(P18-17-26) The Effects of Watermelon Fruit Intake and Topical Application on Skin Redness, Roughness, and Wrinkles

Objectives: The skin, the largest organ of the human body, functions as a barrier between the body and the environment and is continuously exposed to topical agents that may influence its structural and functional properties. Watermelon is rich in water, antioxidants, and bioactive constituents such as L-citrulline, carotenoids and lycopene, which have been associated with reduced erythema, stabilization of cellular DNA, enhanced collagen production, and improved skin texture. This study evaluated the effects of topical application and dietary intake of watermelon on skin redness (erythema), roughness, and wrinkles on the dorsal hands, cheeks, forehead, and inner arms.

Methods: A randomized clinical crossover trial was conducted in 32 participants (16 females and 16 males; mean age 25.2 ± 6.0 years; mean BMI 29.0 ± 3.7 kg/m²). For topical application, participants received a one-minute application of either the control (water) or fresh watermelon to the cheeks and hands. For the dietary intervention, participants consumed either fresh 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 assessed using the Antera 3D Imaging system.

Results: Topical application of watermelon reduced cheek roughness compared with water control (P=0.048). Four weeks of watermelon consumption decreased the wrinkles on the cheeks (P=0.042) and inner arm (P=0.018) and reduced inner arm roughness compared with the cookie control (P=0.034). No significant differences were observed in skin redness following either topical application or dietary intervention in all tested regions.

Conclusions: Both topical application and dietary consumption of watermelon demonstrated potential benefits in improving skin roughness and wrinkle appearance, suggesting a potential role for watermelon in supporting skin health. Larger, well-powered studies are warranted to confirm these effects, elucidate underlying mechanisms, and improve generalizability.

Funding Sources: This study was funded by the U.S. National Watermelon Promotion Board.