5 holiday foods that’ll make your skin merry and bright — and boost your health

While the holidays are known for sweet treats, many festive foods are actually packed with nutrients that can help to rejuvenate your skin from the inside out. Here are five holiday favorites that can help your skin look merry, bright and healthy this season. —

Cranberries

Cranberries are rich in polyphenols and vitamin C, both of which help to fight oxidative stress. If left unchecked, oxidative stress can break down collagen over time and accelerate signs of aging. Cranberries also have anti-inflammatory properties that can calm redness, as well as natural salicylic acid that can help to control acne.

Pumpkin

Pumpkin contains high concentrations of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. Vitamin A plays a key role in increasing both cell turnover and collagen production for more youthful-looking skin. Pumpkin and pumpkin seeds are also high in zinc and vitamin E, which promote wound healing and help to maintain a healthy skin barrier and hydration.

Ginger

Ginger contains powerful compounds called gingerols, which have been shown to reduce inflammation. If left unmanaged, chronic inflammation can cause many common skin problems, including accelerated aging, redness, flaking and more. Ginger also improves circulation and provides antioxidant support, enhancing oxygen and nutrient delivery to skin cells while neutralizing free radicals that contribute to dullness and aging.

Garlic

Garlic contains a sulfur compound called allicin, which has strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Thus, the allicin in garlic can help to control breakouts by getting rid of acne-causing bacteria. Garlic also contains high levels of selenium, which also helps to lower inflammation and has antioxidant benefits.

Dark Chocolate

Not all sweets are bad for your skin! Dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa contains a healthy dose of flavonoids, a type of antioxidant found in plants like the cacao tree. Research shows that these compounds can improve skin hydration, reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress.

Bottom line

You can feel good about snagging seconds of these holiday favorites at the dinner table! While no single ingredient can replace a consistent skin care routine, adding more antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds and a variety of vitamins and minerals to your plate can help your complexion stay hydrated, smooth and bright throughout the season.

I am now seeing patients at Body and Beauty in Palm Beach and will begin in Bay Harbor, FL in April. Questions/comments? Come ask me on reddit r/skintypesolutions