We do lots of things to feel healthy and strong, but there’s something to be said for looking good too—and that means caring for the one part of the body that’s always on display. Nothing can magically make you look decades younger, but you do have some control over how you protect and improve the health of your skin. Having a skincare regimen helps, as does smearing on sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, year-round and limiting stress.
What you eat also plays a major role. Feeding your skin is just like feeding your heart or brain—skin thrives on the right nutrients to stay strong, resilient, and healthy.
Vitamins A, C, and E and omega-3 fatty acids are happy-skin essentials. Also, zinc aids in wound healing, biotin can help skin stay hydrated and elastic, and selenium guards against sun damage. Load up on these rejuvenating picks and see the difference in your skin.
PEANUTS
They have vitamin E, one of skin’s main bodyguards, helping shield it from free radicals (molecules that can cause cellular damage that may impact skin integrity or appearance). Peanuts are also high in niacin and zinc, which improve skin hydration and increase its healing capabilities. If you’re allergic to peanuts, reach for sunflower seeds or almonds.
CAULIFLOWER
It boasts vitamin C, a necessity for the body’s creation of collagen, which helps maintain skin firmness and reduce signs of aging, (Bell peppers, citrus, and strawberries are other C-centric picks.) Cauliflower also offers vitamin K, which may improve skin discoloration.
MACKEREL
This fatty fish is a good source of omega-3’s, which help keep skin hydrated and reduce inflammation; it also offers vitamin D, which contributes to new skin cell growth and protects against harmful UV damage. In addition, mackerel delivers selenium, a mineral that can help skin heal from wounds (including from acne).
TOMATOES
These have lycopene, an antioxidant that has been shown to offer protection from the sun’s UV rays as well as boost skin’s natural texture while preventing fine lines and wrinkles. Tomatoes also contain beta-carotene, which is converted by the body into vitamin A to promote skin renewal and repair.
