You can’t deny that there’s real beauty in those Winter wonderland days, where everything is covered in a dusting of white, fluffy snow and the silence is calm and serene.
Of course the coldest, most beautiful days are often the ones most brutal for our skin and dry skin is something no one wants to deal with.
Fortunately, there are some key nutrients, found in some of our favourite foods and vitamin supplements that can help to hydrate your skin from the inside out, balance your delicate pH levels and strengthen your skin’s barrier function.
Keep reading to find out which nutrients you can add into your life today for happy, hydrated skin all season long!
Vitamin C
We all know that vitamin C has excellent anti-aging benefits, because its antioxidant properties fight aging free radicals while it helps to build collagen for firmer, plumper skin.
What you may not know though, is that Vitamin C can help to prevent transepidermal water loss through the pores, making it your new best friend this chilly season!
Fill up on Vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, bell peppers and leafy greens.
Vitamin E
If you want smooth, dewy skin then you need Vitamin E in your life!
Vitamin E helps to retain lipids in skin cells and keep them plump, because it’s a primary component of skin cell walls.
Avocados are our go to when we need a Vitamin E boost, but you can also find it in nuts, plant oils and seeds. Try sprucing up your oatmeal by topping it with a blend of hemp, pumpkin and sunflower seeds.
Essential fatty acids
Essential fatty acids are necessary if you want clear, healthy, hydrated and glowing skin and I’m sure we can agree we all want that!
EFAs help to fight inflammation in the skin and keep it beautifully hydrated and radiant. Get your fill by indulging in fatty fish like salmon, chia seeds, walnuts and oils like olive, grape seed, flaxseed and hemp seed.
This salmon recipe is absolutely delicious and a real treat for both your skin and your health!
Zinc
Many of us are deficient in this important mineral, but it’s essential for healthy skin.
Many people know of zinc as the mineral that helps to reduce blemishes, and while it is excellent for problem skin, it’s just as excellent for dry skin. Zinc helps to control inflammatory reactions in the skin, helping to soothe itchy, dry skin.
Find it in abundance in shellfish, beans, lean beef and turkey.
Probiotics
Probiotics help to keep your tummy calm and happy, but did you know that your gut health is directly linked to your skin?
Probiotics help to destroy toxins in the gut that could manifest as skin irritations and breakouts, something you don’t want to deal with in the cold when every skin flare up seems so much worse than it does in the warmer season.
Treat your gut to foods and drinks like Kombucha, kefir, yogurt, sauerkraut and kimchi at least a few times a week.
These 5 vitamins and nutrients will ensure your skin stays soothed, calm and hydrated throughout winter!
