There are certain foods that may help protect your skin from sun damage.
- Fruits and vegetables: Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can provide your body with antioxidants, which can help protect against damage from UV rays. Some antioxidant-rich foods include berries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, carrots, and leafy greens.
- Fish: Fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel contain omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that may help protect against UV damage.
- Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds are a good source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that may help protect against skin damage caused by UV rays.
- Green tea: Green tea contains catechins, which are antioxidants that may help protect against UV damage and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
- Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate contains flavanols, which are antioxidants that may help protect against UV damage.
It’s important to note that while these foods may help protect against sun damage, they should not be used as a substitute for sunscreen or protective clothing. Sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 should be applied generously to all exposed skin, and protective clothing such as hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts should be worn when possible to minimize sun exposure.