The 6 Foods that Will Save Your Skin

If you want clean, healthy skin look no further than what you are putting into your body. There is ample research these days that says what you eat can affect many aspects of your body, but especially your skin. There are many sources that cite specific foods that are good for your skin.  Below, we list six that we believe are most beneficial and are consistently credited with skin benefits.

1.       Water

Hydration plays a big role in keeping skin looking healthy and young, according to many sources. Additionally, it is suggested that hard water, the kind that is high in minerals, is especially good. Water is also helpful in getting cells to move nutrients in and toxins out of the body. Prevention says that water makes your skin appear plumper and less wrinkled.

2.       Dark chocolate

Chocolate contains high levels of antioxidants called flavanols, which Fitness Magazine says will hydrate your skin and make it firmer and more supple. Prevention.com also mentions dark chocolate as having skin benefits saying that it not only hydrate skin, but also improves circulation.

3.       Oatmeal

In this category, steel cut oats are the best choice because they are less processed, therefore retaining more vitamins, according to Fit  Magazine. The Huffington Post featured an article on oatmeal’s beauty benefits saying it is full of vitamins, minerals, and lipids that will add moisture to skin. It also contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties so it is ideal for sensitive skin, and can be used in a bath soak or face wash.

4.       Green Tea

Green tea has health benefits that can reach all parts of the body, but in regards to skin, sources say that it can reduce redness, make your skin more elastic and smooth and boost blood flow and oxygen to the skin. WebMD says green tea may even help prevent or reduce the risk of skin cancer.

5.       Walnuts

Walnuts contain omega-3 essential fatty acids, which not only softens skin but improve its elasticity as well. Prevention.com lists walnuts as especially important to vegetarians who skip fish because omega-3 fatty acids are essential to the diet.

6.       Tomatoes

This vegetable is the most beneficial for your skin when it is cooked. This way, your body will gain the most sun shielding nutrients. According to Women’s Health Magazine, lycopene is the phytochemical that makes tomatoes red and has the ability to eliminate skin-again free radicals from UV rays. Prevention.com also says that tomatoes improve our skin’s natural SPF to protect against the sun’s harmful rays.

In general, remember to stay away from processed foods and added sugars as best you can, and instead stick with natural, whole foods. If you make an effort to incorporate some of these six foods into your eating habits, your skin will surely reap the benefits.

If you have any questions about what you are eating and its affect on your skin, our team at Greenville Dermatology is available for answers and advice. Call Greenville Dermatology at 864-242-5872 to schedule an appointment today.