What to Drink and Eat to Keep Your Skin Beautiful All Winter Long

Winter weather has arrived, meaning dry and flaky skin is inevitable for some of us. Thankfully, there are several easy ideas and tips for keeping your skin moisturized and supple during the chilly months. From working from the inside out, to knowing which foods to eat and which to avoid, here are some handy pointers that can make all the difference between dry skin and a radiant complexion.

Water

The best way to hydrate the skin is to increase the amount of water you consume—most people drink far too little water. According to the Mayo Clinic, a woman should be drinking 2.7 liters of water a day. It is the miracle cure for dry skin, carrying oxygen and nutrients from food to the body’s cells. If you need a reminder, consider setting your phone alarm to tell you to hydrate every couple of hours.

Silica

If you want moisturized skin that always looks young and supple, add celery and cucumbers – both of which contain silica – to your diet. Silica boosts skin’s elasticity and helps keep it from drying out. Tip: add cucumbers to your water, which also adds a hint of flavor, and celery to smoothies or salads.

Avocado

Avocados are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids. You can add them to your diet, or try mashing them up for a face mask. Wear on the face, for 5 to 15 minutes, and then rinse, to moisturize the skin. Either way, you will see a difference in your skin.

Flax Seeds and Nuts

Your skin needs Omega-3 fatty acids to help it retain its moisture. Walnuts, almonds, and flax seeds instantly boost Omega-3s, and help your skin retain its moisture for longer. Grind flax seeds in a coffee grinder, and store them in your freezer, in a sealed container. Sprinkle them on top of salads and other foods (but make sure not heat them).

Green Smoothies

There is no end to the awesome fruit and vegetable combinations you can mix together to concoct delicious smoothies, quickly and easily. The more greens you add to your smoothie, the more it helps guard against dry winter skin. If veggies aren’t your thing, you can add some berries for a super-nutritious, skin-enhancing cocktail that tastes just like dessert.

Things to Avoid

Caffeine

Think twice before pouring yourself that third cup of coffee in the morning—caffeine can detract from your efforts to hydrate, actually drying out your skin. It is known to also lurk in energy drinks, tea and soda, so you just might be drinking more caffeine than you think. Remember to read the labels before you choose something to drink, and try to stick with water, 100% juice, and green or herbal teas.

Alcohol

The winter months bring many tempting opportunities to celebrate with alcohol, and we’re not against the occasional indulgence. Be warned, however, that with each sip of alcohol you take, you also increase the chances of drying out your skin.