If you pay any attention to beauty bloggers and fashion magazines, you’ll probably notice that when it comes to skincare, they mostly emphasize products and procedures that improve acne or signs of aging from the outside. While we’d certainly agree that there are some wonderfully effective skin treatments available today, they can only do so much if the foods you eat aren’t supporting your skin health. To get the most out of your beauty products and cosmetic procedures, make sure your diet includes at least some of these 15 foods for beautiful and clear skin.
#1. Tomatoes protect your skin from the sun
Tomatoes contain high levels of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps improve skin’s SPF and offers additional protection from sun damage. And unlike most vegetables that lose their nutrient potency when cooked, the lycopene content in tomatoes increases when you cook them. Tomato sauce, tomato paste, and tomato soup are great sources of lycopene, especially when heated.
#2. Oatmeal protects you from free radicals and acne
Oatmeal’s antioxidant properties protect from free-radical damage and help reduce acne-causing inflammation. Contrary to everything you’ve heard, oatmeal isn’t just a breakfast treat, either—a bowl in the evening before bed may help you sleep better. And there’s no doubt about the important role sleep plays in our overall health.
#3. Salmon keep down inflammation and wrinkles
Salmon and other fatty fish provide omega-3 fatty acids that inhibit the inflammatory chemicals responsible for acne breakouts. These healthy fats are also an important part of keeping your skin from becoming dull, dry, and prone to wrinkling.
#4. Dark Chocolate helps reduce stress and prevents wrinkles
Dark chocolate (with at least 70% cocoa) helps reduce stress hormones and prevents the collagen breakdown that leads to wrinkles. The cocoa flavanols also help hydrate the skin and improve circulation, keeping your skin moist and supple. All that plus antioxidants that help protect against UV damage.
#5. Avocados support skin health
Avocados offer nearly 20 vitamins and minerals and contain anti-inflammatory properties as well. This yummy creamy fruit also supports skin health by helping your body absorb vitamins A, D, E, and K from other foods.
#6. Pumpkin promotes collagen production and improves circulation
Pumpkin is a great source of vitamin C, vitamin B, beta-carotene, copper, and zinc. It’s truly a skin superfood, as it promotes collagen production, helps reverse UV damage, and improves circulation.
#7. Broccoli helps repair damaged skin
Broccoli contains a compound called glucoraphanin, which helps repair and regenerate sun-damaged skin. Broccoli is also rich in vitamins and antioxidants that help decelerate skin aging and support overall skin health.
#8. Kale boosts melanin and helps protect skin from sun damage
Kale provides high levels of vitamin C, an important nutrient for collagen production. It also contains copper, which boosts melanin and helps protect your skin from the sun. Kale’s anti-inflammatory properties decrease the likelihood of acne breakouts.
#9. Blueberries are an antioxidant that fights signs of aging
Blueberries have the highest Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) rating of almost all fruits and berries. These super antioxidant powers make blueberries a stealthy weapon in the fight against aging skin. But that’s not all. They also help clear up intestinal toxins that contribute to acne flare-ups.
#10. Almond Milk helps keep your skin smooth and fights dry skin
Almond milk provides antioxidant protection by way of vitamin E. It helps fight off the free radicals that deplete the collagen and elastin in your skin. Almond milk also contains niacin, which improves circulation and helps the skin retain moisture.
#11. Chia Seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids that fight inflammation
Chia seeds are a great source of plant-based omega-3 fats, which help fight acne-causing inflammation and keep your skin hydrated and supple. These tiny little seeds also contain high levels of tryptophan and magnesium, both of which can help lower your stress levels and decrease your risk of breaking out stress acne.
#12. Coconut oil promotes healthy hormone production & fights free radicals
Coconut oil improves digestion, reduces inflammation, promotes healthy hormone production, and increases your body’s ability to absorb vitamins A and E, both of which support optimal skin health. Coconut oil also protects you from free radicals that cause premature aging. Cook with it or eat it straight from the jar—either way, your skin will thank you.
#13. Greek yogurt is great for digestive health and preventing acne
Greek yogurt detoxifies your skin by supporting your digestive health. Although the gut-skin connection may seem abstract, numerous studies have shown direct correlations between gut health and acne. The probiotics in the yogurt help your colon eliminate waste, so your skin doesn’t have to work so hard to get rid of those toxins. The “good bacteria” in Greek yogurt helps reduce inflammation and decreases the likelihood of breakouts.
#14. Sweet Potatoes reduce wrinkles and stimulate collagen production
Sweet potatoes can help you put up a good fight against the signs of aging. They contain loads of both vitamin A and vitamin C, effectively reducing wrinkles and stimulating the production of collagen.
#15. Water fights wrinkles and pores
Water makes all the difference when it comes to skin health. Drinking enough water to stay hydrated helps keep your digestive system running smoothly and decreases the toxins in your skin. It also helps your skin remain plump and elastic, diminishing the appearance of pores and wrinkles. Hydration is one of the first defenses against both acne and premature aging of the skin.
It’s not too late to have gorgeous glowing skin!
For many people, a clear understanding of how to maintain optimal skin health comes only after years of extensive sun damage or acne scarring. But that’s no reason to throw in the towel. At Skinny Beach in San Diego, we offer several cosmetic procedures that can help undo the damage and reveal your most beautiful skin.
Give us a call at (858) 272-2021 to inquire about laser skin resurfacing, chemical peels, and other beauty treatments.
They can go hand-in-hand with your healthy diet and give you back your gorgeous glow.
