Boost dull winter skin

Want to know what you can do to boost dull winter skin? Lowri Turner has the answer – and it’s all about what you put on your plate.

Our skin has a natural waterproof layer on the top. This not only keeps bad stuff out, but seals in moisture. The waterproof layer is partly made from essential omega-3 fats.  It can be found in oily fish (salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines) and to a lesser extent in nuts and seeds (Brazils, walnuts, almonds, pumpkin, sunflower and flax seeds), so try and add more of these to your diet to help boost moisturise levels from within.

If these oils are to do their job, they need some moisture to seal in, so you need to make sure you’re drinking enough water – 1 – 1.5 litre p/day. Also, limit caffeinated drinks (tea, coffee, diet cola) to 2 cups p/day as these cause your whole body to lose water.

There are a few skin-saving nutrients that you could boost including vitamin C and zinc. Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, while zinc is contained in shellfish and nuts.  As for lifting winter pallour, one of the most overlooked nutrients for skin is iron. This is because iron is used to make the red pigment in blood cells, which carry oxygen around the body. For a healthy, glowing and pink skin, you need a good blood supply so boost iron by eating red meat, spinach or dried fruits.

Lowri Turner is a nutritionist and hypnotherapist and specialises in weight loss and hormone balance. She sees clients at The Hale Clinic in London. To make an appointment, please go to www.lowriturner.com