What is Papaya?
The Papaya, or Carica Papaya, is a plant grown in tropical climates. While the fruit originates from the tropics of the Americas and Mexico, Australian Papaya is generally grown in tropical north Queensland and, occasionally, in the Northern Territory.
What's the difference between Paw Paw and Papaya?
While the two are often talked about interchangeably, Paw Paw and Papaya are actually derived from two different fruits! Paw Paw and Papaya come from the same species (Carica), however Paw Paws are yellow and round whereas Papaya are red and oval-shaped. They may taste and look different, however both Papaya and Paw Paw are rich in natural skin care benefits.
Skin care benefits of Papaya
Papaya Oil, derived from the seeds of the Papaya fruit, is a potent source of Vitamins A, B and C, enzymes and omega fatty acids, allowing it to gently exfoliate the skin's surface for a brighter, more nourished complexion. Papaya Oil is also rich in antioxidants, which can help to minimise the appearance of wrinkles, increase the skin's elasticity and repair sun damage, dark spots, pigmentation and other blemishes. Papaya also contains a unique enzyme called Papain, known to help exfoliate skin in the most natural way by removing dead skin cells without abrasion. Instead, it dissolves dry skin and stimulates cell turnover for a fresh, bright complexion.
Best natural Papaya products
PURE Papaya Care Papaya GLOW Oil
Designed to renew skin overnight, the PURE Papaya Care Papaya GLOW Oil is a unique blend of regenerating Papaya Seed Oil and nourishing Jojoba Oil. This special formula actually works to both exfoliate and hydrate skin, all while you sleep! Best applied all over the face and neck, it gently encourages and stimulates skin regeneration to help brighten and smooth skin. It also makes a beautifully revitalising oil for hair, nails and cuticles.
PURE Papaya Care Papaya Ointment with Calendula
I also love the PURE Papaya Care Papaya Ointment with Calendula, which is a much thicker, balmier ointment that works wonders for nappy rash, dry skin, cracked lips, and as a barrier cream. Check out 10 unexpected uses for Papaya ointment here.
PURE Papaya Care Vapour Balm
The PURE Papaya Care Vapour Balm is another handy natural Paw Paw balm to have on hand, particularly during cold and flu season, as it's rich in Eucalyptus, Peppermint and Lemon Myrtle Oils to help gently clear congestion. Thanks to creamy Paw Paw, Coconut Oil and Shea Butter, this soft and smooth formula can be applied directly to the chest, with our natural body heat working to release the scent of the oils. Perfect for the whole family, including children over 12 months old.
PURE Papaya Care Papaya Lip Balm
You'll rarely find me without a natural lip balm on hand, and the PURE Papaya Care Papaya Lip Balm is a winner! This soothing balm gently exfoliates and repairs dry, chapped lips with natural Papaya, while nourishing Shea Butter, Macadamia Oil and Jojoba Oil hydrate and replenish.
PURE Papaya Care Renew Cream
Another Papaya must-have is the PURE Papaya Care Renew Cream, which actually harnesses the regenerative properties of the Papaya and combines them with Gotu Kola, clinically proven to support natural wound healing and scar reduction, as well as rich and creamy oils such as Macadamia, Sweet Almond, Jojoba and Rosehip. This thick and nourishing cream is designed to help reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks, and can be used 2-3 times daily ’ apply regularly for a minimum of 3 weeks for best results.
Sources: Pure Papaya Care, Australian Papaya.