Beauty ingredient of the week: papaya

  International spa consultant and wellbeing expert Linda Hall talks us through the benefits of the super-fruit papaya. "Papaya has lots of amazing benefits whether it's eaten or applied externally to the skin. For everyday health, eating papaya works wonders in boosting and strengthening the immune system, assisting the digestive system and alleviating inflammation. It is bursting with antioxidants, minerals and vitamins A,C and E. Papaya has wonderful effects on the skin and hair due to its natural conditioning, moisturising and healing properties. It helps to reduce brown spots and smooths skin, assisting with wound healing, pimples, wrinkles, psoriasis and eczema. It is a great exfoliator leaving the skin looking healthier." Papaya Products DERMALOGICA DAILY MICROFOLIANT (£40.30) - Daily Microfoliant is Dermalogica's No1-selling product worldwide. - The unique, rice-based powder micro-exfoliates dulling debris from the skin, instantly leaving it smoother and brighter. - The powder formula activates immediately upon contact with water, releasing rice actives, papain (papaya enzymes) and salicylic acid to smooth the skin and accelerate cell renewal. - It is suitable for daily use, since the microfoliant only impacts superficial layers of skin and therefore avoids the risk of over-exfoliation. 01372 363600 www.dermalogica.co.uk                                                                                                                      CRYSTAL CLEAR DEFENCE MASK (£30)     - The perfect  skin-saver for problematic skin that is oily, congested and spot-prone. - The peel-off formula prevents the over-production of sebum to reduce the bacteria that causes spots. - Papaya fruit extract and lemon have an enzymatic effect on the skin to slough off dead skin cells, and also have an strong anti-inflammatory effect. - For clearer, brighter skin, the mask should be used twice a week and left on for 15 minutes before peeling off. 08705 934 934 www.crystalclear.co.uk       ELEMIS PAPAYA ENZYME PEEL (£29.50) - A rinse-off exfoliating cream suitable for all skin types, including sensitive or mature skin. -Contains natural fruit enzymes of exfoliating papaya and calming pineapple to smooth and clarify the complexion. - Features nourishing milk protein, anti-oxidant rich vitamin E and marine algae to moisturise, repair and protect the skins. - Use after cleansing and toning - leave on the skin for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water. www.elemis.com