Problematic skin can be a real bitch. And with the ridiculous number of beauty products on the market, crafting a skincare routine has become a freaking nightmare. The whole thing is overwhelming and expensive.
Naturally, the next step would be to do a tedious and extensive amount of research using my good friend google. The results….
“Cut out dairy!”
“Drink more water!”
“Stop using so many products!”
“Use more products!”
“Try sheet masks!”
“Korean Skincare!”
“Keep makeup wipes by your bed!”
“Makeup wipes cause breakouts!”
Yeah, the results were unrealistic and at times conflicting. I was already running to the ladies room all day long due to the amount of water I was chugging.
Although the myriad of products were still annoying, the dietary concerns really caught my attention. It makes sense, right? We are what we eat. So, I thought I’d research which foods actually made a difference. If you could really get glowing skin from chomping on spinach, wouldn’t more people be doing it? Are more people doing it and I’m just not noticing? I suddenly feel the need to hop in the car, drive to the nearest Mustard Seed or Whole Foods, and inspect people’s complexions. That’s normal, right?
Anyway, lets talk about leafy, leafy greens and how they can give us all that Instagram glow. Greens contain the following beauty boosters:
- Vitamin A – reduces the amount of sebum (oils that contribute to breakouts) the skin creates
- Vitamin C – helps boost the skins natural collagen production
- Vitamin E – protects against free radicals
- Folate – helps produce and maintain new cells
- Beta Carotene – an antioxidant that helps to renew and repair the skin
- Phytochemicals – anti-aging chlorophyll helps prevent damage caused by free radicals
- Lutein – an antioxidant that boosts hydration, improves elasticity, and protects against sun damage
Here a few recipes that incorporate dark leafy greens that are simple, healthy, and delicious.
Strawberry Peach Green Smoothie
Enjoy!
xo Ali Taylor
