The clichéd ‘beauty is only skin deep’ might dismiss beauty on a scale of character, but it does emphasise the importance placed on skin to gauge beauty. While cosmetics have had a say in accentuating facial features, toning the skin and even covering blemishes, they are not the only options to realise beauty that radiates the skin. Food or vitamins from food, apparently, is a more reliable choice.
If you believe you are what you eat, not just when it comes to your health and your weight, follow the quick guide below to give your skin a food boost that will even keep age signs at bay. Whether consumed or applied, fruits, vegetables, dairy products and even chocolates can help you in your beauty quest.
Cucumber
This unassuming vegetable has been described as a cure all for many a health concerns, most importantly weight loss and glowing skin. In addition to its hydrating enzyme-filled water and anti-inflammatory properties, cucumber also contains vitamins B and C, zinc, iron, folic acid, calcium, magnesium and potassium.
Cabbage
Many a diet plan has given cabbage a top priority owing to its fibre and the sulforaphane compound, which is also said to promote anti-ageing antioxidant activity in the body.
Chocolate
Sinful or otherwise, chocolates, the darker variety, have all the properties in the world to give you an instant high and make your skin luminous. Cocoa is said to hydrate the skin, make it firm and supple and even reduce puffiness when applied on the skin. According to dermatologists, chocolates that contain at least 70 percent cacao have maximum flavonol, which is a type of antioxidant.
Yoghurt
Keep those wrinkles at bay with yoghurt. The protein in it will make your skin firmer and also resistant to wrinkles. Dermatologists recommend a single serving everyday to get smoother complexion. Greek yoghurt is especially good for teeth.
Oatmeal
If you believe breakfast is the most important meal of the day, include oatmeal in it for a youthful look. The steel-cut variety has more vitamins and takes longer to break down, keeping the blood sugar stable. This means that the body’s level of hormone, which contributes to wrinkles, is lowered.
Pomegranate
Pomegranates have polyphenol antioxidants which fight free radicals and regulate the blood flow of the skin. This can easily infuse rosiness to your skin. Eat one pomegranate or drink a couple of glasses of pomegranate juice everyday to see the difference. You could even apply it to the skin to smooth the lines and moisturise it.
Berries
Make the most of the berry season to inject a glow in your skin. Berries are packed with anti-inflammatory agents and vitamins that are known to act as a protective shield against premature ageing. The antioxidants also help reduce the damage of free radicals, which can otherwise accelerate wrinkle formation.
Flaxseed
Flaxseeds can boost your brain, your heart, as well as your skin. The omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed also help soothe your skin if it is prone to acne or eczema. Besides, it contains fibre, which is effective in reducing bloating and promoting digestion.
This green veggie is a big source of vitamins A, C and E, which have potent anti-ageing properties that can help promote healthy new cell growth.
Papaya
Papaya is high in beta-carotene, which is said to convert to vitamin A when consumed. This means it can repair the skin and also promote brighter skin and eyes. It can also be used as a face mask to add some glow to the skin.
Sweet Potatoes
Glowing, gorgeous skin is what you get when you eat sweet potatoes, which have beta-carotene and are packed with vitamins A, C and E. These can work to improve your hair and skin and protect it from UV exposure.