A major part of managing dry skin is the regular application of a daily moisturizer. The moisturizer hydrates the skin and prevents flakiness and scaling. However, along with using a moisturizer, you can change your dietary habits to manage dry skin. Before you make any dietary changes to treat dry skin, check with your doctor. Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders and psoriasis require medical treatment in order to relieve dry skin.
Benefits
Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids have a moisturizing effect on dry skin. Foods high in this nutrient include nuts, salmon, herring, canola oil, flaxseed and trout. If you don't eat enough foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, supplements are available. You should notice an improvement in the moisture level of your skin in as little as four weeks.
Types
Vitamin-E rich foods can also be added to the diet to help improve the symptoms of dry skin. Good sources of vitamin E include broccoli, spinach, kale, wheat germ and nuts. Not only should you drink plenty of fluid to combat dry skin, but also increase intake by eating foods with high water content, such as melon, lettuce, cucumbers and peppers.
Expert Insight
High vitamin C intake causes less age-related skin dryness and fewer wrinkles. The recommended daily allowance of vitamin C for men is 90mg daily. Women need 75mg of vitamin C each day. Food sources of vitamin C include lemon, papaya, oranges, broccoli, kale, kiwi, cauliflower and cantaloupe.
Considerations
Carbohydrate and fat intake can increase your risk of skin problems, including facial dryness. Limit saturated fat intake by avoiding foods, such as fried meals, fast food, fatty cuts of meat, sweets and full fat dairy products. Limit the amount of simple carbohydrates you eat like white bread, white rice, refined sugar, pasta and sugary cereals. Eat complex carbs like whole wheat breads and pastas, fruits and vegetables.
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