Portsmouth residents struggling with dehydrated skin informed of foods that could help combat dryness
An expert has shared which foods can help with skin dryness, as interest hits an all-time high amid the changing weather.
An analysis of Google Trends search data has revealed searches for "how to help dry skin" have surged 533% this year, hitting a global record high, indicating more and more people are struggling with dehydrated skin.
Prioritising a healthy diet is crucial for maintaining healthy, radiant skin year-round, and experts from the Derma Laser Center of New Jersey share what foods can help boost skin health and combat dryness.
Berries: One of the best ways to protect, rejuvenate and hydrate skin is through consuming antioxidants. Berries, especially blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries, contain high concentrations of these vital nutrients, which can help combat dehydration and inflammation and even boost collagen production, promoting a more plump, revitalised appearance.
Oily fish: Foods rich in healthy fats are key to healthy-looking skin, strengthening its barrier and keeping it hydrated. Oily fish, such as salmon, can be especially effective with their Omega-3 content, helping the skin barrier to lock in moisture. For a plant-based alternative, the high levels of monounsaturated, healthy fats in avocado can help promote skin hydration.
Leafy greens: Leafy greens help improve skin health thanks to their antioxidant content, helping to battle oxidative stress, which can otherwise take its toll on skin, weakening the skin barrier and breaking down collagen.
Carrots: Packed with vitamin A, carrots support skin health by aiding in cell turnover and preventing dryness. Carrots are also high in beta-carotene, which can help reduce skin sensitivity to UV rays. However, it is important to note that it does not replace the need for suncream or SPF skincare, but it can help support partial protection alongside SPF.
Tomatoes: Tomatoes are packed full of essential vitamins like vitamins C and A. They also contain lycopene, which is an antioxidant that may contribute to improved skin resilience against UV damage. As with carrots, this does not replace the need for daily SPF, which remains vital.
Water-rich foods: While drinking water is essential for staying hydrated, consuming water-rich foods provides additional benefits. Foods with high water content, such as fruits and vegetables, help hydrate while also providing essential nutrients like vitamins and antioxidants. These are vital for skin health, and eating water-rich foods and maintaining fluid intake is an effective dual-action method to hydrate skin.
Examples of foods high in water content include:
Iceberg lettuce: 96% water
Cucumber: 96% water
Celery: 95% water
Spinach: 92% water
Watermelon: 92% water
Broccoli: 92% water
Dr. Ayman El-Attar of the Derma Laser Center of New Jersey added: “Ultimately, what these foods have in common is boosting hydration, which is an absolute must, not just for overall health, but for your skin health, too.
"A lot of people may reach for expensive skincare products, but a hugely effective step would be to add these foods, such as berries or oily fish, to their weekly shop. The nutrients in these foods work from the inside out."