Smooth, soft and radiant, are the words everyone wants to be associated with their skin. But, a trip to the dermatologist will tell you it's easier said than done.
While a TV commercial might say that a facial cream is all you need for healthy skin, the experts will always disagree. How your skin looks is an outcome of many factors. Though your skincare routine is a very prominent contributor to your appearance, it's not the only one. Your diet and mental health also have a significant impact on your skin.
When you're making an effort to use the right products for the perfect glow, it's only sensible that you eat the right foods too. That's why we've put together a list that is sure to aid you on your journey to healthy and beautiful skin. For more information on how to treat your skin right, head over to emeds pharmacy today.
1. Fatty fish:
You may have heard about the advantages of fish oils and supplements for hair growth. But, to everyone's benefit, the key ingredient in fatty fish, i.e., omega-3 fatty acids, are not only valuable for the scalp, but they're also great at helping your skin.
Salmon, sardines, herring, etc., are your best sources of fatty acids. Your skin requires fatty acids to remain soft and firm. Since the body cannot produce these fatty acids on its own, you need to consume them to maintain a healthy composition. They allow your skin to react better towards UV radiation and bring down inflammation. They're also a great source of protein, which is integral for maintaining the facial muscles.
2. Walnuts:
If you're not a fan of seafood, there's another source you can fulfil your omega-3 fatty acids requirements from, walnuts. Walnuts have a high dose of omega-3 fatty acids. Thus, they aid collagen production. Collagen is a protein that plays a vital role in maintaining the skin's elasticity hence, reducing signs of ageing. A handful of walnuts every day will add to your fresh and vibrant look.
3. Green tea:
What if you could enjoy a refreshing drink while your skin repairs and rejuvenates? With a cup of green tea, all of this is possible. Green tea contains potent compounds such as polyphenols which target bacteria, helping reduce acne. The antioxidants called catechins help the blood flow to your face increase steadily every time you take green tea. The increased blood flow makes the facial muscles healthier and younger.
4. Almonds:
Believe it or not, you can provide your skin with nourishment during snack time. Almonds make for a tasty treat and a great companion to your moisture barrier. They contain a sizable amount of vitamin E. Vitamin E aids your skin in adjusting the sun's exposure and adds the necessary moisture to it. If you think your cheeks are getting a bit patchy, it's time to munch on some almonds.
5. Dark chocolate:
Speaking of snacks, another delicious goodie that won't just please your taste buds but also your skin is dark chocolate. Dark chocolate contains antioxidants known as flavanols in a high concentration. The amount of antioxidants does vary depending on the cocoa content of chocolate, though. The correct percentage of cocoa means you will reap the benefits of flavanols, including a reduction in the appearance of wrinkles and an increase in elasticity, and lesser chances of sun damage.
6. Avocados:
Maybe apples aren't the only fruit that keeps the doctor away; in fact, with an avocado a day, you'll probably find yourself delaying your trips to the dermatologist. Avocados don't just contain many vitamins and nutrients, like vitamins A, B, and E; they also have heart-healthy fat.
The body isn't capable of producing this kind of fat. Hence, it needs to be consumed externally, for which Avocados are the perfect source. Starting the day with avocado will surely turn things around for your skin.
7. Olive oil:
Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats. Such fats are essential for maintaining water levels through some layers of the skin, thus adding to hydration. They contribute to the skin's youthful glow and firmness. These properties make olive oil the best choice for preparing your everyday meals.
8. Berries:
Free radicals are one of the most substantial contributors to ageing. Antioxidants protect against free radicals and control the skin's reactions to sun exposure. Since berries contain immense amounts of antioxidants, they're not just a tasty fruit but also a helpful tool for the skin. They also inhibit the production of enzymes that break down facial proteins, ultimately increasing sun damage. Hence, they also decrease inflammation.
9. Soy:
A significant reason why you often experience bad texture across the skin is an imbalance of hormones. Soy helps regulate this hormonal activity. Thus, making sure your skin is always plump and glowy. It also prevents melanin from gathering across the outer layer of your skin, which means you can say goodbye to dark and uneven spots.
10. Watermelon:
If you're tired of waking up to puffy eyes that won't go back to normal for hours, there's a straightforward, very fruity solution for you, increase your watermelon intake. Watermelons have a high concentration of water.
When the skin receives this excess water, it can easily let go of the water it's been hoarding across your skin. When the water retention in your face goes down, your puffiness will automatically decrease. And since watermelons contain very little sugar, you won't be upsetting your glucose levels either.
Final word:
Your skin is a complex part of your body, and there's a lot that determines how it looks and how it feels. By now, you've probably realised what kind of an impact your diet has on your skin and how you might have been mistreating your skin by eating unhealthy foods.
It's time to make healthy choices for your skin and nourish it with the care it deserves. With this list in mind, the next time you're out grocery shopping, it'll be easy enough to grab the right foods so that you don't just feel healthy and strong; you also look the part.
