Okay, let’s talk a little bit about sun damage and foods that can protect skin from sun.
You guys already know how ANAL I am about my skincare routines, and that I will pretty much do anything to prevent aging (for as long as I can, at least). So, today we’re talking about the sun, which can be one of the most damaging things for your skin. It can also age you SUPER quick!
However, no, I will not hide from the sun, as a) we don’t even get much sun over here and b) when we do, I must enjoy every drop of sunshine I can get.
So, this post isn’t to tell you that if you eat right and have a balanced diet, that you don’t need to wear sunscreen. Everyone should be wearing sunscreen at ALL times. This one by Vichy is my current fave right now. It’s an SPF of 45. I know that seems a bit extreme, but then again, I’m pretty extreme when it comes to skincare…
In the winter time, I still wear sunscreen, because even though you don’t see the sun, it’s still there, and can be pretty damaging to your skin. You can go with a lower SPF in the winter. Something between SPF 20-30. And no, don’t get a moisturizer that has SPF in it; it’s too low. Use a regular moisturizer on top of your sunscreen.
Anyway, I can go on about the importance of sunscreen, but maybe that’s another post in itself!
Let’s move onto some foods that protect skin from sun damage, because you’ll want to add these to your cart next time your go to the groceries.
5 FOODS THAT PROTECT SKIN FROM SUN:
- Berries & Stone Fruits:
Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries and cherries contain a high level of Vitamin C, which stimulates collagen production (YES!) and is great for that youthful appearance. Cherries actually contain melatonin, which protects the skin from UV radiation and repairs sunburn damage.
- Leafy Greens:
Spinach, kale, swiss chard, arugula, or anything that’s leafy and green is good for sun protection. My absolute favourite addition to my lunches/ dinners is a little green salad that consists of either kale, spinach, or arugula, avocado, any veggies I find in the fridge, feta cheese, drizzled with some EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) and some lemon. I’m drooling already! This can be a complete meal if you add some protein to it.
Broccoli is also a good choice: it’s full of sulphoraphane, an antioxidant that helps your cells protect themselves against UV radiation.
- Red & Orange Produce:
Tomatoes, papaya, guava, watermelon and red/orange bell peppers have been shown to protect the skin against sunburn and is twice as effective an antioxidant when it comes down to blocking UV light. Betacarotene is another antioxidant that has natural sunscreen properties. It’s been linked to reduced reactions to sunburns. You can find it in carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, pumpkins, mango and apricots.
Is anyone else addicted to mangos? It’s so my summer go-to fruit.
- Chocolate:
HELLLL YESS!! Only dark chocolate though. (which really is the best kind!) By intaking (moderate) amounts of dark chocolate, you are actually ingesting flavanoids, which can improve your skin’s ability against sunburns and other UV-induced issues. I mean, if this isn’t the best news ever, I don’t know what is…
- Green & Black Tea:
Where are my tea drinkers at?! I mean, the benefits of tea are just endless, we all know that. However, it’s still nice to know that every cup you intake is also protecting your skin from sun damage. Green tea, in particular can even help prevent non-melanoma skin cancer by enhancing DNA repair. Anything to prevent the C-word.
Okay, am I missing anything crucial foods that protect skin from sun? Do tell! Share below, as I’m always curious about these things.
Again, I cannot stress the importance of sunscreen, so apply that shit every morning. Your skin will thank you years from now. And if that doesn’t convince you, sunscreen also adds a nice dewy base for your make up application (if you’re into that dewy look).
Okay, I’m off to make myself an arugula salad and then a night-ish stroll. Yes, I’m 80. We already know that though.
Xx, kim
++ If you liked this post, check out my Morning Skincare Routine.
+++ Oh, and if you’re looking for the BEST Vitamin C Serum, click here.
