Ask the Experts

A: Yes! You can certainly get your skin in better condition without the use of expensive creams. Good skin is created from the inside out, so the right diet and supplements will eventually give you the results you’re looking for.

Essential fatty acids (EFAs) such as omega-3s (which people most often lack) and omega-6s have to be obtained from foods that you eat. Your body can make skin-boosting properties from other sources of fats and nutrients, but it can’t produce EFAs.

Walnuts, flaxseeds, leafy green vegetables, and fish are high in omega-3s; vegetable oils are high in omega-6s. Both improve the health and appearance of your skin and keep it from being dry and looking dull. If you think you’re not getting enough EFAs in your diet, flaxseed oil or omega-3 fish oil supplements are completely acceptable sources, too.

It’s also a good idea to up your antioxidant intake as well. Daily exposure to stress, chemicals, and the sun destroys skin’s precious collagen supply by bombarding it with electrochemically unbalanced molecules, more commonly known as free radicals. Antioxidants block the destruction and slow the damage.

You can easily get antioxidants from your diet. Carrots, oranges, and apricots are excellent sources, as are spinach and kale. Peas, beans and lentils, salmon and mackerel, and nuts are also great. And don’t forget green tea! Drinking at least two antioxidant-rich cups a day is one of the best ways to protect your skin. If you don’t care for the taste, supplements can work just as well!