Here Are The Foods You Should Be Eating To Help With Dull Skin

There's something about your skin having a natural glow that makes you feel amazing inside and out. On good skin days, it feels like anything is possible. Investing in a killer skincare routine is a lot of fun. But before you try another new serum, here are the foods you should be eating to help with dull skin. Your diet and water intake are just as important as a good moisturizer and SPH when it comes to revitalizing your skin.

When your skin is looking dull, it's easy to seek out a quick fix. However, by investing time in what you put in your body you may see improvements outwardly. Research conducted by the British Dietetic Association found that while healthy and supple skin is partially dictated by our genes, vitamin intake, a varied diet, hydration, and alcohol consumption all play a part in how your skin looks. Your skincare may promise you a radiant glow but you might be able to get that naturally.

So if you want to get serious about combating dullness, here are some of the foods and vitamins to look out for. You don't need to see a dermatologist to invest in your skincare. However, some of your kitchen favorites may be sabotaging your glow.

The way you care for your skin really depends on whether it's dry, oily, or a combination. If you're looking to change your diet in order to tackle dullness, a dermatologist told Real Simple that your best option is to start getting your five-a-day. "When it comes to skin, think antioxidants, which are found in colorful fruits and vegetables, because they help fight against free radicals," said dermatologist Adarsh Vijay Mudgil.

Scientific Reports found that carotenoids, which are the antioxidants found in colorful fruit and vegetables, can reduce skin sensitivity. Similarly, Medline Plus writes that vitamin C found in oranges, mangos, and strawberries are great for collagen production making your skin look fresh. The British Dietetic Association also pointed to foods with vitamins A, B2, B3, B6, D, E, zinc, and selenium as being key for skin health. 

Speaking to Allure, nutritionist Paula Simpson explained the positive impact of a varied diet. "A diet focused on high-quality lean proteins, fiber, healthy oils, raw fruits and vegetables, and spices is best for supporting healthy skin," she said. "These foods tend to contain high-quality amino acids — the building blocks for firm skin — plus anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich ingredients that promote optimal skin metabolism and defense against environmental stressors."

Oily fish, nuts, and lean meats like chicken not only encourage your skin to look plump and healthy but also promote hydration.

Healthline lists fatty fish, avocados, eggs, sweet potatoes, and fresh fruit and vegetables as some of the greatest foods for your skin. You could definitely rustle up a good brunch with those products. However, one of the main causes of dullness is dehydration. Mayo Clinic reported that the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine said that 11.5 cups of fluid a day is good for women and 15.5 for men. This may seem daunting, but some foods like cucumber, tomato, spinach, watermelon, apples, and berries have high water content and count towards your daily intake.

BBC Good Food outlines that, while lean proteins and vegetables will boost your skin, sugar and alcohol damage collagen production making your skin look duller. You don't need to totally cut out sweet treats and wine if that feels like that's a step too far for you. However, cutting down may improve the look of your skin.