Did you know there are foods and supplements you can consume that will protect your skin from the inside out? Whether you’re a sun worshiper or the sun loves your fair skin a little too much, not only can you use topical sunblocks and barriers, but you can boost your sun care regimen with supplements!
The Online Drugstore carries a host of online health products, including supplements that support your skin, so you can rest assured that you’ll find everything you need, here! If we’ve piqued your interest about skin care from the inside out, follow along and learn about these amazing nutrients!
Sun Care Beyond Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a lovely foundation to any sun care routine as it blocks the harmful UVA and UVB rays from the sun. Even when sunscreen is applied properly and as directed, it doesn’t block all the free radicals and environmental contaminants that are often associated with sun exposure. To better protect your skin, try combatting sun care from the inside out!
Lycopene: Think Tomatoes
Lycopene is a carotenoid, rich in its antioxidant capabilities. If you’re prone to burning, research has found that it may actually protect your skin from sunburns! Numerous studies looked at which nutrients could help prevent sunburn including vitamin E, vitamin C, and beta-carotene, but the one that stood apart was lycopene. It never hurts to take lycopene preemptively or as a daily supplement, and you can also take it before high periods of sun exposure.
Astaxanthin: Think Salmon
Astaxanthin is a carotenoid that is produced by a microalgae. When its water supply is diminished, it forces the algae to create a barrier to protect it from the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. This shield is also how it protects us! This nutrient is what gives salmon and flamingos their pink color, because both consume this algae. Astaxanthin is a wonderful internal sunscreen and you get the most support when you take it on a regular basis.
Green Tea
Green tea is high in polyphenols, great for reducing inflammation brought on by the sun — because a sunburn is inflammation. Not only will it slow the inflammation, it has protective powers for your cells and shields them from the external damage.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Think Walnuts and Salmon
Omega-3’s are wonderful are beneficial for your overall skin health and are great for combatting sun damage. The EPA found in omega-3 block the release of the compounds that reduce the collagen in your skin after you’ve been exposed.
Cocoa Flavonoids: Think Dark Chocolate
Chocolate lovers rejoice, the flavonoids found in chocolate can act as a mellow sunscreen. These compounds work to combat UVB exposure. The most important takeaway: you can’t eat milk chocolate. The chocolate you consume has to be at least 70 percent cocoa content.
If you’re looking for a sun care arsenal that goes beyond just sunscreen, try taking supplements (or eating foods that contain them) to support your skin from the inside out!
