Why are People Rubbing Banana Peels on Their Faces?

One of the latest trends circulating on TikTok is people rubbing empty banana peels on their faces. It is said to tighten sagging skin, brighten complexion, and reduce wrinkles, with some even claiming that it can produce Botulinum toxin-like results. But is there any truth to this trend? Is there evidence to support what it promises to do?

Continue reading as our aesthetic clinic in Singapore dives a little deeper into this trend and why are people saying it works like Botulinum toxin and improves the overall appearance of your skin. 

What’s the deal with banana peels?

Banana peels may often be discarded, but they are actually rich in nutrients. This could be the origin of the latest trend, with people hoping that the nutrients in the peels can benefit the skin. The peels are packed with antioxidants and vitamins commonly found in skincare products, which might improve the skin’s appearance.  

Banana peels contain tannins and vitamin A, which is found in retinol and is known for helping reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, they have antioxidants like carotene and ascorbic acid (vitamin C), which can help protect the skin from free radical damage.  

While the peels do have some beneficial compounds, it’s unlikely they’re present in high enough concentrations to produce noticeable, lasting changes to the skin. In addition, simply rubbing the peels on your skin doesn’t ensure that the nutrients are absorbed at a molecular level. While some might claim to see instant results, these effects are short-lived.

Are banana peels safe to use on the skin?

Compared to other DIY hacks, banana peels may seem safe because they are neither harsh nor acidic. You may try and see it for yourself, but know that you cannot rely on it to improve your skin concerns. If you, however, are prone to allergies and other skin conditions, it is better to avoid this trend. 

Those with banana allergies, of course, should stay away from this hack. The peels, moreover, can be somewhat abrasive, which might cause irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin. There may also be microbes or pesticides on these peels, which can potentially cause irritation or breakouts.

Can it erase wrinkles?

There is no scientific evidence to support that banana peels can erase wrinkles or improve the appearance of your skin. The same is also true for the claim that it can mimic the effects of botulinum toxin. Eating bananas is actually more beneficial for overall health than rubbing the peels on your skin. 

The peels may offer temporary plumping or hydration, but to say that it can be an alternative to botulinum toxin is misleading. Banana peels only affect the surface of the skin, while botulinum toxin targets the muscles responsible for creating those wrinkles. Rubbing the peels is not the same as blocking the nerve signal to relax the muscles. 

What to try instead

If you’re bothered with fine lines and wrinkles, botulinum toxin provides much better results than banana peels. It works by temporarily freezing the muscles responsible for wrinkles to smooth them out and give you an energized appearance. Botulinum toxin is US FDA-approved for:

• Horizontal forehead lines
• Frown lines between the brows
• Crow’s feet or winkles in the corner of the eyes
• Platysma bands or vertical lines on the neck

We also have Laser Skin Rejuvenation, which is a non-invasive treatment that stimulates the skin’s natural processes to improve its tone, texture, and clarity. It gently heats the skin well below the dermis to stimulate collagen production and improve various concerns, including:

• Sun damage
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Facial redness and spider veins
• Enlarged pores
• Brown spots

You can also benefit from skincare formulas with retinoids, peptides, and vitamin C. Our 20% Vitamin C with Ferulic Acid is a potent anti-oxidizing formula enriched with antioxidants. It protects the skin from environmental damage, as well as reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and evens skin tone for a brighter complexion.

Book a consultation with us

If you want to learn more about safe and effective anti-wrinkle treatments, reach out to Cutis Medical Laser Clinics in Singapore today. Contact us via WhatsApp at +65 9780 2079 to find out how we can help and schedule a consultation with one of our aesthetic doctors.