Eat up to get plump… skin that is

Not all fats are created equal.

Did you know that your body requires a certain amount of healthy fats called essential fatty acids? They boost our production of collagen and elastin, which are the proteins responsible for keeping our skin smooth, firm and supple. As we grow older, we produce less of these proteins, which leads to the formation of fine lines and sagging skin.

Here are our top three food recommendations to complement an anti-aging skincare regimen for youthful skin.

Oily fish

Fatty fish like salmon and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin A. Both boost collagen and elastin production, which strengthens skin, and slows down the aging process.

Flaxseeds

Like oily fish, flaxseeds are high in omega-3 — in its oil form, this humble seed is actually the richest source of omega-3 among oils. Besides stimulating your skin’s production of collagen and elastin to keep your skin smooth and supple, it has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Flaxseed oil is often utilized to speed up healing and treat skin conditions like eczema and dry skin, which gives skin an aged appearance.

Flaxseed oil can be found in chemists or pharmacies without prescription, while raw flaxseeds can be bought from the supermarket. Besides applying it topically, you can also get the benefits from eating it — ground or toasted flaxseeds taste great with cereal and in your smoothies.

Avocados

Last but not least — avocados. This fruit has not one, not two, but three major anti-aging ingredients. Besides being a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, this fruit is also high in carotenoid antioxidants. These strenghten your skin’s density, making it thicker and less likely to show fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, avocados also contain vitamin C, which boost your production of collagen and elastin. Vitamin C also helps your body repair itself, reducing the damage from free radicals.

Of course, nothing beats a good skincare regimen, so use these to boost your existing routine, which should include collagen growth serums and healing ingredients like vitamin A, vitamin A derivatives like retinols and vitamin C.