Pomegranate: Wonder Skincare Additive

There's been a huge surge in new products containing pomegranate lately, all touting its wonderful affects on the skin and hair. And while all these new formulas smell lovely thanks to that sweet hard-to-describe citrusy/berry scent, you might wonder if they're all they're cracked up to be. After all, we've seen other "miracle" ingredients come and go without fulfilling their promise of skin perfection, so it's easy to be skeptical. So is this bright fruit really the new "must have" or is it just hype?

Well, studies show that there actually may be something to all the pom love. The fruit first started getting attention thanks to its high levels of antioxidants, which rival that of green tea, another skin care favorite. But findings that it also contains phytoestrogen and punicic and linolenic acids, all of which prevent the breakdown of collagen fibers, have upped its profile even more. Plus, a 2006 study showed that along with stimulating collagen, pomegranate seed oil speeds skin cell turnover and slightly thickens and strengthens the skin. The implication: Pomegranate can improve wound healing (so cuts and scrapes heal faster) and make for overall younger looking skin. And there's more still—a recent study has shown that when applied topically the fruit actually reduces your risk of skin cancer.

So between all the sun-damage-busting, wrinkle-releasing, and new-skin-making goodness, how can you not jump on board? Check out some of the newest and most notable pom-infused products below that will help you get all the benefits on any budget. And since they all have varying degrees of an organic slant, you won't be loading up on a bunch of unnecessary chemicals.

Pure & Natural Grapefruit & Pomegranate Body Wash ($3.99)
A citrusy, foamy way to start off your day while you rejuvenate your skin from head to toe. And as a bonus, it's 98 percent natural.

Afterglow Mineral Cosmetics Mineral Eye Shadow ($16)
Loose powder shadow that's spiked with pomegranate seed extract, so it doubles as an eye treatment to smooth fine lines. It comes in more than 20 shimmery colors, so there's a lot to choose from.

Tarte Glam Gams Bronzing Leg Stick ($30)
A paraben-free wash-off body bronzer that's infused with pomegrante, so it protects your skin from the rays while imparting a real-looking, wash-off faux tan. Genius.

Juice Beauty Oil-Free Moisturizer ($28)
This certified organic hydrator is spiked with both pomegranate and white grape for extra anti-oxidant action.

Murad Energizing Pomegranate Lip Protector SPF 15 ($16.50)
A light, non-sticky balm that makes lips feel softer while chasing away wrinkle-causing free radicals.

John Masters Organics Pomegranate Facial Nourishing Oil ($30)
The company claims the pom's omega acids improves skin elasticity and reduces wrinkles to head off signs of ageing. Just spritz on alone or under a moisturizer if you need a little extra hydration.