Uses, Properties And Contraindications Of Papaya Soap

Papaya is a fruit grown in tropical countries, specifically in the Western Hemisphere. While it is valued for its culinary uses and nutritional properties, it also has benefits as a skin care supplement. Do you know the properties of papaya soap?

In general, most industrialized soaps contain a series of chemical components in their formulation. In some skins, especially the most sensitive ones, they can cause adverse reactions such as irritation, allergies or changes in the natural pH.

Therefore, there are those who prefer the use of natural soaps, such as papaya. In this article, we tell you why it is good to use it, what its main uses are, and possible contraindications. Check out!

What are the possible skin benefits of papaya soap?

The active enzyme in this fruit, called papain, is used to prepare soaps for a variety of purposes. According to a publication in the  European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences , this substance is used in dermatology to soften the marks left by scars.

Likewise, it is valued for its ability to improve skin health, as it favors the elimination of dead cells and impurities. On the other hand, papaya contains vitamin C, which reduces the negative effects of free radicals and helps to stimulate collagen production.

It also provides vitamin A, an essential nutrient to stimulate cell regeneration and reduce the presence of spots and irregularities. Due to this composition, papaya soap is a good option for skin care. However, let’s look at other benefits.

Papaya soap as an exfoliant

One of the main features of papaya soap is its exfoliating effect. This means that it has the ability to remove dead cells that accumulate on the skin’s surface.

Although the skin renews itself naturally, it is often necessary to help this process with the application of exfoliating products. In this way, the body and face will have a more luminous and uniform appearance.

In this case, exfoliation occurs due to the content of papain, a substance that catalyzes the degradation of proteins when combined with water.

Acne

This is not a first-line treatment for acne. However, papaya soap promotes skin cleansing to help combat this condition. On the other hand, due to the contribution of papain, it helps to remove damaged keratin and prevent sequelae such as scarring.

According to what the book Healing Power of Papaya , by Bárbara Simonsohn exposed, the exfoliating properties of papaya soap make it the ideal ally to treat acne and prevent pore clogging due to excess dead cells.

pain relief

Cleansing the skin with papaya soap is helpful to relieve pain, itchiness and redness. While it is not a permanent cure for allergies, stings, or wounds, it can help reduce discomfort while using other treatments.

Reduces skin blemishes

So far, there are no scientific studies to support the theory that papaya soap reduces stains. However, Simonsohn, author of Healing Power of Papaya , indicates that regular application of this product can cause a slight lightening of the skin over time.

At this point, it is necessary to mention that papain does not chemically bleach, as happens with the bleaching creams that are marketed. However, by exfoliating the outer layers that may be tanned or sun-damaged, the skin will look lighter.

Natural stain remover

The papain enzyme, present in papaya, catalyzes the breakdown of proteins by hydrolysis (the addition of a water molecule). This work is very useful for removing stains from fabrics.

According to the book Papaya: The Medicine Tree , by Harald W. Tietze, soap made with this plant is effective in smoothing and removing stains with high protein content, such as blood.

Contraindications and side effects of papaya soap

The fact that a product is natural does not mean that it cannot have counterproductive effects. All bodies are different, so some people may experience allergic reactions or unwanted effects when using papaya soap.

Overall, this is a safe product for most people. Despite this, its use is not recommended if there is a history of allergy to latex or papaya. To avoid discomfort, it is recommended to consider the following:

• Before using it for the first time, test the soap on a small area of ​​skin to make sure it does not cause allergies, irritation, swelling, etc.
• Avoid contact of the product with eyes.
• Use for external use only.
• If you notice any skin reaction, discontinue use, rinse the area thoroughly and consult a doctor or dermatologist.
• Store it at a temperature that does not exceed 30 degrees Fahrenheit.

What should we take into account about papaya soap?

Papaya is a fruit that contains beneficial nutrients for the skin. Including this fruit in your beauty routine through soap can be useful for exfoliating, reducing the presence of acne and preventing blemishes. Anyway, one must keep in mind that this is not a miracle product.

Its application does not cause instant effects on the skin. Furthermore, it does not replace the products recommended by the dermatologist. Therefore, in case of acne, irritation or sensitivity, it is best to consult a professional.