Your skin is a window into your overall health.  In other words, what happens on the skin’s surface such as acne, premature aging, eczema, and dry patches is most often a symptom of what is happening inside your body. Overall inflammation, hormonal imbalances, age, nutritional deficiencies, and allergies can affect the health of your skin.

The diet I have seen work best clinically has been one rich in antioxidants and low in inflammatory type foods.  Think salmon, flax seeds, walnuts, antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits like broccoli and berries. Hydration is also vital in maintaining healthy and vibrant skin.  Fact: your skin cells don’t function optimally without sufficient hydration.

Supplements? While no one loves popping pills, these three supplements can help keep your skin clear. Number one is a good probiotic, think happy tummy equals happy skin. For probiotic recommendations talk to your nutritionist or physician. A good probiotic is one that contains multiple strains and more than 5 billion CFU’s.

The second supplement is a quality fish oil or omega 3 oil.  Be sure the fish oil comes from a clean source and has been adequately tested for pollutants. This is one supplement I would not skimp on cost with. Omega 3 acids are anti-inflammatory and strengthen the skin’s barrier making it appear hydrated and prevents wrinkling. I typically recommend 1-4 grams per day depending on the patient. Lower doses are recommended for those on blood thinners.

Finally, an anti-inflammatory supplement such as turmeric or Boswellia can be especially helpful for conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.

Also, get your Z’s! Poor sleep has been shown to shorten telomeres (the ends of your DNA). Research shows that the longer your telomeres the longer you maintain your youthful appearance. Plus you make most of your human growth hormone while you sleep, this hormone is linked to collagen production and keeps the skin plump, preventing wrinkling.

For more information regarding skincare and anti-aging medicine contact Dr. Alison.

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