. It uses pineapple enzyme to exfoliate, as well as green tea extract to calm irritation, and polyglutamic acid (PGA) to moisturise. Beauty writer Renee Roderiguez loved the surprising balm-to-foam texture after trying the cleanser, so it’s definitely worth trying.
theglowceryshop.com
Glowcery Milk Cleanser
The Glowcery Shop’s Milk Cleanser harnesses the exfoliating propeties of papaya and pineapple enzymes to remove makeup, SPF and daily impurities. This oil to milk cleanser nourishes all skin types and leaves your skin cleansed and ready for the next steps in your skincare routine.
lucybee.com
Lucy Bee Pineapple Face Mask
This face mask is enriched with pineapple enzyme for exfoliating and unclogging purposes. Apply the translucent gel to your face and neck, after cleansing, to extract any trapped sebum and dirt from your pores. Rinse after 10-15 minutes and your skin will be left feeling free and smooth.
boots.com
Garnier Pineapple Sheet Mask
Garnier has hydration down to a T, especially in its popular sheet masks, but for an extra brightening and re-energising effect, I really rate the pineapple sheet mask. I tried it out after a long day at work and found that the Garnier mask rejuvenated my skin in just five minutes, injecting it with hydration, resulting in a healthy glow.
mallowsbeauty.co.uk
Mallow Beauty Pineapple Enzyme Toner
Harness the power of pineapple enzymes to tackle blemishes with this toner. It prevents further breakouts with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Lightly soak a cotton pad after cleansing your skin and gently apply over the face and neck, avoiding delicate eye areas. Use the toner daily for the best results.
qandaskin.com
Q+A Ceramide Barrier Defence Face Cream
Boasting ceramides that are sustainably extracted from pineapples, this face cream promises to moisturise, brighten, and protect all skin types, while improving skin firmness and boosting hydration. Use it as the last step in your skin care routine, and always apply your trusty SPF after.
qandaskin.com
Q+A Ceramide Pineapple Body Lotion
This body lotion, massaged into dry skin, is ideal if you’re keen on giving every inch of your skin some TLC, as it’s packed full of moisturising squalane, barrier-protecting sugar complex, and, of course, anti-ageing pineapple ceramides.
cultbeauty.co.uk
Glow Recipe Pineapple Serum
We couldn’t forget about Glow Recipe’s contribution to pineapple skincare. It might be more of a payday treat than a whimsical purchase, but it packs a powerful glow punch thanks to the 22 percent pineapple juice to combat acne scars, dark spots, and hyper-pigmentation leaving skin glossy and even. Start with 1-2 drops on clean skin, gently patting the serum in for optimal absorption. If you have sensitive skin, Glow Recipe recommends using the serum 3-4 times a week and gradually increasing usage.