Why it works: These delicious little blue wonders contain more antioxidants than almost any other food does. Translation: They can give your skin extra protection against the skin-damaging free radicals that result from sun exposure, emotional stress, and even overexercising (especially running).
Serve yourself: One-half cup every day will help to prevent the cell-structure damage that can lead to loss of firmness, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Best for Firming: Kale and Spinach
Why they work: These vital veggies contain special phytonutrients, or antioxidant compounds, that help guard against damage caused by the sun. Spinach is loaded with beta-carotene and lutein, two nutrients that have been shown to improve skin elasticity, according to a study in the Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry.
Serve yourself: Every week, aim for three cups of either kale or spinach, or a combination of both, suggests Newgent.
Best for Reducing Redness: Cold-Water Fish
Why they work: Sardines, salmon, and mackerel contain omega-3 fatty acids, which strengthen skin-cell membranes, helping keep moisture in. Consuming two servings of fish a week can reduce chronic skin inflammations, such as eczema and psoriasis.
Serve yourself: No more than six 6-ounce portions a week to avoid mercury contamination.
Best for Diminishing Brown Spots: Green Tea
Why it works: This healthy brew, says Dr. Jaliman, contains catechins (one of the most effective compounds for preventing sun damage like hyperpigmentation) and polyphenols (antioxidants that combat free-radical damage and may reverse the effects of aging).
Serve yourself: At least one cup a day to see results in as little as a month.
Best for a Dewy Complexion: Watermelon
Why it works: This refreshing, sweet treat contains the ultimate antioxidant, vitamin C, plus lycopene and potassium, which regulates the balance of water and nutrients in cells.
Serve yourself: At least one to two cups a week.
Best for a Healthy Glow: Olive Oil
Why it works: The “good fats” in olive oil are highly beneficial; they contain heart-healthy omega-3s, which improve circulation, leaving skin rosy and supple.
Serve yourself: A tablespoon a day, says Newgent.
More Smooth Moves
Fine lines, dark spots, and furrowed brows also can be repaired — or prevented — with some skincare basics.
Yes! You Should…
- Wear an SPF 30 sunscreen every day, year-round.
- Apply a weekly hydrating masque.
- Eat fruits and veggies with a high water content, such as cucumber and apples.
- Wear sunglasses — even at sunset — to prevent fine lines.
- Sleep on a satin pillowcase to prevent creases.
No, Please Don’t…
- OD on at-home chemical peels (once a week is enough).
- Pick at blemishes.
- Try every latest, greatest treatment — skin likes routine.
- Take too-hot showers.
- Go out in the wind bare-faced.
