As we get older, it’s only natural to look for gentle, effective ways to care for our skin. While there’s no way to turn back the clock, some natural ingredients can help us feel more confident in our skin—literally. One ingredient that keeps coming up in beauty circles and family traditions alike? Avocado.
People are buzzing about a simple avocado trick that may help your skin appear smoother, more hydrated, and refreshed—especially after the age of 70. But is it just hype, or is there something real behind it? I looked into the research, tried it for myself, and here’s what you should know.
Whether you’re in your 40s or 80s, this article walks you through how this green fruit can support healthy skin and how to use it safely at home.
Why Avocado Deserves a Place in Your Skincare Routine
Avocados aren’t just good for your heart—they’re also packed with nutrients that your skin loves. According to Harvard Health, avocados are rich in:
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Healthy fats (especially oleic acid)
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Vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects skin from oxidative stress
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Vitamin C, which supports collagen production
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Carotenoids, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which may help protect skin from environmental damage
Together, these nutrients help the skin retain moisture, support elasticity, and maintain a healthy, natural glow. That’s why many natural beauty lovers (and even dermatologists) praise avocado as a gentle, nourishing ingredient for aging skin.
The Simple Avocado Trick: What Is It?
The trick that’s been making the rounds is refreshingly simple: apply mashed avocado directly to your face as a natural mask.
That’s it—no added chemicals, no complicated instructions. This mask is typically used 2–3 times per week to help hydrate the skin, smooth out rough areas, and leave a soft, refreshed finish.
How to Make It:
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Mash ¼ of a ripe avocado until smooth
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Apply evenly to clean, dry skin (especially on cheeks, forehead, and jawline)
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Leave it on for 10–15 minutes
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Rinse gently with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry
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Finish with a light moisturizer (or a dab of avocado oil)
Optional Add-ins for Extra Benefits:
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A teaspoon of honey for added hydration
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A few drops of olive oil for very dry skin
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A sprinkle of oats to help calm irritation
This mask is especially helpful in dry weather or after sun exposure. Plus, it’s safe for most skin types, even sensitive or mature skin—though always do a patch test first.
What Happens to Your Skin When You Use Avocado Regularly?
If you stick with it for a week or more, you may start to notice gentle changes. While this isn’t a miracle fix, the benefits of avocado for skin—especially mature skin—are well supported by both science and tradition.
1. Smoother Texture
The healthy fats in avocado help support the skin’s barrier, keeping it soft and resilient. If your skin feels rough or papery, this extra hydration can make a big difference in texture.
2. Plumper, Hydrated Appearance
As we age, skin naturally loses moisture. Avocado’s rich oils may help trap hydration, leaving your skin looking fuller and more refreshed—especially around fine lines and dry patches.
3. More Radiant Glow
Dry or depleted skin often looks dull. The nutrients in avocado may support a healthy glow, especially when used consistently alongside sun protection and hydration.
4. Gentle Support for Aging Skin
Antioxidants like vitamin E and carotenoids help reduce oxidative stress, which contributes to the look of aging. Avocado won’t erase wrinkles, but it may help your skin age more gracefully.
What the Science Says About Avocado and Skin Health
Although more studies are needed on topical use, the nutrients in avocado are backed by solid evidence when it comes to supporting healthy skin.
According to a 2020 study published in Nutrients, avocado’s monounsaturated fats and antioxidants may help protect skin from environmental damage and improve moisture retention. Another report from The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology suggests that natural oils like avocado oil can improve skin elasticity and smoothness when used regularly.
Even consuming avocados may have benefits. A small 2022 clinical trial found that women who ate one avocado a day for eight weeks showed improved skin elasticity and firmness compared to those who didn’t.
That said, more research is needed on how applying avocado directly to the skin compares with consuming it—but early results are promising.
Who Can Benefit Most from the Avocado Mask?
This gentle mask may be especially helpful for:
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Adults over 50 with naturally drier skin
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People living in dry or windy climates
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Those with occasional flakiness or tightness
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Anyone looking for a simple, natural way to pamper their skin
Even if you have oily or combination skin, avocado can be used sparingly—perhaps just on dry areas or during winter months. If you’re prone to breakouts, use a thin layer and rinse thoroughly.
Tips for Best Results
To get the most out of your avocado routine, follow these tips:
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Use ripe, fresh avocado (avoid overripe or brown parts)
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Always wash your face before applying the mask
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Avoid getting the mask too close to your eyes
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Use 2–3 times a week for noticeable results
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Keep extra avocado in the fridge for quick re-use (cover tightly and use within 2 days)
If you’re short on time, even a dab of avocado oil can be massaged into dry spots like the under-eye area, cheeks, or neck.
A Natural Ritual That Works With Your Skin, Not Against It
The beauty of this avocado trick is in its simplicity. It’s not about reversing time—it’s about embracing your skin’s natural beauty, while giving it the moisture and nutrients it craves. For many, the ritual itself is part of the magic: slowing down, treating your skin kindly, and showing yourself a little care.
Plus, it’s inexpensive, easy, and free from the harsh ingredients found in some over-the-counter creams.
Thinking of trying this? Invite a friend and turn it into a weekly self-care moment.
Want more gentle beauty tips like this? Explore more natural ideas on our site.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Consult your doctor or dermatologist before trying new skin products or treatments, especially if you have allergies or chronic skin conditions.