As the colder months roll in, many of us notice our skin starting to feel dry, tight, or dull. Central heating, biting winds, and low humidity can leave even the most careful skincare routines struggling to maintain a glow.
Health and skincare expert Rhysa Phommachanh, of Landys Chemist, highlights a growing trend – using nutrient-rich foods to support healthy skin during winter.
She explains that foods high in vitamin C, antioxidants, and healthy fats help the body produce collagen, retain moisture, and protect against inflammation, all of which contribute to a natural, radiant complexion during the colder months.
Supplements, too, play a role. Vitamin D can reduce inflammation while vitamin C supports collagen production and prevents dehydration. But combining these nutrients with the right winter foods can make a real difference.
Experts recommend five key foods to include in your daily diet to keep skin healthy and glowing through winter.
A small but mighty fruit packed with vitamin C. This vitamin is essential for collagen production, helping to maintain skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In winter, when cold air and indoor heating leave skin feeling tight, kiwis can give an extra boost to your body’s natural support system.
Rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A – also known as retinol. Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining smooth, healthy skin, as it supports cell turnover and helps counteract the dullness and flakiness winter can bring.
Another winter must-have. Packed with antioxidants like anthocyanins, they help protect skin cells from oxidative stress caused by pollution, UV exposure, and indoor heating. This protection reduces inflammation and supports a brighter complexion, countering the redness and irritation that the winter months often bring.
Avocados and broccoli
Avocados are rich in healthy fats and vitamin E, which help lock in moisture and strengthen the skin barrier. This can prevent dryness and maintain elasticity, keeping skin soft and supple even when the air is harsh and dry.
Broccoli, meanwhile, provides vitamin C, vitamin K, and sulforaphane, all of which reduce inflammation, protect against environmental damage, and support collagen production.
Of course, food is only part of the equation. Winter introduces additional challenges for your skin that require gentle, targeted care. Staying hydrated is crucial, as cold air, central heating, and low humidity all make it harder for skin to retain moisture.
Experts recommend drinking plenty of water and considering a nutrient-rich diet to complement external care, as well as keeping an eye on shower temperature and frequency of exfoliation – both of which shouldn’t be high.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
