Like blueberries, cherries are a good source of anthocyanins (pigments that are part of the flavonoid family with antioxidant properties) as well as vitamins A, B, C and E which help to rejuvenate the skin and protect it against harmful UV damage, the latter a result of the melatonin content they provide. Melatonin is a hormone known for lending a helping hand in safeguarding your cells from sun damage. Sun damage is directly linked to photoaging, a process triggered by UV light exposure that results in premature wrinkles. In short, the longer unprotected skin is exposed to UV radiation, the bigger the impact, both visibly and on a cellular level. It causes lasting damage that can be a contributing factor to premature aging, which is something none of us want to be victims of.
Acerola cherries are said to be one of the best sources of vitamin C out of all common fruits. This is great news for your skin as vitamin C is praised for being able to boost skin elasticity, which is fundamental in promoting younger-looking skin with fewer lines and wrinkles. Compared to the effects of witch hazel, this variation of cherry has astringent effects on the skin, which have been said to prove useful when seeking to tone the skin and tackle issues like blemishes when used in certain skincare products. Another fact about acerola cherries is that they are also antifungal, which is especially advantageous when it comes to preventing skin infections. One particular study endorsed the health benefits of tart cherries, citing that they boast the richest volume of anti-inflammatory properties of all food.
Most varieties of cherry can be applied topically in skincare products, taken orally via capsules/tablets, as a tincture, or in its powdered form. The latter is a popular choice as it’s versatile and, as such, can easily be added to a variety of beverages like juices and smoothies. As always, make sure to read the label for the correct dosage of any product you are taking and, if in doubt, consult a medical practitioner. Acerola cherries (since they are rich in vitamin C) can result in side effects when taken in excess. These can include digestive cramps, nausea, dizziness and diarrhea, to name a few.
If you’d like to find out more about some of the best anti-aging fruit and veg, check out our Diet page for more information.