The “fruit of the angels”, as Columbus called it — a tropical fruit with an enzyme that tenderises meat and seeds that give a precious oil.

What is papaya?

Papaya (Carica papaya) is the fruit of a fast-growing tropical plant with a soft trunk that looks like a tree but is botanically a herb. Skin care uses two of its products: fruit extract, which contains the enzyme papain, and the oil from its black seeds. Papaya seed oil is light, high in oleic acid, and contains tocopherols and carotenoids.

What are the benefits of papaya?

Papaya is one of the best-loved tropical ingredients for soft, smooth skin. Applied topically:

• The seed oil softens and nourishes without feeling greasy
• It offers carotenoids and vitamin E with antioxidant activity
• Papain helps with gentle enzymatic exfoliation of the surface
• It helps the skin look smoother and brighter
• It suits dry and mature skin

The enzyme fruit

In tropical countries meat is traditionally wrapped in papaya leaves to tenderise it: papain breaks down proteins. The same property made it valuable in skin care, where it is used in gentle enzyme masks that “unstick” dead cells without scrubbing. The black seeds, usually thrown away, taste peppery — and they give the oil.

Where does it come from?

Papaya originates in Central America and southern Mexico. Today it is grown throughout the tropics, with India, Brazil, Indonesia, Nigeria and Mexico the main producers.