If you have dry, rough skin you may be tempted to slather it with creams and lotions. While topical treatments are important to help provide a barrier against moisture loss, you can also improve the condition of your skin by what you eat. Have you ever noticed that people who eat a healthy diet usually have better skin than those who don’t? What goes into your body plays an important role in the health of your skin as well as how rapidly your skin ages. Here are some foods you’ll want to add to your diet for rough skin.
How to eat for dry skin: Fatty fish
Fatty fish such as salmon are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Several small studies have shown that omega-3’s can improve dry, scaly skin associated with eczema. Although large scale studies haven’t been done to confirm this, many people report improvement in the texture of their skin when they add more omega-3’s to their diet.
How to eat for dry skin: Flaxseed oil
A German study published in the British Journal of Nutrition showed that flaxseed oil supplementation helped to reduce the texture and appearance of dry, rough skin. A group of test subjects were given flaxseed oil supplements for three months. At the end of the twelve week period, they showed significant improvement in skin texture with reduced roughness and skin peeling. Although you can buy raw flaxseed, flaxseed oil in the form of capsules is a better option for treatment of dry skin. They can be found at most health food stores. Talk to your doctor before starting flaxseed oil supplements. They may not be suitable for you if you have certain medical conditions.
How to eat for dry skin: Citrus fruits
The vitamin C found in citrus fruits plays an important role in maintaining the collagen structure of the skin. Collagen forms a matrix and gives your skin the firmness and texture associated with youthful, healthy skin. Instead of reaching for a rich dessert, enjoy a sweet orange instead. You’ll be doing your skin a favor.
How to eat for dry skin: Miso
The Japanese know the secret to soft, beautiful skin is the miso they eat on a daily basis. This fermented soy product has shown the ability to reduce the signs of skin aging. A small study demonstrated that women who consumed a serving of miso each day for several months showed improvement in the appearance of fine lines and skin wrinkling. The secret seems to be the genistein found in miso which helps to increase production of hyaluronic acid, an important component for firm, youthful looking skin.
How to eat for dry skin: Olive oil
Not only is olive oil a good moisturizer when applied to the skin, it also works from the inside out thanks to its antioxidant properties. Olive oil is rich in polyphenols and oleic acid which lubricate and help to reduce inflammation. If you suffer from dry, rough skin try adding one to two tablespoons to your daily diet. Choose a high quality extra virgin olive oil which will give you more health benefits.
The bottom line? Instead of spending your money on expensive skin creams that may not work, start your treatment for rough skin with a trip to the grocery store. It’s a healthier alternative.
Reference:
- British Journal of Nutrition. Published online ahead of print.
