You can buy all of the $80 face serums in the world, but if your diet is trash, it’ll definitely show on your face. We already know that increasing water intake and cutting out dairy and sugar will improve our skin. But there are also foods you can add to your diet to eat your way to a better complexion. If you’re sad about having to cut the milk out of your daily latte in the name of clear skin, try these five foods for better skin in addition to your skincare routine.
1. Strawberries
Strawberries are like a superfood for your face. They’re a major source of antioxidants, which can prevent sebum from oxidizing, aka preventing blocked pores and acne. Additionally, the fruit is packed with Vitamin C which is key to producing collagen which helps to provide a clear, smooth, wrinkle-free complexion. Tom Brady doesn’t know what he’s missing.
2. Salmon
Adding wild salmon to your diet helps keep your skin supple and moisturized since salmon is a major source of omega-3 fatty acids. What’s more, swapping out other meats for salmon means you’re increasing your vitamin D intake which helps to strengthen your skin, teeth, and bones.
3. Broccoli
Broccoli (the kind your mom tried to shove down your throat as a kid, not Lil Yachty’s kind) is actually one of the major foods for better skin. Not only is the veggie good for your health, but it contains a substance called glucoraphanin that gets converted into sulforaphane inside the body. Sulforaphane aids in skin repair and renewal, leaving you with a natural glow. The little trees are packed with Vitamins A and C which, like strawberries, contribute to collagen production to prevent wrinkles.
4. Walnuts
IMO, walnuts are like the unsung hero of nuts. They’re a source of “good” or nourishing fats that attract moisture from the air to soothe dry skin, reduce skin inflammation, and can help to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. You still need sunscreen though, just so we’re clear.
5. Kale
If you’re one of those people that pays like, $9 for a kale smoothie just to look like you’re doing the whole health thing right, then you’re already on to something (and you probably don’t have dark circles under your eyes, either). Kale is loaded with Vitamins A, C and K, plus iron and antioxidants. They help reduce the dark circles under your eyes, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, reduce swelling and detoxify your skin. Basically, eating a shit ton of kale targets just about any skin issue.
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