Forget a Facialist: All You Need for Flawless Skin Are These 8 Foods
If we could turn back time.
![Wood, Food, Ingredient, Fruit, Produce, Vegan nutrition, Natural foods, Whole food, Still life photography, Plate,](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/UwknT28p5sTXjv9PuGgCaL-415-80.jpg)
You can go to extreme measures for youthful-looking skin, like spending a month's rent on a fancy treatment and drinking human blood à la Pharrell (we kid). Or you could simply rejuvenate your grocery list.
As any esthetician worth her salt will tell you, a tailored diet can be one of the greatest assets to your skincare regimen, and ultimately your secret to the fountain of youth. It's all about looking to super-nutritious foods that promote cell regeneration, reduce free radical damage, and keep skin hydrated.
We asked Stephanie Middleberg, RD and founder of Middleberg Nutrition in NYC, to break down the foods that will keep skin glowing and wrinkle-free.
1. Berries
"Berries contain some of the most potent sources of antioxidants, specifically anthocyanin, which protects skin cells from free radical damage and combats oxidative stress, one of the main causes of aging. When protected from damage at the cellular level, the skin looks younger for longer."
2. Anything with Omega-3
"Think foods like sardines, wild salmon, and anchovies. They're a great source of omega-3s and antioxidants that work to fight inflammation, reduce skin conditions like psoriasis, and help to keep skin hydrated and moist by forming strong cell walls and assist with cell repair. Plus, protein is needed to build and repair skin cells."
3. Avocados
"They're a great source of vitamin E, B vitamins, potassium, and monounsaturated fatty acids. They hydrate the skin and maintain flexibility."
4. Nuts and Seeds
"Both are rich in Vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps to reduce free radical damage caused by smoke, pollution, and sunlight. They're a good source of protein, fiber, and omegas. Chia is a great source of essential fatty acids that nourish the skin and help to attract and absorb water for added hydration."
5. Turmeric
"Turmeric contains some of the highest levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties of all foods and spices. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric responsible for its bright color, is behind the many health benefits attributed to this culinary spice. It protects skin cells from free radical damage, improves concentration, and slows the formation of wrinkles and fine lines."
6. Tomatoes
"They have lycopene, an antioxidant that fights off free radical damage, which contributes to skin looking worn and dry."
7. Leafy Green Veggies
"They're filled with vitamins and minerals including vitamins E, K, and A. Vitamin A supports cell growth and skin-turnover and prevents dry, rough skin. Vitamin K helps to fortify blood vessel walls and helps to reduce under eye circles. Eating foods rich in these antioxidants can reduce your risk of age-related macular degeneration."
8. Cucumbers
"Not only are they high in silica, but they also prevent water retention and reduce swelling and puffiness under the eyes."
You should also check out:
The Ultimate Health Guide to Getting Good Skin
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
Never-Before-Heard Beauty Tips to Get You Perfect Skin in 2015
Lauren Valenti is Vogue’s former senior beauty editor. Her work has also appeared on ELLE.com, MarieClaire.com, and in In Style. She graduated with a liberal arts degree from Eugene Lang College, The New School for Liberal Arts, with a concentration on Culture and Media Studies and a minor in Journalism.
-
Our Complete Quiet Luxury Shopping Guide
30 quality closet classics that always have—and always will—endure.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Kaia Gerber and Cindy Crawford Medal in Mother-Daughter Olympic Matching
The pair touched down in Paris wearing coordinating navy looks.
By Julia Marzovilla Published
-
Prince Harry Reveals Royal Family Rift Was Worsened by Tabloids
"Yeah, that’s certainly a central piece to it."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
This Valentino Perfume Is the Best Fragrance of 2024, According to Beauty Experts
It's a layerable, floral fragrance.
By Samantha Holender Published
-
Is Colostrum the New Collagen?
Doctors and wellness professionals have a lot to say about TikTok's supplement of the moment.
By Gabrielle Ulubay Published
-
TikTok Is Making "Unsexy" Beauty Products Seem Very Appealing
There's more to worthwhile products than pretty packaging.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
Fendi's First Fragrances Are Designed for Fashion Obsessives
It's finally available to shop.
By Halie LeSavage Last updated
-
Why Beauty Experts Are Calling Out Youthforia's New Foundation
This isn't the way to do inclusive shades.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
The 32 Best Hair Growth Shampoos of 2024, According to Experts
Rapunzel hair, coming right up.
By Gabrielle Ulubay Published
-
The 20 Best Hair Masks for Damaged Hair, According to Experts and Editors
Healthy strands, here we come!
By Gabrielle Ulubay Last updated
-
How Often You Should Wash Your Hair, According To Experts
Keep it fresh, my friends.
By Gabrielle Ulubay Published