Kiwi is the vitamin-C rich way to brighten and smooth skin all at once

Growing up, my absolute favorite cereal was Fruity Pebbles. My adult version of that? An affinity for fruity skin-care products.

Luckily for my fellow fruit lovers, it’s prime time for that feeling, because beauty shelves are increasingly filling up with fruit-spiked serums and moisturizers and face masks (oh my), a veritable fruit basket for your face. The latest all-star smoothie ingredient that’s become coveted for your skin? Kiwi.

People tend to either love or hate the fuzzy fruit (I love the stuff), but it actually makes for a nourishing booster to your skin-care routine (on top of all the kiwi health benefits this fruit has to offer). “Kiwi is rich in several important nutrients, including vitamins C, E, and K, and potassium and folate,” says Brianne West, founder and formulator of Ethique Beauty. “These vitamins help soften the skin. Kiwi’s also a good chemical exfoliant since it’s high in enzymes, and it works for oily and congested skin types.”

On a scientific level, an oil extract should be a good balance of essential fatty acids of the Omega-6 type (linoleic acid) and Omega-3 (alpha-linolenic acid), says Marie Veronique, chemist and founder of her eponymous skin-care brand. Kiwi comes in because it’s an all-star Omega 3. “Kiwi seed oil’s 60 percent content of alpha-linolenic acid makes it the standout of Omega-3 oils as it doesn’t contain competing amounts of Omega-6s as do flax or hemp seed oils,” she explains. “This high ALA profile makes kiwi seed oil ideal for sensitive skin and skin prone to redness flare-ups due to underlying inflammatory conditions such as rosacea or acne.” She also points out that its high concentrations of vitamins A, C, and E are good for plumping fine lines.

Sounds appetizing to me (and my skin). Ready to slather some kiwi on your face? Keep scrolling for the fruity goods.

Shop kiwi-spiked skin care

Codex Beauty Facial Oil $90

Marie Veronique Protective Day Oil $65

Drunk Elephant Slaai Makeup-Melting Butter Cleanser $34

Saturday Skin Daily Dew Hydrating Essence Mist $34

Arcona Kiwi Cream Bar $42

Darphin HydraSkin Light All-Day Skin-Hydrating Cream Gel $66

Mychelle Quick Clean Micellar Water $12

True Botanicals Renew Pure Radiance Oil $110

Mario Badescu Kiwi Face Scrub $15

For more fruit gems in your beauty routine, try strawberry skin-care products, or pineapple skin care for brightening.