Essential Foods for Healthy Winter Skin!

Winter is coming, and I have some winter skin beauty tips to share with you from Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O. Osteopathic Physician board certified in family medicine, and anti-aging medicine and proclaimed as the "The Stem Cell Guru" by the New York Daily News.

As the temperature drops, skin loses its natural moisture when faced with the cold, dry air found in winter climates. While the products you use for the transitioning weather conditions are helpful, there are natural and less expensive alternatives that will have your skin thriving without breaking the bank.  

1.     Olive Oil helps to provide your skin with healthy, unsaturated fats with anti-aging benefits. It is rich in vitamin E, and can be used to treat and prevent dry skin naturally.

2.     Avocado contains fats which help to lubricate the skin and protect it from damage, and also promote clear, youthful skin. Avocados also contain anti-aging foods properties.

3.     Oatmeal contains a large number of antioxidants, along with vitamins and minerals that improve skin health. The fibers in oatmeal also help slough away dead skin and prevent redness when applied topically.

4.     Sweet Potatoes are a great source of vitamin A, which help to lock in moisture, give your skin a healthy glow and protect it from damage.

5.     Carrots contain the carotenoids beta carotene and lycopene—both of which help shield your skin against UV damage.

6.     Grapefruit contains carotenoid, which will make your skin smooth. When buying grapefruit, opt for one with a red-pinkish hue because these colors are from lycopene and it means the fruits are loaded with carotenoids. People who have higher concentration of lycopene have smoother skin.

7.     Broccoli contains vitamin C which synthesizes collagen, a protein that keeps the skin firm helping to protect from wrinkles.

8.     Spinach and dark, leafy greens like kale are filled with iron, omega-4 fatty acids and vitamins A, B and E, which protect skin and improve your immune system. The phytochemicals and folates also help hydrate skin and keep it healthy.

9.     Coconut Oil is rich in fats and helps provide lubrication and also help prevent acne thanks to their antibacterial and anti-fungal properties.

And a couple tips from me....

Mix a little oatmeal with some warm water until it forms a paste and then spread all over your face avoiding your eyes. Leave on until it starts to dry and then rinse off with warm water. It's a great exfoliator that will leave your skin feeling super smooth!

Coconut oil is great for chapped winter lips. Rub some on and your lips will be kissably smooth in no time!