Watermelon is the go-to fruit for cooling down on a hot day. But did you know this juicy summer treat also has hidden beauty benefits? 

Beyond being a refreshing treat, it has a high water concentration, vitamins, and antioxidants that can support healthier hair and stronger nails. 

While watermelon is not a miracle cure, these nutrients help provide the essential building blocks your body needs for optimal hair and nail growth.

This article shares watermelon’s nutritional composition, health benefits, expert insights, and creative ways to incorporate it into your diet.

(All expert quotes sourced from pitch requests via Qwoted)

History of watermelons

Watermelons boast a history dating back more than 5,000 years in Northeast Africa. Though usually considered a fruit, they are technically vegetable members of the Cucurbitaceae family. Watermelon comes in more than 1,200 varieties in different shapes, sizes, colours, and flavours. They are more than 90% water and a good source of vitamins A and C. They also contain strong antioxidants, including lycopene. Watermelon seeds can be used as an edible and nutrient-packed snack; the rind can also be pickled.

Nutritional composition of watermelon

People mostly use watermelon as a summer treat and are often unaware of the nutrients it has and their health benefits. 

According to the USDA, these are some of the nutrients in watermelon that may promote your hair and nail growth:

Health benefits of watermelon for hair and nails

Here’s how the nutrients found in watermelon can contribute to your hair and nail health:

Vitamin A

Vitamin A helps your body make sebum, an oily substance that moisturises your scalp and hair and promotes hair and nail growth.⁶

If you have a Vitamin A deficiency, your hair might become dry and brittle, and your scalp may also be flaky.

While talking to Klarity Health, Dr. Maria Knobel, a board-certified GP, mentioned that Vitamin A, along with Vitamin B6, supports your hair and nail growth.

She further added that Vitamin B6 is important for making amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. Protein helps hair and nails grow and stay strong, making this vitamin an important source for healthy hair and nails.

Vitamin C

Watermelon has vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps your body make collagen. It is a protein that gives your skin, hair, and nails their structure and strength.²

Dr. Knobel pointed out that as we age, collagen production decreases, leading to weaker hair and nails. But eating foods like watermelon that are high in vitamin C can boost collagen production. This will make your hair and nails stronger and less likely to break.

In addition, research has shown that Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron, which is important for healthy hair growth.⁷

Lycopene

Research suggests that lycopene can boost your blood flow, which is important for delivering important nutrients to your hair follicles. This improved circulation can promote healthier hair growth.⁸

Hydration

When asked about the role of hydration in hair and nail growth, Dr. Maria added that hair and nails are made of keratin, a protein that needs water to stay strong and flexible. 

She emphasises that water helps keep keratin solid and flexible, preventing dryness and breakage. Watermelon’s high water content makes it an excellent choice for staying hydrated. This can help your scalp and nails get the moisture they need to be healthy, look better, be stronger, and be less likely to break.

Tips for adding watermelon to your diet

Apart from using watermelon as a snack, you can make it a part of your diet with these delicious recipes:

• Grill watermelon slices for a caramelised sweetness, making them perfect as a dessert or with other fruits
• Turn a watermelon into refreshing popsicles by freezing it in ice cube trays with popsicle sticks
• Create a fresh summer salsa by adding watermelon slices with cucumbers, onions, corn, and jalapenos
• Add watermelon slices to a sandwich and pair it with cheddar cheese for a unique flavour combination
• Toss watermelon cubes with red pepper, olive oil, and feta cheese to make a flavorful quinoa salad.
• Blend watermelon with a handful of spinach, Greek yoghurt, and other fruits for a smoothie
• Freezing watermelon cubes and blending them to create a sorbet. Add a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy flavour, or top it with fresh mint leaves
• Blend watermelon with tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, olive oil, and a splash of vinegar to create a cold soup or gazpacho

FAQ’s

How often should someone add watermelon to their diet to see noticeable effects on their hair and nails?

Catherine Gervacio, a Registered Dietitian, mentions that the effects can vary among people as different factors are considered, including the amount of intake, health, and metabolism. You can add watermelon to your diet daily as long as you have no health conditions, food sensitivities, or allergies.

Lastly, she emphasised that no single food can target hair. Watermelon has to be eaten with other nutrient-rich foods to supply the body with needed nutrients.

How often should someone add watermelon to their diet to see noticeable effects on their nails?

Catherine Gervacio, a Registered Dietitian, further said that hair and nail growth is gradual, so consistent consumption over several weeks to a few months is important to notice significant improvements. But make sure to pair watermelon with other nutrient-rich foods.

Again, it is important to emphasise that no single food can target nail health. Watermelon has to be.

Is it possible to use watermelon as a hair mask?

Yes, to use watermelon as a hair mask, here’s what you need to do: 

• Blend watermelon cubes with coconut oil and honey
• Apply the mixture to your hair, and leave it on for 20-30 minutes
• Rinse with shampoo for shiny, smooth hair

Can watermelon make your hair thick?

Watermelon is an excellent source of citrulline.⁹ It helps increase the body’s arginine levels, which promotes blood flow, especially to the scalp. This can contribute to faster hair growth.¹⁰

Is watermelon good for skin health, too?

Watermelon is rich in vitamins A and C, which promote skin hydration and help in collagen production. These vitamins improve skin elasticity and reduce signs of ageing. The lycopene in watermelon can also protect the skin from sun damage and improve overall skin texture.

Can eating too much watermelon have any adverse effects?

While watermelon is generally safe to eat, consuming it in excess may lead to digestive issues due to its high water content and fibre, which can cause bloating or diarrhoea in some individuals. Additionally, because watermelon has a moderate glycemic index, those managing blood sugar levels should enjoy it in moderation.

Can you eat watermelon seeds?

Yes, watermelon seeds are edible and offer a range of benefits. They are rich in magnesium, protein, healthy fats, and other micronutrients that can support overall health, including skin, hair, and nails. You can roast them for a crunchy snack or blend them into smoothies for added nutrition.

Summary

Watermelon, with its rich nutritional composition, can be a valuable addition to your diet for promoting hair and nail health. Nutrients like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and lycopene can help support hydration, collagen production, and overall hair and nail strength. 

Adding watermelon to your meals can provide a natural boost, but it’s important to remember that no single food can deliver all the benefits you need. A balanced diet rich in a variety of nutrients is the only way to get the best results for your hair, nails, and overall health. 

By combining watermelon with other nutrient-dense foods, you can make sure that your body receives the essential building blocks for your overall health.