We tend to think that taking care of the skin from the outside is enough. Though using sunscreen when going outdoors, applying lotion during the cold weather and keeping your skin moisturised on a daily basis is very important, there is also a need to keep your skin healthy for maximum protection. Research has concluded that there are some foods that can protect your skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun as well as keeping it smooth and fresh. Though there is no excuse to stop using sunscreen, you can keep your skin healthy and protected at a cellular level by including some essential foods in your daily diet intake.

Tomatoes

In tomatoes lycopene, a carotenoid and natural pigment, is found which can help in keeping your skin smooth and healthy. People who have a higher skin concentration of lycopene tend to have smoother skin and it may also protect their skin from getting sunburned. Include tomatoes in your daily meals to keep your skin hydrated and protected.

Strawberries

Strawberries are rich in vitamin C which is why it can prevent your skin from going dry, and help it stay fresh and healthy. One cup of strawberries holds about 150 percent of the daily recommended amount of vitamin C for your body. Include a cup of strawberries in your daily diet intake and see the difference in your skin for yourself.

Omega-3 Rich Fish

Foods that are rich in omega-3 can help in keeping your skin young and also help you prevent skin cancer. This is because omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory powers which can help in preventing tumour growth. Tuna, salmon and sardines are all rich in omega-3 and can do wonders for your skin along with keeping your heart and eyes healthy too! This is why you should try to include servings of fatty fish in your diet at least every week.

Coffee

Coffee has been determined to lower the risk of skin cancer developing, as having one cup of coffee can reduce the risk of nonmelanoma skin cancer by 10%. So if you have a cup of caffeinated coffee every day, it can prove to be beneficial for your skin.

Dark Chocolate

If you wanted an excuse to add chocolate to your diet, you have one now! There are flavonoids found in dark chocolate that can help in increasing the saturation of oxygen, boosting blood flow and keeping your skin hydrated. The flavonoids may also improve the ability of skin to protect itself from skin damage and skin burns. Include a bit of dark chocolate in your diet to improve your skin condition.

Green And Leafy Vegetables

Leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce and Swiss chard are full of antioxidants such as carotenoids, lutein and polyphenols, which can provide protection to your skin and reduce the chances of sun damage. A study also found that in some cases such leafy green vegetables helped in preventing the reappearance of skin cancer so it is a good idea to include them in your meals for a healthy and well-balanced diet.