The Best Foods For Your Skin - Aveda Institutes

You’ve heard the old saying, “you are what you eat.”  While that may not exactly be true, the foods you eat do have a great impact on the overall condition of your skin. No matter your age, it’s never too early to start taking care of your complexion.
Dermatologists and cosmetologists agree that that major antioxidants such as Vitamin A, C and E can all help decrease the risk of sun and environmental damage by free radicals. Good sources of these vitamins include:

• Vitamin A: pumpkin, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, mangoes, spinach, cantaloupe, greens, kale, Swiss chard, and tomato-vegetable juice.

• Vitamin C: orange juice, grapefruit juice, papayas, strawberries, kiwis, red and green peppers, cantaloupes, tomato-vegetable juice, broccoli, mangoes, oranges, Brussels sprouts, grapefruit, cauliflower, and kale.

• Vitamin E: vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, olives, spinach, and asparagus.

Omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats have both been associated with favorable skin pH, or the balance between the acidity and alkalinity that is important for healthy skin. Omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats can be found in fish, ground flaxseed, walnuts, olive oil, canola oil, avocados, almonds, hazelnuts, and certain brands of eggs.
You may think that iceberg lettuce is good for you, but it actually contains very few nutrients. Try to load up on dark leafy greens like baby spinach or kale instead, both of which are high in hyaluronic acid—a substance that helps your skin retain moisture.
Proper hydration is crucial to maintaining the overall health and youthfulness of your skin. Did you know that being dehydrated makes your wrinkles look deeper? Be sure to drink at least 64 oz. of water a day to keep your skin hydrated and looking fresh.
Changing your diet can be difficult. Be sure to give yourself and your body time to acclimate. Treat yourself for all of your hard work…you’ll deserve it! Rejuvenate your skin with a facial or resurfacing treatment.