Does cucumber really have any effect on the eyes? – GOOD SHAPE

We are all familiar with the image of a woman with the towel around her hair with cucumber in her eyes, representing all the relaxation and self-care you can think of wanting. Being something common in movies, series and even SPA flyers, the act of placing the fruit around the eyes can raise doubts, after all, does cucumber bring any benefit to the eye area?

DOES USING THE WHEELS AROUND YOUR EYES HELP?

Maria Eduarda Piresdermatologist, explains that both cut into slices around the eyes (or dermocosmetics with the same in the composition) and its consumption bring benefits to health and appearance.

“Cucumber intake is a great source of potassium, an element that provides elasticity to skin cells and can alleviate eye swelling, burns and dermatitis. Its bark has a high concentration of fibers and minerals, such as silica and magnesium, essential substances to maintain healthy connective tissue (muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage and bone) and promote muscle relaxation”.

That is, if it is not too bitter for your taste, try not to remove the skin when consuming the vegetable.

If you’ve ever tried to recreate such a moment at home, know that cucumbers are more than just a beauty accessory. With 96% of its composition being water, the vegetable promotes vasoconstriction (reduction of blood vessels) and, consequently, the reduction of edema and skin whitening in the region. These benefits also happen because cucumber is rich in antioxidants such as ascorbic acid (vitamin C), folic acid and flavonoids, substances that fight free radicals that are responsible for accelerating the aging process.

As if that were not enough, it is also rich in vitamin A (which acts as a moisturizer), vitamin E (which helps in the formation of collagen and elastin), and vitamin K (necessary for blood clotting), in addition to silicon (strengthens connective tissues in the body, as well as helping to maintain healthy skin).

Cucumber is also rich in potassium, which ensures muscle flexibility and skin elasticity. “When used cold, it promotes the contraction of the blood vessels of the eyelids, thus reducing the swelling of the eyelids. It has an effect on the area of ​​dark circles due to its refreshing properties, which constrict the blood vessels and is slightly moisturizing, improving the appearance of the skin in the region” says dermatologist Natasha Crepaldi.

HOW TO USE CUCUMBER

Recently, videos of people using frozen cucumber around their eyes went viral on TikTok and this is, in fact, one of the most effective ways to ensure the benefits of the practice. “It’s one of the most effective ways to get the plant’s instant beauty benefits. Also, for those looking for potent hydration for the region, I recommend applying an eye gel with hyaluronic acid and spreading the product with the help of cucumber” says Maria Eduarda.

The professional even teaches how to make a cucumber face mask: cut the vegetable into cubes and blend it in a blender, then apply it on the face and let it act for 5 to 10 minutes.

The indicated frequency of using natural/homemade cosmetics or dermocosmetics with the vegetable is 1 to 2 times a week. Regardless of your choice of application, talk to your dermatologist.

ARE THERE CONTRAINDICATIONS?

Topical application and ingestion of cucumber is considered safe for most people. But, of course, they may be contraindicated for those who have kidney problems, gastrointestinal problems, or dermatitisas excessive consumption of the plant source of potassium can overload the kidneys and cause gastric discomfort, in addition, its contact with sensitive skin can cause irritation.