6 Foods that Prevent Dry Skin

You can have dry and dull skin any time of the year, not just winter. Other than wind and dry air, several factors contribute to dull and dry skin including age, gender and eating habits.

While lotions may fix the problem temporarily, changing your diet is a much more effective solution for addressing dry skin. These are the best hydrating foods you should eat to prevent dry skin.

1. WALNUTS

Walnuts are an excellent source of omega 3 fatty acids, vitamin E and linoleic acid. These nutrients are vital for keeping your skin moist and firm. Omega 3s, for instance, have been shown to prevent dry skin and fight psoriasis, a condition that makes your skin scaly and itchy.

Additionally, linoleic acid reduces dryness and strengthens your skin. In fact, applying linoleic acid topically has been shown to keep the skin moist and reduce acne breakouts. 

2. SWEET POTATOES

Eating sweet potatoes will tremendously improve your skin health. They offer plenty of beta-carotene, a potent antioxidant, which your body converts into vitamin A.

Vitamin A hydrates your skin by stimulating cells that keep your skin healthy and firm. In fact, half a cup of sweet potatoes can offer up to four times the vitamin A you need in a day.

3. RED BELL PEPPERS

If you read this article, you know that red bell peppers offer more vitamin C than any other food. You may also know that increasing your vitamin C intake helps produce radiant and firm skin.

Vitamin C keeps your skin healthy by promoting collagen production. Red bell peppers are also loaded with vitamin A. One cup can offer your body all the vitamin A it needs in a day.

4. AVOCADOS

Your skin may be dry and dull because your diet lacks in healthy fats. Avocados can fix the problem, because they offer plenty of healthy fats that can keep your skin moist.

According to this study, increased intake of the type of fats found in avocados boosts skin elasticity.

5. CUCUMBERS

Have you ever wondered why layering cucumbers around your eyes treats eye puffiness? They contain plenty of vitamin C and antioxidants, which treat inflamed skin.

Cucumbers will keep your skin moist thanks to their high water content. Add them to salads or drop them in a glass of water.

6. FATTY FISH (OR PLANT-BASED SOURCES OF OMEGA 3S)

Frankly, omega 3s offer many amazing skin-protecting benefits. For one, they reduce inflammation, which can cause acne. They also make your skin less sensitive to the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Fatty fish is an excellent source of omega 3s, which keep your skin strong and moist. In fact, research shows that omega 3 fatty acid deficiency causes skin dryness. Go for wild-caught fatty fish such as salmon, herring, and mackerel.

Your diet has a big impact on your skin; increase your intake of these foods to keep your skin smooth and moisturized.