Crazy for Cranberries
Last week leading up to Thanksgiving I noticed several different news reports and t.v. programs discussing all the health benefits of cranberries and how we should be eating and drinking them year-round. It got me thinking about how cranberries are not only great for our health and preventing diseases but also for the look of our skin. Beyond drinking a summer full of Sea Breezes and having that one sad spoonful of cranberry sauce on Turkey Day we can also use these tart little berries topically. They can be fantastic or rather crantastic when applied to our skin.
This super fruit is bursting with antioxidants and phytonutrients. You see cranberry oil in a lot of anti-aging products today because it helps fight against free radicals, one of the main cause’s of premature aging. The oil absorbs quickly so it works great at aiding in moisture retention, improving the skin’s elasticity and suppleness. It also smoothes the skin texture and brightens the complexion.
Now for the actual juice. Most of us ladies already know that cranberry juice has anti-yeast and anti-fungal properties. But did you also know that cranberry juice helps detoxify the skin and is particularly useful for oily, acne-prone skin and even psoriasis? In addition cranberries also help reduce skin inflammation, redness, and itchy, irritated skin. The acidic nature of cranberry juice also helps people with oily skin. The fruit enzymes present exfoliate dead skin and unclog pores keeping those pesky blackheads at bay. The antiseptic properties of this juice are very effective for treating acne.
So please don't wait for the pool boy to bring you your bright pink vodka drink this summer to be the next time you think of cranberries. Figure out a way to incorporate them year round and your skin will thank you. You may just then become crazy for cranberries.
