Yes, you heard us right. The plump and juicy fruit that you lovingly add in your salads, masala omelettes, curries, soups and stir-fries can also serve as a miraculous ingredient for your beauty needs. Regular use of tomato can work wonders to keep your skin looking young and fresh while tackling acne, sunburn, skin rashes and dull looking skin. This is all because of a powerful antioxidant known as lycopene that brings about an anti-ageing effect by fighting free radicals and cellular damage.
What's more? Tomato is also known for its skin hydrating and nourishing properties, and is a great source of vitamins A, C and K. So besides including it in your regular diet, you should also use it to create refreshing face packs and cleansers. Here's how:
Tomato + Aloe Vera
Summers can get quite nasty, making your skin lose its fresh look. This is the reason why you need to cleanse your skin as soon as you get back home. A great way to instantly feel refreshed is to use this easy tomato and aloe vera face pack. All you need to do is mash a ripe tomato and mix it with one teaspoon of aloe vera gel. Using a cotton dab, apply it evenly all over your face and neck. Let it rest for 10 minutes before rinsing with cool water.
Tomato + Besan
It's really amazing that most of the ingredients that you stock in your kitchen can be used to pamper your skin and keep it beautiful. A perfect case in point is besan or gram flour. Besan has antimicrobial properties and is known to remove dirt and toxins from deep within the skin. Mix one tablespoon of besan, one mashed tomato, half a cup of yoghurt and a pinch of turmeric and apply it on your face and neck. Leave it on for 15 minutes and then wash.
Tomato + Honey
Both the ingredients are known for their astringent properties that help in maintaining the skin's natural pH and keeping it healthy. Mix one tablespoon honey with one mashed tomato and apply it on your skin. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing it.
Tomato + Lemon Juice
Looking for a quick face cleanser? Mix one tablespoon lemon juice with one mashed tomato and apply it on your face in circular motion. The acidity in tomatoes will help in reducing acne.
If you can't get hold on any other ingredient except tomatoes, worry not. It's good enough on its own. Slice it or make a mash and apply it on your skin to clean the pores and bring back your natural glow.