In this space we often write about cosmetic enhancement solutions such as laser skin treatments, microdermabrasion, and other treatments that repair and rejuvenate sun-damaged skin. Today, however, we’re focusing on a prevention strategy.
Our article focuses on two of Team Costhetics’ favourite topics: food and healthy skin. The link between them is particularly timely, as beach season is on the horizon. Australians will soon be upping outdoor time, and the risk of sun-related skin problems.
Did you know that there are foods you can eat that will actually help inoculate your skin from the damaging effects of the sun? If not, we hope the information you find here will help you enjoy the summer safely and deliciously.
5 Ageing Skin Problems Experienced by Sun Worshippers
Too much fun in the sun can be extremely damaging to your skin, with UV rays leading to
- Static wrinkles
- Fine lines
- Age spots
- Mottled pigmentation
- Loss of elastin and collagen tissue (elastosis)
- Sagging skin
- Skin lesions
- Skin cancer
Carefully (and repeatedly) applying a good sunscreen is the best way to prevent unwelcome skin problems. Your back-up defence, however, should be power foods that help minimise the effects of the sun and keep skin-ageing problems at bay.
What to Eat to Protect Summer Skin
One of the great things about sun-centric food choices is that they will protect you and your skin all year round. You’ll also be pleased to know that many of the items we’ve identified as part of a sun-care diet are likely to be in your refrigerator already.
Go ahead and enjoy
- Carrots/Sweet Potatoes – Both of these sweet veggies are a great source of the antioxidant beta-carotene. Carrots were the subject of a recent study in Korea where scientists found that the cheerful orange veggie can not only prevent sun damage, but also repair cells that have already experienced photo-ageing.
- Dark Chocolate – Deep, dark chocolate, made with 65% or more raw cocoa, is rich in flavonoids, antioxidants that help protect the body from sun damage.
- Kiwis – Ounce for ounce, kiwis have more Vitamin C than any other fruit. Vitamin C helps block the development of cancer cells related to sun exposure.
- Leafy Greens, Purples, Reds, & Oranges – The rule of thumb is the deeper the colour of the vegetable, the more nutritious it is, with lots of valuable antioxidants to help reverse free-radical damage in the body. Make a rainbow on your plate with radishes, kale, purple cabbage and orange squash.
- Tomatoes/Watermelon – Tomatoes and watermelon are major sources of lycopene, an antioxidant proven to provide long-term protection against UV-radiation-induced effects.
Several members of the Costhetics team were excited to learn that drinking can help keep your skin radiant. That excitement was tempered when they learned that what they should be drinking is
- Green tea – contains EGCG, a chemical that can decrease inflammation and fight free radicals that could lead to the development of skin cancer
Enjoy your summer and enjoy your skin!