IN a world of natural remedies and DIY skincare hacks, banana peel has gained a reputation as an alternative to Botox. From claims of tightening fine lines to lightening dark spots, beauty influencers across the internet have touted its benefits. However, aesthetics doctor and skin expert Dr Ahmed El Muntasar is raising a red flag against these claims.
He even thinks that using banana peels on your skin might do more harm than good. Banana peels are rich in vitamins A, B, C and E, and they contain potassium, zinc, iron and manganese. The appeal of using banana peels directly on the skin lies in the topical application of these nutrients.
DIY skincare advocates claim that rubbing the inside of a banana peel on your skin will help them absorb - resulting in a youthful, fresher complexion. But Dr Ahmed warns it may cause rashes and acne. “The ‘banana Botox’ trend is misleading,” he explains.
“Standard Botox works by reducing movement and paralyses the muscle. “There’s nothing in bananas that paralyses muscle. “However, it does have lutein which is an agent that helps with hydration and softens the skin.
“Saying this, if you are prone to sensitive skin then you definitely need to be careful that it won't cause a reaction.” Banana peels contain compounds that can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Symptoms can range from mild redness and itching to severe swelling and hives.
“As the skin can be quite greasy, it could cause a breakout for those who .
