Top 10 Fruits and Veggies for Clear Skin

Clear skin is something we all strive towards, testing out multiple products and undergoing several treatments to achieve this goal. However, a simple factor contributing to skin health that is often overlooked is your diet. Fruits and vegetables, in particular, contain essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidant properties that contribute to healthier skin. Incorporating these foods into your diet, along with hydrating well and following a good skincare routine will significantly progress your journey to clear and radiant skin.

1. Berries

Berries are one of the healthiest foods to include in your diet. They are high in antioxidants that combat premature ageing in damaged skin cells and promote healing. Additionally, they are a natural way to boost collagen, a protein that keeps your skin smooth and plump.

2. Citrus Fruits

Oranges, lemons and grapefruits are chock full of vitamin C which is particularly helpful if you struggle with dark spots. A diet rich in Vitamin C has been shown to brighten skin, even skin complexion and protect against further damage from UV rays.

3. Tomatoes

he fruit contains an anti-ageing antioxidant that boosts collagen and combats the oxidising effects of UV rays from the sun. This antioxidant has been shown to have a stronger effect when cooked so it's best to enjoy tomatoes in comforting soups, stews and sauces.

4. Kale

Leafy greens are rich in vitamin K which improves blood circulation and coagulation. Also, greens such as kale, spinach and collard greens contain an antioxidant that has been shown to even out skin tone.

5. Avocados

In addition to being one of the trendiest foods around, Avocados provide excellent nutrients for the skin. Their potent amounts of healthy fats help the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins and are anti-inflammatory which helps keep skin moisturized and supple.

6. Papaya

This fruit contains large amounts of the enzyme chymopapain which has been shown to reduce inflammation, which is often the cause of many skin problems. Additionally, papaya contains the enzyme papain which has been used as an acne treatment.

7. Watermelon

Watermelons are an antioxidant-packed fruit that is also 92% water so eating them is a great way to stay hydrated for soft, dewy skin.

8. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes contain a powerhouse nutrient: vitamin A. Vitamin A restores damaged collagen, reduces the overproduction of skin cells and can even reduce the development of skin cancer cells.

9. Red Grapes

Red grapes contain resveratrol, an antioxidant that may slow the production of free radicals which damage the skin and cause visible ageing.

10. Broccoli

Broccoli is an excellent source of a range of essential vitamins and minerals It also contains lutein that has been shown to prevent your skin from becoming dry and wrinkled.

It is equally important to note that certain food sensitivities may actually be the underlying causes of breakouts, excess oil production or other skin issues. Foods that are commonly associated with breakouts are dairy, refined sugar and an excess of fatty foods. However, food sensitivities differ greatly between individuals therefore it is recommended that you keep a food diary that tracks what you eat and simultaneously track how your skin responds to find patterns. This is very straightforward to do with the help of the Clear app when you can keep track of skin progress through notes and photos within the app.

Written by Raniyah Basheer, 30-07-2021