With its soft butter-like consistency, the sweet papaya, that is available throughout the year, is a rich source of nutrients and anti-oxidants, making it a favourite with women who want to have glowing skin and thick manes. Here's how you can use this fruit in your skin and hair care routine.

Skin care

Nourishes skin: Containing Vitamin A and Papain enzyme, papaya helps remove dead skin cells and inactive proteins, thus rejuvenating your skin. It also helps keep your skin hydrated. If you want glowing skin, use papaya-honey mask. Mash half a papaya and mix it with three spoons of honey to make a smooth paste. Apply it gently on your face and neck. Leave it on for 20 minutes and then rinse with cold water.

Reduces blemishes: Suffering from acne? Apply finely grounded paste of raw papaya on your face and leave it for half an hour. This will help you get rid of the unwanted blemishes on skin.

Treats cracks: Besides face, mashed papaya can also be used to treat sore and cracked heels.

Hair care

Promotes hair growth: According to studies, the nutrients in papaya help prevent balding. Eating the fruit atleast thrice a week can help reduce hair thinning.

Controls dandruff: Hair mask containing papaya can help treat dry and flaky scalp. Remove the seeds of a raw papaya and blend the fruit with half a cup of yoghurt. Leave the paste on your hair for about 30 minutes and then, rinse.

Natural conditioner: As it is rich in minerals, vitamins and enzymes, papaya acts as a natural conditioner, making your hair softer and smoother. Blend papaya, banana, yoghurt and coconut oil together into a thick paste. Apply it to damp hair. Wrap a towel or use a shower cap for half an hour to generate heat in your scalp. Rinse with warm water.

BDST: 1533 HRS, JULY-08, 2014