All of us want clear, healthy skin but not all of us get to enjoy clear, healthy skin! It’s true that skincare can be a tough nut to crack at times and a variety of factors — from genetics to topical skincare — work together to determine what kind of skin you’ll have.
However, when it comes to getting and maintaining clear, healthy skin, what you eat definitely plays a big role. Your diet has a massive impact on the health of your skin, so don’t underestimate it!
You might have noticed that your skin breaks out more, looks oily, and feels heavier on days when you eat more junk food than healthy food. This is a clear (pun intended) indication that your skin does best with healthy foods.
Is there a one-size-fits-all clear skin diet? No, but there are foods that are scientifically known to clear up your skin and maintain its health.
So, what food helps clear skin? What foods make skin glow? Here are 5 of the best foods you should eat regularly for clear, healthy skin:
1. Water
Yes, we know you must have heard this many times, but it’s true! The answer to your much searched query of “What can I drink to clear my skin?” is this: water.
Water is essential for keeping your skin hydrated and preventing dryness, which can lead to breakouts and itchiness.
Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin looking its best. Studies have shown that people who stay hydrated (and not over-hydrated) have better skin than those who stay dehydrated.
Try to drink around 3 litres of water a day. Generally, doctors suggest that men should drink around 15.5 cups (3.7 liters or 0.97 gallons) and women should drink around 11.5 cups (2.7 liters or 0.71 gallons) of water a day.
If you find it hard to drink that much water, you can also eat foods that are high in water content such as watermelon, strawberries, cucumber, and lettuce.
2. Salmon
Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for maintaining clear, youthful skin. Omega-3s reduce inflammation and can also help prevent wrinkles.
In fact, doctors often suggest that people with eczema and acne eat salmon, as it can help in combating flare-ups. So, seriously consider adding this fish to your clear skin diet! Eat salmon a few times per week to reap the benefits for your skin.
3. Avocados
Sure, fruits are obviously good for skin. But have you wondered which fruit is best for skin? Avocados are pretty high up on that list! It is a great source of healthy fats, which are essential for clear and healthy skin.
Avocados also contain vitamins E and C, which help protect your skin from damage and can even help reduce the appearance of wrinkles. They also increase skin elasticity, moisture, and softness. Add avocado to your salads, sandwiches, and smoothies for an extra boost of skin-healthy nutrients.
4. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that helps protect your skin from damage (particularly photodamage). Lycopene can also help reduce inflammation, promote clear skin, encourage collagen growth, and prevent skin aging.
Tomatoes also contain beta-carotene and vitamin C, both of which protect and maintain your skin’s health and appearance. Eat tomatoes raw, in a salad, or cooked in your favorite dish to enjoy its benefits!
5. Leafy Vegetables
Yes, this is more of a food group but it’s important for your skin! Leafy greens like kale, broccoli, and spinach are loaded with nutrients that are good for your body’s largest organ. They contain vitamins A, C and E, which help protect your skin from external and sun damage, dryness, and inflammation.
They also contain antioxidants (such as beta-carotene) that promote clear skin and encourage skin cell repair and folate, which helps combat skin aging and increases skin firmness. Eat a big bowl of leafy greens every day to enjoy beautiful, clear skin.
So, there you have it — 5 of the best foods for clear, healthy skin. Incorporate these into your diet and we’re sure you’ll see a difference in your skin’s appearance.
You won’t see a difference overnight, but eventually you will get to enjoy clear, healthy skin and a better lifestyle thanks to your nutritious clear skin diet!
Of course, if you have serious skin issues that aren’t going away easily, it’s best to consult a dermatologist.