From washing with cleansers to applying sunscreen, much of proper skin care focuses on the outside of your body. However, it’s important to remember that healthy skin also depends on what’s happening inside your body. For example, the types of food you eat can harm or help your appearance by impacting the quality of your skin. To ensure you’re following a dermatology-friendly diet, here are a few foods you should eat — and why.

5 Foods That Enhance Your Skin Care Routine

1. Citrus Fruits

Vitamin C — commonly found in citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits — is well-known for its ability to boost the immune system. But this antioxidant is also known to produce a wide range of skin care benefits. For starters, it helps support healthy production of collagen, a protein that minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It may also help defend against sun damage caused by UV rays.

2. Almonds

Almonds, as well as other nuts, contain a healthy amount of vitamin E. As an antioxidant, vitamin E can help defend your skin from cancer-causing elements — such as those brought on by the sun’s rays. It also helps strengthen the outer layers of your skin to keep moisture in and dryness at bay.

3. Olive Oil

In addition to being a delicious topping or cooking element, olive oil can provide considerable anti-aging benefits. Recent research suggests that consuming olive oil provides the body with ample monounsaturated fatty acids — a nutritional compound that fights against oxidative stress, insulin resistance, and related inflammatory processes, all of which can improve the appearance of the skin.

4. Kale

Kale may provide many nutrients, but lutein and zeaxanthin are among the most beneficial for skin care. According to medical research, these nutrients help absorb free radicals from UV light, and in turn, minimize the appearance of sun damage. It can also help supplement the skin cancer defense offered by your sunscreen.  

5. Oysters

Oysters are high in zinc — an essential mineral that plays a major role in skin development. In fact, nearly 6% of the body’s zinc is found in the skin. As such, consuming oysters for zinc can help you produce healthier skin cells. By contrast, not having enough of the mineral may result in an increased risk of acne, dermatitis, and other common dermatological issues.

In addition to consuming more nutritious foods, talking to a dermatologist is one of the best ways to improve your overall skin health. That’s why High Point, NC, residents turn to Central Carolina Dermatology. Providing customized care for every patient, this clinic can help clear acne, minimize psoriasis, and reverse signs of aging through state-of-the-art skin care treatments. For more information on these services, visit this friendly dermatology practice online. To schedule an appointment, call (336) 887-3195 today.