Superfoods for skin problems
“Beauty starts from within” is the perfect old axiom for the skin. What you eat has a direct impact on your skin and eating a healthy diet that is full of good fats, amino acids, antioxidants, collagen, and vitamin C can mean the difference between a fresh and glowing complexion and a tired, wrinkled one.
If you are not specifically eating superfoods for glowing skin and are instead constantly binging on processed foods or those high in sugar and fat and completely devoid of fiber, it can be visible in the form of dull skin, perhaps along with other skin issues like acne, under-eye circles, dryness, or oiliness.
Depending on different skin problems, there are certain skin superfoods that you can include in your diet for healthy, glowing, and problem-free skin.
Dark circles
- Spinach – Green, leafy vegetables like spinach, collard greens, and kale, along with broccoli and Brussel sprouts are rich in vitamin K, which is a powerhouse nutrient when it comes to improving the blood circulation and coagulation. Spinach is loaded with zinc as well. Zinc has shown to help reduce inflammation and aid in preventing acne breakouts. Additionally, spinach, collard greens, and kale contain zeaxanthin, which is a naturally occurring antioxidant that protects your skin and helps even out your skin tone.
Dark spots
- Citrus fruits – Citrus fruits are rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin C, which helps in calming inflamed skin and brightening dark spots. It also evens out skin tone. Tangerines, oranges, and grapefruits are the main sources of vitamin C. All fruits that are sour are rich sources of vitamin C.
- Bell peppers – These are another rich source of vitamin C, and they help in smoothening the skin. They also lighten the appearance of dark spots. Bell peppers help fight hyperpigmentation. Cauliflowers, broccoli, and berries also can be a replacement for bell peppers, if you are not fond of this spicy vegetable.
Dull complexion
- Paprika – The dullness of skin can be reduced with paprika. It is a great source of antioxidants and vitamins C and E. It nourishes your dull skin and makes it look lively. Paprika also consists of beneficial carotenoids like zeaxanthin. The best way to eat it is to sprinkle it on sweet potatoes or rub it on chicken before roasting.
- Turmeric – This spice is used by all top chefs and is great for a good reason. It combats all free radicals that lead to dullness. Turmeric promotes collagen and helps renew and rejuvenate skin. It also helps fight fine lines and wrinkles. Turmeric gets rid of dull complexion and makes skin radiant.
Oily skin
- Sweet potatoes – There is no reason for you to go carb-free just because you are after getting perfect skin. Sweet potatoes are full of vitamin A. Vitamin A derivatives have shown to aid in reducing oil production in the skin and are used to treat acne. Another solid source of vitamin A is a carrot.
- Cinnamon – If you have noticed that your skin looks great in the fall and the winter season, it isn’t because of the soft glow of Christmas lights, but instead it is all the cinnamon in the season’s goodies. This basic spice is great for stimulating circulation and blood flow, which brings oxygen and nutrients directly to the skin. Additionally, some studies have shown that cinnamon could help in stabilizing and balancing the blood sugar levels. This is important when a diet that is heavy in sugar and refined carbs can stimulate oil production. You can add a dash of this spice to your coffee or tea to start your day right or blend it into a morning smoothie.