That quintessential image of glowing skin—it’s a look most brides and grooms long for on their wedding day. Sure, nothing beats the experience of being in love to bring out one’s most natural radiance. However, factors such as a lack of sleep and the extra stress leading up to one’s wedding day can certainly impact the health of one’s skin. An intentional skin care routine and special attention to nutrient-rich foods are key to keeping the effects of those stressors from showing. Take note of these dietitian-approved recommendations to achieve that desired glow.
COLLAGEN
Collagen is the body’s most abundant structural protein, building connective tissue for skin, bone, cartilage and tendons. Unfortunately, collagen’s elasticity breaks down as we age. Protect and boost collagen levels by adding collagen-rich foods to your diet and using collagen-stimulating skin care products.
TREAT IT! Murad Rapid Collagen Infusion, $79, murad.com
EAT IT! COLLAGEN PROTEIN POWDER, BONE BROTH, CHICKEN, FISH AND SHELLFISH
LOCAL PICK: Moonlit Skincare Midnight Shift Overnight Facial Oil, $34, moonlitskincare.com
VITAMIN C
Nutritionally, vitamin C is an antioxidant that neutralizes the effects of free radical damage, boosts the immune system and aids in the production of collagen. Topically, a vitamin C serum can further generate collagen, reduce inflammation and assist with irregular skin pigmentation.
TREAT IT! Sunday Riley C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum $85, sundayriley.com
EAT IT! FRUITS AND VEGETABLES, SPECIFICALLY CITRUS FRUITS, STRAWBERRIES, KIWIS, BELL PEPPERS, BROCCOLI, TOMATOES AND DARK LEAFY GREENS
LOCAL PICK: Rue Santé Brightened Face and Eye Serum, $35, ruesante.com
VITAMIN A
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin and antioxidant responsible for protecting eyesight, regulating organ function and improving cell communication. As a topical agent, retinols assist with cell turnover to improve skin texture and brighten dull skin.
TREAT IT! Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum, $85, nordstrom.com
EAT IT! SALMON, SWEET POTATOES, WINTER SQUASH, CARROTS, GREEN LEAFY VEGETABLES
LOCAL PICK: Herbivore Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Smoothing Serum, $54, herbivorebotanicals.com
HYALURONIC ACID (HA)
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that maintains moisture to lubricate joints, nerves and muscles; it also keeps skin plump and supple. As with collagen, the human body decreases production of HA as we get older. While there are no foods that provide HA, eating nutrient-dense foods can protect HA levels in the body.
TREAT IT! Nassif MD Hydro-Screen Hydration Serum, $80, nassifmdskincare.com
EAT IT! Soy-based foods (tofu, edamame, miso), root vegetables (sweet potatoes, beets), avocado, citrus fruits and dark leafy greens. Seattle-based, women-owned loose leaf tea company Teassance, which launched this year, offers a Go Glow blend, which contains lemon myrtle, alfalfa and calendula petals, all high in vitamins C and A, as well as antioxidants that support hyaluronic acid, a substance that’s naturally present in the body.
LOCAL PICK: Rho Cosmetics Hydra Boost Repair and Balance Serum, $78, rhocosmetics.com
Teassance Go Glow 100% organic anti-aging tea blend, $12.95, teassance.com
Sarah Lawson is a Seattle native and a registered dietitian nutritionist with more than 12 years of experience. She currently provides one-on-one nutrition counseling to individuals looking to improve their health, reduce risk of chronic disease, and end diet cycling and disordered eating patterns. Disclaimer: These recommendations are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. Please consult with your general practitioner and/or dermatologist before starting a diet or skin care regimen.
