If you believe your skin’s health is solely determined by the products you apply, then you could be missing a key ingredient (literally). In conjunction with investing in quality skincare, you can also swipe off years from your skin simply by downing the right ingredients.
Here’s a list of our top 7 face-friendly foods for a younger-than-ever complexion.
1. Blueberries
Blueberries can reduce signs of ageing such as sun damage, wrinkles, dry skin and age spots thanks to their high antioxidant content. A lot of this damage is caused by the presence of free radicals, which are the result of oxidisation. Antioxidants inhibit the production of free radicals, keeping skin in top shape for longer while healing broken capillaries and strengthening blood vessels, minimising redness.
2. Kale
It’s impossible to open a magazine or scroll through a blog without some mention of this nutrient-rich superfood, but did you know the health benefits extend to your appearance? Kale has very high levels of nutrients lutein and zeaxanthin, which absorb and counteract free radicals created by UV light, according to a 2009 study in Clinics in Dermatology - even those that manage to get through sunscreen to the skin and cause dark spots!
3. Fish
Fish has long been touted as one of the most important foods to consume when it comes to your skins health, and with a long list of skin benefits, it’s no surprise why. Fish is a great source of essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6, which reduce inflammation. Anyone with dry or inflamed skin will benefit from increasing their omega-3 intake. Just two 150g servings of fish a week can do the trick!
4. Cherries
Not only are these yummy delights they full of those all-important antioxidants, but cherries are rich in melatonin, the natural hormone our brain produces to induce and regulate sleep. If you struggle to get your 8 hours, a handful after dinner could be all you need for some youth-inducing beauty sleep.
5. Pomegranates
The beauty benefits of Pomegranate are definitely worth the red fingers. They act as an anti-inflammatory, keeping skin calm and even. Pomegranates are also rich in Vitamin C, which plays a vital role in the formation of collagen.
6. Tomatoes
A tomato-rich diet as well as a top-notch facial sunscreen is the ultimate in sun protection and a fighter against pesky wrinkles and deep fine lines. That’s because tomatoes contain lycopene, which helps strengthen skin by inhibiting the activity of collagenases – enzymes involved in the breakdown of collagen in the skin.
7. Dark Chocolate
We saved the best news for last, not only is dark chocolate delicious, it can actually be really, really good for your skin! When consumed in moderation, dark chocolate has great skin (and health) benefit. It contains flavonoids which is the antioxidant that works wonders for your skin. It helps protect your skin from UV damage and fights free radicals - so that your skin stays younger for longer.. Hallelujah!
