(LB03-08-25) Effects of Fresh Watermelon Consumption and Topical Application on Skin Hydration, Collagen, and Oil

Objectives: Skin plays a crucial role in appearance and serves as a physical barrier for the immune system. Maintaining healthy and hydrated skin supports this barrier, slows the aging process, and enhances well-being and self-image. Watermelon offers numerous nutrients beneficial for the skin. It is widely recognized for its high water content, making it a valuable source of skin hydration, and its rich Vitamin C content facilitates collagen synthesis. However, research on the effects of fresh watermelon consumption on skin health is limited. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the impact of both acute and long-term watermelon consumption on skin hydration, collagen levels, and oil content.

Methods: This crossover clinical trial included 32 participants (16 men,16 women) aged 18-50, with a BMI of 25–40 kg/m². Participants received a one-minute topical application of either control (water) or fresh watermelon on both cheeks and hands. Additionally, participants consumed either watermelon (330 g) or an isocaloric control (low-fat cookies) for 4 weeks, followed by a 4-week washout period between interventions. Skin parameters were measured using a cutometer dual MPA.

Results: Topical application of watermelon significantly increased skin moisture in the cheeks and hands (P < 0.001) in both males and females. Topical application of water significantly reduced oil levels in the cheeks (P=0.040), while watermelon treatment showed no significant effect. In females, four weeks of watermelon consumption resulted in a significant increase in skin moisture in the cheeks (P=0.034) and hands (P=0.025), with a trend toward an increase in the forehead (P=0.089). Additionally, an interaction effect on oil content in the hands was observed, showing a decrease with cookie consumption but an increase with watermelon intake (P=0.017) in females. Watermelon consumption also significantly elevated collagen content in the hands (P=0.026), with a trend towards increase in the cheeks (P=0.085) among females.

Conclusions: Watermelon application or intake may improve skin health through by enhancing hydration and collagen levels, while maintaining oil content in females. Future research on a larger scale is needed to explore these findings and underlying mechanisms, particularly in females with dry, aging skin.

Funding Sources: National Watermelon Promotion Board (DTD 11-03-23)