strawberries

Strawberries are a delicious, nutritious fruit that supports health both inside and out. Strawberries contain vitamins, minerals, complex carbohydrates, carotene, antioxidants and folic acid, contributing to good overall health and, in terms of appearance, a beautiful, youthful look. Strawberries are rich in alpha-hydroxy acid, which visibly reduces wrinkles and pigmentation marks, such as those left by acne, and effectively remove dead skin cells to help renew the skin. These fruits come from the plant Fragaria vesca, a source of natural extracts used in cosmetics, often organically produced or supplied as freeze-dried powders stabilised with maltodextrin for better solubility and preservation of active ingredients. They contain vitamins A, C and E, potassium, boron, zinc and salicylic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Thanks to their high water and soluble substance content, they bind impurities and heavy metals, acting as a natural detoxifying ingredient for the skin.

Their mechanism of action includes the exfoliating effects of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), which remove dead skin cells, improve hydration and stimulate collagen production, helping to restore the skin barrier. The salicylic acid in strawberries penetrates pores, dissolves sebum and fights bacteria, soothing inflammation. Antioxidants such as vitamin C neutralise free radicals, protect against ageing and support regeneration. Zinc contributes to healing and acne reduction. Typical concentrations in cosmetics are 1-5 % for gentle exfoliants or masks, while AHAs at concentrations of 20-70 % combined with BHAs have keratolytic and anti-seborrhoeic effects.

I recommend strawberries for oily, acne-prone and problem skin prone to spots and clogged pores, where their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation. They are also suitable for dry, dehydrated and sensitive skin thanks to their hydrating and soothing effects. For mature skin, they help reduce wrinkles and pigmentation marks and add radiance. At low concentrations, they are suitable for all skin types, particularly in summer masks or exfoliants.

A study in Pediatrie pro praxi (2014) states that fruit acids, including AHAs at concentrations of 20–70 %, have keratolytic, antibacterial and sebum-regulating effects, stimulate new collagen formation in the epidermis and reduce inflammation in the dermis. Other sources confirm that salicylic acid in strawberries used in exfoliating formulations clears spots and softens the skin. These effects were observed with home applications using 5 mashed strawberries mixed with sugar as an exfoliant.