For centuries, dates have been symbols of nourishment and good health. Whichever ancient civilization learned to grow the date palm found uses for it in their everyday life, from using its strong trunks to build sturdy homes to enjoying its delicious fruit for all its benefits.
Today, we know that these ancient civilizations had a keen eye for nutrient-dense foods. Recent scientific advancements have revealed the numerous skin benefits of including dates in your diet and skincare. Although dates may look unassuming, this tasty fruit is formulated with the vitamins your skin needs for that glow from within.
Read more to learn how every part of the date has surprising benefits for your skin and how you can add it to your daily life.
Expert in This Article
Dr. Tarek Shaath is a highly skilled dermatologist and the medical director of Care Dermatology.
Dissecting the Date: Why are They Beneficial?
A date is a powerhouse that is better than most artificial beauty supplements on the market. According to Dr. Tarek Shaath, a board-certified dermatologist at Care Dermatology, “Dates are a rich source of vitamin D, vitamin C, and pantothenic acid. Pantothenic acid, better known as vitamin B5, is essential for the skin’s barrier function.”
Healthline mentions that dates contain antioxidants like flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenolic acid. Antioxidants calm inflammation and strengthen overall health. So, treating yourself to some dates daily can help you fight problematic skin and signs of aging.
Additionally, date oil, extract, and its powdered pit are booster ingredients in various skincare products for their topical benefits. Researchers also note date seeds’ ability to protect against UVA and UVB radiation. So, the next time you’re at the store looking for effective skincare, check the ingredients to see if dates are on the list.
5 Sweet Advantages of Dates
Adding dates to your daily life can help you achieve glowing skin. They have benefits for both the inside and the out. Here are all the wonderful ways dates can set you on the path to great skin.
Hydration and Moisture
You might have heard of dry skin, but do you know about dehydrated skin? If you’re struggling to keep your skin moisturized, dates can help. Don’t get fooled by their shriveled appearance; dates have a high amount of moisture.
They also contain sugars that can replenish your skin cells with water. So, along with its added nutrients, dates can help overall hydration and give you plumper-looking skin.
Anti-aging properties
If you’re worried about some fine lines and wrinkles starting to show, consider having dates in your diet. Dates are a powerful source of antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and help maintain skin’s plumpness and firmness.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, dates contain plant hormones (phytohormones). They are superstars in the skincare world for their anti-aging benefits. So, dates should be your pick to maintain youthful skin.
Acne Prevention
Fighting acne is a tough battle. However, some foods can help your skin minimize acne and recover faster. Dates have many benefits for acne-prone individuals. They contain vitamin B5, which helps regulate the skin’s oil production.
Dates contain antioxidants that help prevent bacteria and calm inflammation in the body, which in turn helps calm down inflamed acne.
Sun Protection
Research indicates that date seeds have properties that can protect against UVA and UVB radiation. “They aren’t a replacement for sunscreen, but date seed powder can aid the skin in protection against damaging sun rays,” adds Dr. Tarek Shaath.
Additionally, the date’s unique mix of antioxidants neutralizes free radicals caused by sun exposure. So, by dabbing on products with the fruit’s elements, you can have fun in the sun without worry.
Reduce Scars
Out of the date’s special mix of nutrients, vitamin C can remarkably affect the skin. This is because it aids collagen production. Skin that can effectively produce collagen will improve existing scars and discoloration.
Final Thoughts
Whether you eat dates or make them a regular part of your skincare routine, dates have numerous benefits for your skin. You could benefit from using them in many ways. It could be from choosing dates as your preferred sweetener to using skincare products with dates oils and extracts.
However, like most of nature’s great fruits, dates should be considered an addition to your diet and skincare routine. They are not replacements for a nutritious diet or a dermatologist’s care, so keep that in mind. Nevertheless, they are an easy way to achieve and maintain radiant skin.
Annie Edith is an experienced journalist and content creator with a strong passion for health and wellness. She takes a unique approach to her writing, exploring the latest trends in Dental, Fitness, and mental well-being, while providing readers with informative, research-based articles.
