Expert Reveals The Foods That Can Keep Sun Damage and Wrinkles at Bay

Ever heard of an SPF diet? We know sunscreen is irreplaceable, but you can enhance your sun protection even further with what you decide to put in your food shopping basket. Read on to learn about the foods thought to give you an inner UV defence boost, according to skin expert Kimberley Medd, Head of Clinic, Face The Future. 

"Protecting your skin from UV radiation should be an obligatory part of your daily routine, whether the sun is shining or not. It's just a complete no-brainer! The first and most important way to protect your skin from UV damage is to use sunscreen with a high broad spectrum factor. You should be applying a face SPF cream every morning for the rest of your life and on your body when you are more exposed to the sun. There are, however, other ways you can help protect your skin from the sun. Although less effective than sunscreen, certain foods can help to boost your protection alongside your daily SPF. These foods will not fully protect you from the sun, they will just enhance your protection and help repair your skin if you do experience skin damage from the sun.  

Unsurprisingly, most sun protection foods derive from sun-soaked tropical and Mediterranean regions but they're super accessible to pick up at your local market or during your weekly food shop.  

1. Vitamin C  

This potent antioxidant has the ability to combat free radicals whilst also reducing the effects of sunburn. Studies have also proven that a Vitamin C-rich diet can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and soothe dry, irritated skin. Rejuvenated's Collagen Shots contain a dose of Vitamin C if you're struggling to fit this powerful antioxidant into your food.  

Add these foods into your diet: 

• Oranges and lemons 
• Strawberries 
• Kiwis 
• Bell Peppers 
• Green leafy vegetables 

2. Vitamin E  

This soluble antioxidant helps to protect the fatty membranes of our cells from damage caused by UV radiation. Exposing our skin to the sun for too long causes a loss of Vitamin E, meaning that your skin is more vulnerable to damage. By eating foods high in Vitamin E, you can replenish your levels and help to strengthen your immune system and keep your skin super healthy in the process.  

Add these foods into your diet: 

• Avocado 
• Almonds 
• Sunflower Seeds 
• Spinach 
• Brocolli 

3. Beta Carotene  

Also known as carotenoid, beta carotene gives certain foods their red, orange and yellow colours. Foods with beta carotene are incredibly beneficial to add to your diet this time of year, as they can help to protect your skin from sunburn. Studies have shown that beta carotene helps to avoid skin redness and irritation caused by sun exposure. Rejuvenated's H3O Night Repair is formulated with astaxanthin, the most potent carotenoid, to help repair and prevent further oxidative damage. 

Add these foods into your diet: 

• Carrots 
• Chilli Peppers 
• Red and yellow peppers 
• Sweet potato  

4. Omega 3  

Omega 3 is anti-inflammatory and helps to protect you and your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. It is common for us to be deficient of Omega 3, so an oral supplement will most definitely support your levels for a boost. In particular, salmon is packed with Omega 3 and astaxanthin (the most powerful carotenoid) to both protect your skin's cells from the sun and reduce inflammation sometimes caused by sunburn.  

Add these foods into your diet: 

• Salmon 
• Krill oil or Vegan Algae oil  
• Nuts and seeds 

5. Pre & Probiotics  

Supporting your gut as well as your skin, pre and probiotics boast multiple nutritional benefits and help to repair your skin after sun exposure. Scientists have been studying probiotics to attempt a formulation that will fully prevent your skin from the damaging effect UV radiation. Rejuvenated's Immune Complex is fused with a complex blend of pre and probiotics to support your gut and your body's natural defence system.  

Add these foods into your diet: 

• Kimchi 
• Kombucha 
• Miso 
• Sauerkraut"