Ingredient 101

JUICY FRUIT

GET THAT GLOW

Add watermelon to your summer routine and reap the skin-soothing benefits

By Lora Grady

WATERMELON IS A SUMMERTIME

ESSENTIAL — no beach picnic is complete without it (just ask Harry Styles!) The refreshing fruit has also been used in Asian cultures for centuries to help tackle inflammation and redness. And over the last few years, watermelon has become one of the hottest ingredients in skincare worldwide. Since Glow Recipe launched its bestselling Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask back in 2017, watermelon has appeared in ingredient lists from brands including Milk, Sephora, Drunk Elephant and more. The fruit (a cousin of the cucumber and squash) is made up of 92 percent water, so it’s hardly surprising that the beauty industry is harnessing its hydrating powers. Within the beauty aisles, “Watermelon is quite a new ingredient for skincare,” says Dr. Benjamin Barankin, dermatologist and medical director of the Toronto Dermatology Centre. Its nutritional benefits— including vitamins A, B6 and C— may also benefit our complexions. Another element found in the fruit is citrulline, an amino acid that is believed to exfoliate and improve circulation. “Topically, watermelon seems to reduce inflammation and boost collagen,” says Dr. Barankin. “Vitamins A, C and E have antioxidant properties that appear to help with complexion vibrance and firmness.” Watermelon also contains lycopene, an antioxidant that has antiinflammatory, astringent efects (it’s also what gives watermelon its vibrant pink colour), says Dimitra Davidson, president and COO of Indeed Labs. Thanks to these allstar components, watermelon helps to reduce the appearance of pores, fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. “The high water content also makes watermelon great for hydration,” says Davidson. Watermelon can be used at any step during your skincare routine and can benefit varying skin types. The anti-inflammatory properties make it ideal for sensitive skin, she says, while those with acne-prone skin can benefit from the astringent properties. Remember that the higher the watermelon ingredient on the list of ingredients, the higher its proportion in the product itself; if the active ingredient is listed near the end, then its just marketing.

Formulated with vitamin B3, watermelon and hyaluronic acid, this multi-use serum reduces the look of hyperpigmentation. Use it before or after makeup for an instant glow.

GLOW RECIPE Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops, $45, at Sephora.

Take off the day with this oil-based balm, formulated with watermelon and hemp seed oils to deeply cleanse and condition skin.

INDEED LABS Watermelon Melting Balm, $23, at IndeedLabs.com.

The watermelon extract and Swiss garden cress sprout extract in this lightweight solid serum help to reduce dark spots while smoothing skin.

MILK MAKEUP Watermelon Brightening Serum, $48, at Sephora.

THE LOOK GOOD FEEL BETTER GUIDE TO SELF-CARE

ONE of the most challenging aspects of a cancer diagnosis is the loss of identity that comes with it. For a woman, she is no longer the daughter, sister, friend - she is the cancer patient. It can rob her of her sense of self.

For almost 30 years, Look Good Feel Better has been helping women and teen girls facing the difficult cancer journey feel more like themselves again.

Body image is a critical psychosocial issue for patients with cancer because they often undergo significant changes to their appearance. Hair loss, skin changes, and scarring can all have negative implications on short-term and longterm quality of life.

At the heart of the Look Good Feel Better program are complimentary workshops which address the appearance-related impact of cancer and its treatment while offering women a welcoming sense of community, where they can connect with other women facing similar challenges.

Self-care is important at all times, and especially during times of increased anxiety and stress. Connecting with friends through programs like Look Good Feel Better is a great way to unwind, share stories, insights and even laughter during a difficult journey.

Read on for Look Good Feel Better ’ s must-know sun, makeup hygiene and skincare tips!

SKINCARE TIPS

Your skin can go through many changes during treatment so you may need to change your regular routine.

■ Keep your skincare routine as simple as possible – use a gentle cleanser, a moisturizing cream, and protect with sunscreen.

■ Look for skincare products that are hypoallergenic & fragrance-free.

MAKEUP HYGIENE TIPS

■ During treatment your immune system is not as strong, so makeup hygiene essential. Keep bacteria out of your products by using disposable applicators such as cotton balls, sponges, cosmetic pads or mini spatulas.

SUN PROTECTION TIPS

Sunscreen is a must for every day–whatever the weather. Sunscreen is even more important when you are in treatment, as some drugs make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.

■ Choose a sunscreen that delivers both UVA and UVB broad-spectrum protection in SPF 30 or higher.

■ For sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens may cause less irritation.

■ Apply sunscreen daily and liberally to all exposed skin, including lips, ears, scalp, sides and back of the neck and the chest.

■ Apply at least 20 minutes before going outside.

If you moisturize frst, wait 5 minutes or until the moisturizer is absorbed before applying sunscreen.

Feel more like yourself again.

Join the complimentary LOOK GOOD FEEL BETTER

workshops for women and teens facing cancer.

Visit LGFB.CA for more resources and to register