Cucumber has a residency in sitcoms: it seems to make an appearance often, usually in thin slices pressed against the tired eyes of a character in need of an unwind. But what about cucumbers make them useful for spa days?
Cucumber's Superpowers
Research suggests that putting cucumbers on your eyes (slice them up first, please) has a number of observable effects. It cools the skin, from both the temperature of the chilled cucumber and the chemicals present. It hydrates the eyes and surrounding tissue with its high water content, reduces dark circlues due to high levels of vitamin K, and reduces inflammation because its packed with anti-inflammatories called lignans. It can also like an aloe, soothing suburn.
There’s also been reported skin brightening effects. Chemicals in cucumber can inhibit tyrosinase, an enzyme that is involved in the production of melanin. This effect can also be attributed to the compound silica, present in cucumbers, which offers benefits for connective tissue and lightens the skin around the eyes.
Safe to Enjoy
To boot, there’s no catch. All parts of the cucumber, from the seed extract to the juice, has almost no toxological concern. This means it is completely safe to eat (we knew that) and use on the skin. To use it on the skin like they do in the movies, it’s important to get it right. Number one, using cucumbers in your wellness routine should be relaxing and enjoying. Before starting, find a comfortable space to lie down and make sure to refrigerate or chill your cucumber beforehand.
How to...
Then, follow these steps:
- Wash your face with cool water
- Remove both ends of the cucumber, througohuly wash the entire vegetable, and cut two slice about half a centimeter in thickness. It is sometimes suggested to remove the skin so that you minimize the chance of coming into contact with any pesticides. The eyes are sensitive, but if you washed the cucumber thoroughly you should be ok.
- Lie down in a comfortable position, close your eyes, and place a slice over each.
- If the cucumber slices warm up, flip them over. Like a pillow, the other side should be cool.