Eating a balanced diet full of healthy nutrients is key to maintaining not only your health, but also great skin. All fruits and vegetables are packed with good-for-you ingredients, but some really stand out when it comes to clearing and brightening up your skin. Load up on these skin superfoods to see big changes in your complexion:
Sweet Potatoes, Red Peppers, Carrots
Carotenoids, the chemical compounds that give red, yellow and orange produce their color, give your skin a more golden hue and cause naturally glowing effect. (So yes, there’s some truth to the idea that too many carrots can turn your skin orange!) Studies have shown that people who eat carotenoid-rich foods have a healthier-looking complexion. In one study, researchers found that three portions over six weeks is sufficient to make facial skin appear healthier and ultimately, more attractive. It also revealed that people who don’t get enough carotenoids can look paler and less healthy.
Avocados, Olive Oil
Cutting fat out of your diet altogether can leave you with dry, flaky skin that’s unable to lubricate itself properly. But healthy fats, like the monounsaturated ones found in avocados and olive oil, are both excellent for both your health and keeping skin properly hydrated. Also, pairing healthy fats with carotenoid-rich foods can actually help increase absorption of those complexion-brightening compounds, helping them do their job better. Avocados also contain linoleic acid, which helps the skin hold onto water. The result? Less dryness and thinning, more plumpness and radiance!
Kiwis, Lemons, Oranges, Mangoes
Full of vitamins C and E, the antioxidants in kiwis protect the skin from damage while also rejuvenating skin. Vitamin C, which is also found in other fruits like lemons, oranges and mangoes, also plays a big role in collagen synthesis. Loading up on fruits with vitamin C will help protect against wrinkles and other signs of aging that happen when collagen begins to break down.
Blueberries, Strawberries
Berries, especially blueberries and strawberries, are high in antioxidants, which neutralize free radicals and protect skin cells from damage. Additionally, the vitamin C packed inside each berry not only helps skin glow, but also heals blemishes and protects against wrinkles and sun spots.
For a truly stunning complexion, pair these foods with exceptional brightening skincare products to illuminate skin from both the inside and out. Our favorites are from StriVectin’s Brighten & Perfect Collection. Start with the Intensive Illuminating Serum, a lightweight serum with patented NIA-114 anti-aging technology that minimizes environmental damage and a potent brightening complex that helps inhibit melanin production to diminish dark spots and discoloration. Next, apply the Radiance Refining Moisturizer to help strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier and deeply hydrate it, while further refining texture and evening out skin tone. For an extra boost of brightening, use the Instant Revitalizing Mask two to three times per week; the 15-minute mask clarifies, immediately brightens, and refines the skin for a smooth, glowing complexion.
This post is sponsored by StriVectin.
