7 Foods that Help with Dry Skin

Dry, flaky, cracked, inflamed—winter isn't exactly a happy skin season. And if you are someone who suffers from these conditions just like me, you'll understand what I'm talking about. Thankfully, these right foods can fix your winter skin woes.

Pomegranate

Packed with polyphenols that protect against sun damage, these potent seeds boost blood flow, protect the skin and contain ellagic acid, an antioxidant shown to reduce collagen breakdown, and inflammation.

Kale and Other Greens

Green leafy vegetables including Kale provide both vitamin A (for skin renewal) and vitamin C (for boosted collagen and firmer skin). A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that those who ate a diet rich in vitamin C had fewer wrinkles and less skin dryness.

Nuts

Walnuts are packed with alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid known to strengthen skin membranes by locking in moisture and protecting skin cells. Munching on a handful of almonds cancels out flaky skin thanks to its rich vitamin E content, a supplement that is also present in tons of skincare products.

Avocado

Avocado is great for dry-skin sufferers and is considered a natural key ingredient in many face masks. Avocados contain healthy fats such as oleic acid and are rich in vitamin E which help nourish and keep the skin glowing and hydrated.

Cucumbers

This refreshing vegetable is abundant in moisture. The vitamin C content in cucumbers helps treat inflammation; whereas, the silica in the peel nourishes, hydrates and firms the skin.

Fish

Fatty fish like salmon, trout and tuna are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are said to reduce inflammation caused by UV radiation and may help reduce the risk of inflammatory skin diseases like psoriasis, dermatitis, and skin dryness. Aim to eat at least 120 g of fish twice a week.

Coconut 

Coconut oil is also packed with squalene, a compound that hydrates and softens skin, reduces inflammation, and protects against oxidative damage. Studies show that coconut also protects against atopic dermatitis, a condition that causes dry, red and itchy skin.