A good skincare routine is about not only washing and moisturizing but also consuming skincare superfoods to boost health. Whatever we eat directly affects the skin. Experts suggest that having a diet rich in healthy fats, vitamin C, antioxidants, amino acids, and collagen can alter an otherwise dull and tired skin into a fresh and glowing one.

1. Skincare superfoods to add to your diet

Fill up your pantry with these skincare superfoods.

• Avocado

Avocados are excellent skincare superfoods. With loads of good poly and monounsaturated fatty acids such as omega 9, they keep your skin looking fresh and radiant. They also boost healthy cell regeneration, reduce puffiness, and eliminate wrinkles. Avocados contain abundant antioxidants called carotenoids that fight free radical damage and maintain skin elasticity and water content.

• Turmeric

Turmeric is an excellent skincare superfood. It has incredible anti-inflammatory properties that reduce skin aging and wrinkles. Curcumin, an antioxidant present in turmeric inhibits skin bacteria. Eating or drinking fresh turmeric juice also helps prevent inflammation and keeps skin looking younger.

• Blueberries

Berries are the richest source of antioxidants. Eating blueberries is an easy way of getting plenty of skin-friendly antioxidants which fight free radical damage. Free radicals are the worst enemies of the skin that damage collagen and skin cells to cause dry skin and wrinkles. Blueberries have vitamin A that normalizes the level of skin oils and naturally clears up acne-prone skin.

• Dark chocolate

Eating dark chocolate can give you a glowing and radiant skin. It contains cocoa flavonoids, a plant compound that helps hydrate the skin while improving blood circulation.

2. But are these skincare superfoods enough?

In addition to these skincare superfoods, you need a dedicated skincare routine to maintain skin health.

3. Sun protection

Protecting your skin from the sun is the first step of taking care of it. Prolonged sun exposure causes age spots, wrinkles, and various skin problems. It also increases the risk of skin cancer.

Here are some daily skincare tips to follow:

• Use a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher. Apply it generously for better protection.
• Wear shades to cover the skin under the eyes, especially when the sun is at its strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM.
• Wear light and protective clothing. Cover the skin with long-sleeved shirts and long pants when roaming out in summer.
• Avoid smoking as it leads to rapid skin aging. It narrows skin blood vessels and makes the skin pale and dull. It also depletes the skin of nutrients and oxygen. Smoking damages elastin and collagen production too.
• Treat the skin gently. Limit long hot water showers as it removes the skin’s natural oils. Avoid strong, fragrant soaps. Choose mild cleansers. Always pat skin dry after bathing or washing, and apply a moisturizer.
• Stress increases skin problems, leads to acne breakouts, and makes it sensitive. For glowing healthy skin, take the necessary steps to manage stress. Get enough sleep and workout.

Lastly, stay hydrated. The skin needs plenty of water to replenish. Give yourself a water break from time to time for youthful skin.