Skincare

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citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruit and lemons, guava. Other lesser-known sources are broccoli, brussel sprouts, green leafy vegetables, red/yellow/green bell peppers, chillies, tomatoes, berries like strawberries, papaya, melon, kiwi fruit.

88.     Vitamin E – It is one of the top antioxidants for your skin to neutralise harmful free radicals in the body that cause tissue and cellular damage. The top layer of skin contains high levels of vitamin E which protects cell membranes. A strong cell membrane helps keep the skin hydrated. Vitamin E is essential for red blood cells, aids cellular respiration, guards against UV radiation damage and protects lung tissues from pollution. Vitamin E is excellent for the skin and body when consumed from natural sources such as low fat dairy products, liver, egg yolks, seafood, wholegrain products, wheat germ, fortified cereals, nuts, peanut butter, seeds, oats, vegetable oils like sunflower oil, green leafy vegetables, raw mangoes.

89.     Lycopene – This is a pigment that gives many fruits and vegetables their red colour. Studies indicate that lycopene combined with other cartenoids (like betacarotene in carrots and lutein in spinach) acts as a sunscreen and may reduce sunburn and ultraviolet ray damage to the skin. Lycopene is found in bright coloured berries, tomatoes and tomato products, plums, apricots, watermelon, beans, prunes, pink grapefruit, red wine.

90.     Minerals Selenium and Zinc – Selenium, an antioxidant mineral helps safeguard skin from sun damage and delays ageing by protecting skin quality and elasticity. Food sources of selenium include wholegrains, wheat germ, tuna, crab, Brazil nuts, almonds, green leafy vegetables, broccoli, cauliflower, garlic, onion, mushrooms. Zinc, another antioxidant and natural skin-friendly agent helps keep dull skin at bay. Zinc is found in ginger, onions, wholegrains, pecan nuts, Brazil nuts, meats, poultry and seafood. Prawns are packed with zinc, which reduces inflammation and help heal the blemishes quickly.

91.     Essential Fatty Acids (EFA) – If you have dry skin prone to inflammation and frequently dotted with white/black heads, you may be lacking in EFAs as they form skin’s natural oil barrier. EFAs are the foods that tighten and tone the skin. These are responsible for healthy cell membranes and help protect skin against sun damage. They are also anti-inflammatory and so help reduce acne and facial