We’ve all been there: waking up one morning to a pesky zit that just won’t go away. Breakouts will happen to all of us, no matter how much we complain about them. While there are countless creams and lotions you can use to treat a breakout, eating the right foods might actually prevent you from breaking out in the first place. From avocados to dark chocolate (yes, we said chocolate), you can eat your way to clear skin in no time!
1. Dark chocolate
As if we need an excuse to eat more chocolate, having a small amount of dark chocolate a day can actually improve your skin. Packed with high amounts of flavonols, a type of antioxidant, dark chocolate can help protect your skin from UV rays and free radicals. It also helps nourish your skin to heal breakouts.
2. Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain vitamin C, which can help brighten your skin tone and reduce inflammation. They’re also loaded with the antioxidant lycopene; good for evening out skin texture and protecting against UV rays.
3. Garlic
From helping your heart and healing cold sores, garlic is great for your health in general. Specifically for your skin, the allicin found in garlic helps kill off the bacteria that directly cause acne! Can’t stand having bad breath? Simply rubbing a clove of garlic on your pimple can reduce the redness and inflammation.
4. Berries
Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, oh my! No matter what kind of berry you prefer, all have antioxidants and beta-Carotene that fight off free radicals. Berries can also help improve collagen production, which can improve your skin’s overall texture and tone.
5. Avocados
Guac lovers, rejoice! Chock full of vitamin E (great to reverse skin cell damage) and vitamin C (to reduce skin’s redness), avocados leave your skin looking healthy and glowing. So next time you’re at Chipotle, splurge and get some guac. Your skin—and taste buds—will thank you.
6. Water
We’ve heard it a million times: drink eight ounces of water a day. Well, there’s a reason why hydration is important. Water naturally flushes your body out and gets rid of all those yucky toxins that can cause breakouts. Add a slice of lemon for some extra taste and defense against bacteria.
7. Salmon
Known for its omega-3 fatty acids, salmon can significantly improve your complexion by helping decrease your clogged pores and inflammation. Plus it naturally moisturizes your skin and protects it from damage.
8. Sweet Potatoes
If you enjoy sweet potato fries, you’re in luck! Sweet potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, which helps produce collagen, heal zits and reduce stress (which may be causing your breakouts!). They also contain beta-Carotene, an antioxidant to protect against skin damage.
9. Watermelon
Not only is watermelon delicious, it also helps hydrate and moisturize your skin. Beyond that, it can also help reduce excess oil, one of the main sources of acne.
These skin-improving super foods are guaranteed to beat zits before they even pop up. Get healthy, clear skin from the inside, out!