There are certain elements that make up every good skincare routine; an effective cleanser, a weekly exfoliant, and a moisturizer that suits your skin - and that's just scratching the surface! If you love creating skincare routines, you'll know just how many elements you can add. But have you ever thought about feeding your skin?
Trust us, it's not as weird as it sounds! By creating balance within your body and nourishing yourself, you could see huge changes in your skin. From shrinking pores to reducing fine lines, a fresh, glowing face starts with diet.
Reduce Inflammation With Pro and Prebiotics
When your gut isn't in sync, your skin will let you know. From redness to excess oils, your body isn't shy when it's trying to get your attention. Your gut is closely linked to your skin, and problems like eczema, dermatitis, and acne could be traced back to this connection. Luckily, oral probiotics are here to help. An oral probiotic delivers good bacteria straight to your gut to create a more healthy, balanced system. Taking probiotics has also been shown to reduce oiliness and acne, bringing harmonious balance back to your skin!
If you think the bacteria on your face rather than your gut could be the problem, we've got you covered. Applying a probiotic or prebiotic directly to the skin can help:
- Reduce inflammation
- Prevent acne
- Restore your natural skin barrier
- Decrease sensitivity
The skin on your face has a super delicate microbiome that needs to be balanced. Using a probiotic replenishes the good bacteria to help your skin thrive, while prebiotics feed good bacteria, leaving harmful bacteria to starve. If you have skin issues, like eczema or acne, this could be the key to banishing them for good!
Take a look at our range of pre and probiotic skincare to try it for yourself.
Prevent Ageing With Tomatoes
If you're trying to prevent ageing, don't forget to tailor your diet. What you eat will affect how your skin ages, and the right food will compliment anti-ageing serums and treatments to give you a youthful glow.
One of the best foods to freeze time on your face are tomatoes. These are full of a powerful antioxidant, lycopene, which can protect your skin from UV damage - the leading cause of premature ageing. They also contain beta carotene and lutein, which can fight the formation of wrinkles. All in all, tomatoes are a bit of a superfood!
Ditch Dairy For Your Skin and the Planet
Did you know that a hormone in cows milk can trigger acne outbreaks?
It's actually just one hormone that's to blame - IGF-1. If you've ever struggled with acne and visited a dermatologist, they've probably recommended that you cut out dairy, and you should listen!
Not only could a dairy-free diet help you achieve clear skin, but it'll also help the planet and reduce the carbon footprint of your meal. In our books, that's a win-win.
Firm Up With Bell Peppers
Collagen is one of the most vital building blocks for firm, healthy skin. But, as you age, your body naturally slows down its production, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and a loss of elasticity.
However, you don't just have to sit back and watch this happen. By eating more foods that contain vitamin C - an essential building block for collagen -, you can give your cells a boost and rejuvenate your skin.
One of the best foods to increase collagen production is bell peppers. These sweet, juicy vegetables contain a tremendous amount of vitamin C. In fact, one cup of chopped bell peppers contains 211% of your recommended daily value, which your skin is bound to thank you for.
A Skin-Friendly Excuse to Eat Chocolate!
If you're looking for an excuse to eat chocolate, you’ve just found one! Dark chocolate contains a lot of antioxidants that can protect and support your skin. By eating just a little bit of dark chocolate every day (look out for those with cocoa percentages of 80% and higher), your skin could become more hydrated, less sensitive to UV rays and air pollution, and be all-around healthier.
As if chocolate wasn't wonderful enough already, right?
Find Out More About How to Look After Your Skin
Whether you suffer from skin issues, like acne or dermatitis, or you're looking to prevent ageing and keep your skin super glowy, putting the work in is essential. Eating carefully and keeping up with a skincare routine that works for you is a must! But, if you're not a dermatologist, it can be hard to know where to start.
If you're struggling, be sure to get in touch with our team care@nativessentials.com we'll be happy to help! Or, look through our range of sustainable, natural skincare products for treatments designed to make a difference on your skin.
This article was written by our guest writer, Jessica Cull. Jessica runs Captured Writing, a sustainable copywriting company for eco-friendly brands.