Are you prone to dry skin? If you think your diet has nothing to do with it, your face may beg to differ.
The Suspects: Alcohol, Coffee, Poor Diet
In the short term, alcohol can cause dehydration, which can cause dry skin.
“For women, the recommendation is no more than two standard drinks a day on average,” says dermatologist Ann-Maree Kurzydlo, who recommends limiting consumption and alternating alcoholic drinks with water. “One or two alcohol-free days should be had per week.”
Caffeine is a diuretic and can also lead to dehydration of the skin – so steer clear of energy drinks as well as tea and coffee.
Meanwhile, dietitian Dr Joanna McMillan says diet can also play havoc with skin.
“A lack of fats in the diet can lead to dry skin, whereas good fats such as oily fish, avocado and olive oil deliver fat-soluble nutrients, are anti-inflammatory and promote skin health,” she says.
“Certain nutrients are important for the skin including vitamins A, C, E and many antioxidants. A diet rich in plant foods – veg, fruit, nuts, seeds, legumes and wholegrains – boosts intake of these factors.”
Discover more way to eat your way to healthy skin.