Look woman, we all know that no amount of product can save your skin after you’ve abused it. Lack of sleep? Yeah, good luck with that under-eye cream. A few too many glasses of wine? Your moisturizer can’t pull you out of that mess. Stressed and angry? Those 11s between your eyes won’t be fixed by your gua sha. Despite what the multi-billion dollar industry claims, skincare is largely an inside job. So now that we’re on the same page, you’re only a few steps away from healthy glowing skin with these natural skincare routine tips shared with me by Dr. Dasha Leneva on a recent episode of What She Said.
Embrace a Healthy Lifestyle for Radiant Skin
First things first, let’s talk about the basics. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, daily sunscreen, and stress reduction are all crucial for maintaining healthy glowing skin. Exercise stimulates circulation and helps detoxify the skin through sweat, enhancing its health and radiance. Consistent sleep ensures your skin has time to repair and regenerate, while daily sunscreen protects against harmful UV rays, even on cloudy days. Reducing stress is also vital, as stress can lead to breakouts and premature aging…go ahead ask me how I know this to be true. Sigh. While you may think this sounds too familiar, like you’ve heard it all before, it’s because you have silly. So stop ignoring this advice. Incorporating these habits into your routine lays a solid foundation for any skincare regimen. Now let’s get to what you’re putting in the tank, because this is where the real magic happens.
The Superstars
Certain ingredients and practices have a particularly powerful impact on your skin’s health. Here are the superstars you should incorporate into your routine:
- Vitamin C: Brightens complexion and boosts collagen production.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Hydrates and plumps the skin, keeping it youthful.
- Collagen: Supports skin elasticity and firmness.
- Ceramides: Strengthen the skin barrier and retain moisture.
- Retinol (Vitamin A): Stimulates cell turnover, reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
- Argan Oil: Nourishes and hydrates the skin, rich in essential fatty acids.
- Rosehip Oil: Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, it rejuvenates the skin.
- Sea Buckthorn Oil: Promotes skin hydration and healing.
By integrating these superstars into your natural skincare routine, you can enhance your skin’s health and appearance significantly.
Nourish Your Skin with Food
Finding these beneficial ingredients in the foods you eat is not only possible but also incredibly effective. Here’s how you can nourish your skin from the inside out:
- Vitamin C: Load up on citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and lemons, as well as strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli. These foods help brighten your complexion and boost collagen production.
- Hyaluronic Acid: While not directly found in foods, you can boost your body’s production by consuming root vegetables like sweet potatoes and jicama, which are rich in magnesium and potassium.
- Collagen: Bone broth is an excellent source of collagen. You can also support your body’s collagen production by eating foods high in vitamin C and amino acids, such as berries, leafy greens, and fish.
- Ceramides: Found in foods like brown rice, wheat germ, and sweet potatoes, ceramides help strengthen the skin barrier and retain moisture.
- Retinol (Vitamin A): Carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens are rich in beta-carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A to promote cell turnover and reduce wrinkles.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as flaxseeds and walnuts, provide essential omega-3s that keep your skin supple and hydrated.
By incorporating these foods into your diet, you can naturally support your skin’s health and enhance the effectiveness of your external skincare routine.
How Supplements Can Help Support Healthy Skin Goals
The above sounds so simple, doesn’t it? Just draw yourself up a fully balanced meal plan, ensuring you hit all these dietary goals every day, and you’ll be a walking fountain of youth. The reality, though, is that in our modern society, this is largely impossible for those of us without personal chefs. I don’t know about you, but some days balance for me looks a lot like popcorn for dinner washed down with a nice Pinot. We can only do what we can do, which is where supplements come in. When we can’t hit all the high notes daily, these little cheerleaders can come in and do some heavy lifting.
- Vitamin C Supplements: If you’re not getting enough vitamin C from your diet, a supplement can help boost collagen production and brighten your skin.
- Hyaluronic Acid Supplements: These can help maintain skin hydration from the inside out, keeping your skin plump and youthful.
- Collagen Supplements: Available in powders, capsules, and even beverages, collagen supplements support skin elasticity and firmness.
- Omega-3 Supplements: Fish oil or flaxseed oil supplements can provide the essential fatty acids needed for supple, hydrated skin.
- Multivitamins: A good multivitamin can ensure you’re getting a broad spectrum of essential nutrients that benefit your skin, including vitamins A, C, and E, and minerals like zinc and selenium.
Supplements can be a valuable addition to your skincare regimen, especially ones that are subject to rigorous testing, providing that extra boost needed to achieve healthy, glowing skin. However, it’s important to choose high-quality supplements and consult with a healthcare professional before adding them to your routine. By combining a nutritious diet with the right supplements, you can support your skin from the inside out and achieve your skincare goals.
Go with the Glow
There are no promises that this will Benjamin Button your life here; there is no cure for aging, after all. But our actions do dictate how that aging will play out. By embracing a healthy lifestyle, fuelling your skin from within, incorporating superstar ingredients, and using supplements wisely, you can take control of your skin’s health and enjoy a radiant, youthful complexion. Consistency and patience are key, and remember, good things take time. So stick with it, and your skin will thank you!
Disclosure: This article is proudly sponsored by New Roots Herbal, a brand I wholeheartedly believe in. As a passionate advocate for holistic wellness, I am honoured to be associated with this esteemed Canadian company. Their commitment to quality and natural health solutions aligns perfectly with the values of What She Said, and I am thrilled to bring their insights and products to this community.