Outside In

If you’re one of those guys (and let’s be honest, a lot of us) who struggles with the exhaustive 27-step skincare regimens recommended by celebrities and beauty gurus, don’t sweat it. You don’t have to endure a lifetime of lackluster skin. It turns out that your diet plays a crucial role in your skin’s health, just as much as the products you apply topically.

“The cleaner I eat, the better my skin looks,” says Leo Venus, a plant-based vlogger and fitness influencer. While he emphasizes the importance of applying aloe vera and protecting his skin from sun exposure, he also recognizes that the connection between gut health and skin quality is paramount.

“Consume as many foods that are beneficial for the body, and since your skin is part of that body, it will thrive with the right nutrition!” he advises.

Continue reading to discover how to enhance your skin from the inside out.

Incorporate skin-friendly foods

If you follow a plant-based diet, you’re already on the right track. Research has linked dairy consumption to acne, likely due to certain hormones in milk. Cutting out skim milk could be a significant benefit for your skin. Additionally, incorporating more fruits and vegetables can further enhance your glow.

“Growing up, I ate a lot of carrots at my mom’s suggestion, and I later learned that they’re packed with vitamin A, which is fantastic for the skin. Now, I still stick to carrots,” shares Milain David, founder of Eben Naturals, a Miami-based skincare brand focused on products for people of color.

Other skin-benefitting foods include those rich in vitamin C, such as sweet potatoes and citrus fruits, which help maintain collagen levels (crucial for youthful skin), and omega-3 fatty acids found in walnuts and flax seeds that keep your skin hydrated.

Consider probiotics

As you fill your plate with sweet potatoes and walnuts, think about adding probiotics to your daily diet. “Probiotics support balanced gut microbiota,” says Dr. Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, medical director of Mudgil Dermatology. “Imbalances in our gut flora can lead to a heightened inflammatory state, which negatively affects the skin.”

Stay hydrated

The frequently repeated advice of “hydration, hydration, hydration” holds true because it genuinely impacts skin health. “Proper hydration slows down the aging process by helping the skin maintain its elasticity and is vital for optimal cellular function,” explains Mudgil.

Remember to drink plenty of water to hydrate from the inside, but also ensure your skin gets moisture from external sources. David recommends applying vitamin E while showering and following up with aloe vera straight from the plant for an additional moisture boost.

Get moving

With your nutrition handled and your water intake stepped up, it’s time to hit the gym. “When you work out, blood flow to the skin increases significantly, allowing nutrients to reach the skin cells more effectively,” Mudgil explains. Furthermore, research indicates that regular exercise can even alter your skin’s structure, making it look noticeably younger—especially if your skin hasn’t been subjected to sun damage.

After your workout, indulge in a steam session, which David believes is beneficial for detoxification—and of course, relaxation!