3 Diet Mistakes You Should Stop Making Over 40 Because They Make Aging Skin So Much Worse

There’s no reason at all why you can’t have smooth, soft skin, not matter your age. Great skincare starts from within — before you splurge on the next great serum or moisturizer you’ve read about, consider that what you put on your plate (or leave off of it) can play an even bigger role in the state of your skin than fancy skincare products. Registered Dietitian Johna Burdeos talks to SHEFinds.com about three diet mistakes you should stop making over 40 if aging skin is a concern and you want to ensure your complexion is hydrated and healthy.

It isn’t always about what you leave out of your diet plan — what you add in is also crucial. “The average adult body is made up of 50-65% water,” Burdeos says. “Water is vital for all body functions including the skin — which is an organ. Dehydration shows in the skin — causing dull or uneven color and fine lines to show more. Drinking 2 liters of water daily or more simply, enough that your urine is pale to light yellow, will help.”

Don’t sleep on fruits and vegetables — incorporating more antioxidant-rich whole foods is a key way to make your skin look amazing. “An antioxidant rich diet helps the body fight against the damaging effects of free radicals,” Burdeos says. “Free radicals attack the lipid in your skin; lipid is what helps your skin retain moisture and elasticity.”