For most people, the new year is a time for resolution. As you look back on the year behind you, think about the many areas due for improvement. For some, losing weight is a priority. For others, kicking bad habits sits at the top spot. One area often forgotten is skin care and maintenance. While it may seem odd, adding “clear complexion” to your big list of to-dos isn’t a decision rooted in vanity. After all, pesky acne breakouts and pimples can wreak havoc on a person’s confidence and self-esteem. Face uneven complexions head-on, and add “clear complexion” to the top of your resolution list.

Although OTC skincare treatments are the most popular method for clearing acne, there are various alternative options for achieving a clear complexion. Simple lifestyle changes— like increased sleep, weight maintenance, regular exercise, and a healthy diet —reduce acne breakouts and chronic complexion issues. Alternatively, you can choose oral and topical antibiotics or birth control to rid your skin of pesky zits.

It is highly recommended that anyone implementing acne treatment or care consult with a dermatologist before embarking on their journey. This cautionary step cushions you from side-effects like skin dryness, irritation, dizziness, lightheadedness, and skin redness prevalent with oral and topical medications. Although antibiotics are used routinely to treat acne, chemical-filled medicines can increase the chances of antimicrobial resistance, ultimately worsening acne. Thankfully, you can opt for all-natural acne solutions that are cost-efficient and side-effect-free.

In conjunction with the lifestyle changes, you should visit your dermatologist to avoid causing unintended harm. A few benefits of going to the dermatologist include:

  • Professional insight and knowledge
  • Access to medication not available over-the-counter.
  • Individualized plan-of-action
  • Specialized treatment options

When caught in the early stages, complexion complications can be efficiently rectified. Lifestyle changes and complexion-clearing, dermatologist-approved treatments can reduce difficult-to-remove acne scarring. In light of this, uninsured persons should shop for health insurance plans on AHiX Marketplace to gain access to dermatology benefits. With proper coverage,  acne treatments remain affordable if not completely covered, keeping the price of clear skin low.

Healthy foods for your skin

The adage is true —real beauty stems from within. Neglecting your body with poor dietary habits can cause hormone imbalances and excess oil production. If left unattended, unhealthy food intake can expose you to the harsh realities of hormonal acne and hyperactive glands. If you want a radiant, glowing complexion, you’ll need to implement nutrient-rich foods into your diet as often as possible. Listed below are foods guaranteed to keep you— and your skin— happy and healthy.

Fatty fish

Fishes like salmon, tuna, herring, and cod are packed with omega-3 fatty acids essential for healthy skin. Omega-3 fats in fish assist in keeping the skin thick, supple, and moisturized. A lack of fatty nutrients results in flaky, dry skin. Moreover, integrating fatty fish into your diet can reduce inflammation, which stresses and tires your skin.

Furthermore, fatty fish is rich in vitamin E, a crucial antioxidant for your skin. Vitamin E protects your skin against inflammation and harmful UV rays from the sun. Fatty fishes also contain zinc, which encourages new cell growth and protects from pollutants.

Green tea

Green tea contains powerful nutrients— also known as catechins —that help protect your skin. The benefits include but are not limited to:

  • Protection from harmful sun rays
  • Increased elasticity
  • Reduced inflammation
  • Elevated moisture levels
  • Slows wear-and-tear from aging

Pro tip: Directly ingesting green tea powder is believed to deliver more immediate results.

Greens

Do you want healthy-looking skin? If so, include leafy greens like spinach and kale in your diet. These greens are rich in antioxidants and come in handy when protecting your skin from sunburns. Leafy greens are also rich in vitamin A, C, and E, all of which encourage revitalization, increase moisture, reverse aging damage, and alleviate inflammation.

Rich in zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin C, broccoli contains healthy plant compounds known as sulforaphane, which protects the skin from sun damage by neutralizing harmful rays. Veggies that contain sulforaphane are known to reduce certain types of cancer, including those affecting the skin.

Dark chocolates

If you find yourself needing a reason to eat chocolate, you’ve found one. Cocoa is rich in antioxidants, resulting in thicker, smoother, and more hydrated skin. Additionally, cocoa improves blood circulation resulting in increased nutrient flow and supply to your skin.

Nuts

Nuts— like walnuts —are rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. The nutrient-rich acids found in nuts are crucial in reducing inflammation and decreasing sensitivity. Walnuts, in particular, contain zinc, which aids in healing damaged skin and fighting harmful bacteria. Although nuts also contain antioxidants and vitamin E, levels are low enough to be ineffective. When looking for antioxidant and vitamin E benefits, look towards leafy greens or fatty fish.

Brazil nuts contain selenium, which is a potent antioxidant in protecting your skin from free radicals. Furthermore, studies have shown that selenium helps clear the skin, reducing the chances of acne breakouts.

Some fruits

Citrus fruits— like lemons and oranges —possess high vitamin C levels that support collagen to improve your skin’s firmness. Similarly, avocados provide the skin with vitamins E, C, and natural fats, all of which are crucial aid in moisturization efforts and protect skin from sun damage.

Berries— including but not limited to goji berries, strawberries, and cranberries— contain antioxidants with unique anti-inflammatory properties that help the body heal. Berries also protect your body from sun damage, leaving your skin in tip-top condition. Like berries, tomatoes contain significant sun-protectant nutrients called carotenoids that protect from the sun and reduce early-onset wrinkles.

Concluding thoughts

Acne breakouts can be painful— both emotionally and physically. Complexion complications often result in lowered self-esteem and continuous frustration as you try to scrub your way back to clear skin. Avoid unnecessary stress and tackle chronic acne head-on by scheduling an appointment with a certified dermatologist and implementing small lifestyle changes. Introducing nutrient-rich foods into your diet can clear skin quickly and efficiently, leaving you with a healthy, clear complexion without annoying medication side-effects.