Sugar-heavy foods are best avoided for clear, glowing skin according to dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, who notes that sugar is notorious for causing inflammation in the body. While he suggests a mediterranean diet to bring out the best in your face with a high protein and antioxidant content, a diet rich in sugar is more than likely going to cause your skin to swing the other way.
Although sugar is known to have a multitude of negative effects on your health, Zeichner explains that it can also cause your skin to age more quickly. “High sugar consumption can lead to a process called glycationi, where sugar molecules bind to collagen, causing it to harden. Glycated collagen breaks rather than bends, and the skin becomes weaker with loss of structure, and develops wrinkles,” he says.
Collagen in your skin is vital for maintaining firmness and preventing wrinkles, so it’s important to nourish your body with food that doesn’t harm collagen production. And, as sugar may cause an inflammatory effect on your body, your skin will appear bloated and puffy despite your immaculate skincare routine, fighting against the youthful complexion you’re working towards.
Your diet should be well-rounded and nutrient dense, not only for your overall health, but for the quality of your skin as you age. If your main goal is to prevent wrinkles and maintain an ageless look, it could be valuable to eliminate or cut down on sugar to actually see the results of your skincare routine. Your body is a network of connections that all work together, so it’s important to remember that you’re eating for the longevity of your health in all aspects.