8 Superfoods to Keep Your Skin Smooth and Wrinkle-Free

Superfood No. 2: Blueberries and other low-sugar berries

Blueberries and many other berries contain wrinkle-fighting antioxidants known as anthocyanins, flavonoids that researchers believe may help suppress the growth of tumor cells and regulate blood sugar (preventing glycation, a process that makes collagen and elastic fibers in skin become stiff and lose its firm supple nature). Blueberries also contain vitamin C, which helps boost radiance and aids in collagen synthesis. In addition, researchers believe the phytochemicals in blueberries may positively affect our gut microbiome, which plays a key role in maintaining the health of our skin (not to mention our brains and virtually every other system in our body).  

Superfood No. 3: Beans and legumes 

A great source of animal-free protein and essential micronutrients, just one-half cup of beans is equal to 1 ounce of animal protein. Beans also provide our bodies with valuable prebiotics, insoluble fiber that helps support gastrointestinal microflora, key gatekeepers of skin health. If the balance of good versus bad bacteria in your belly gets out of whack, it can lead to wrinkles, acne, sun spots and rosacea, says Santa Monica, California-based dermatologist Ava Shamban.

Avoid canned beans, which are high in sodium and can make skin look puffy. If you are short on time and need to use canned beans, make sure to drain and thoroughly rinse them before cooking. “This can cut the amount of sodium by around 40 percent, says New York City-based physician and certified nutritionist Jeffrey Morrison. 

Superfood No. 4: Full fat plain Greek yogurt

High in protein (as much as 17 grams per cup versus 9 in regular yogurt) and teaming with gut-friendly bacteria, full fat Greek yogurt helps keep blood sugar steady — and your microbiome in balance. Of course, not all yogurt contains live cultures (some bacteria gets killed off during processing), so always check the label before you buy it. Also, avoid sweetened versions as they can trigger spikes in blood sugar (and accompanying inflammation).

Shamban recommends sweetening yogurt with cinnamon, which adds “a ton of antioxidants” and virtually no calories. If you don’t like plain yogurt, probiotics can also be found in kefir (again, avoid sugar) and fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, tempeh, miso and kombucha. 

Superfood No. 5: Tomatoes

Lycopene, the carotenoid that gives tomatoes their bright red color, may help ward off UV-induced damage like sun spots and wrinkles, according to Shamban. And yes, tomato sauce counts. Our bodies actually absorb lycopene more easily from cooked tomatoes than fresh ones, says Perricone. Keep in mind: Though all processed tomato products contain high levels of lycopene, many also contain a lot of sodium (tomato juice) and/or sugar (ketchup), so read labels carefully.

Superfood No. 6: Dark green leafy vegetables

Spinach, kale, arugula, bok choy, swiss chard: Nutrient dense and low in calories (one cup of spinach contains just seven calories) dark green leafy vegetables are loaded with detoxifying fiber and anti-inflammatory phytonutrients. In addition to helping to protect skin from UV damage, antioxidant lutein and zeaxanthin help keep eyes bright and clear (while preventing age-related problems like macular degeneration and cataracts).

According to a 2019 study in Food Chemistry, eating uncooked chopped spinach provides higher amounts of lutein than cooked methods. The best way to release lutein from the leaves is to slice it into strips in a salad or chop it up in a blender (try mixing it up in a blender with fresh lemon juice, celery, one-half green apple and ginger). 

Superfood No. 7: Nuts and seeds 

Experts say you’ll get the most bang for your nutritional buck with walnuts and almonds. Both contain high levels of vitamin E, which helps keep skin supple and hydrated and may offer some protection from UV rays. Walnuts and flax seeds also boast skin softening alpha linoleic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid. Recent studies link dietary α-Linolenic acid (ALA) with reduced systemic inflammation, which helps protect your heart, brain — and yes —  your skin, too. Nuts are a good source of potassium, which may help reduce facial bloat caused by excess sodium.

Superfood No. 8: Matcha

One more reason to double down on your daily matcha latte? Matcha, a powdered form of green tea that has been used in Japan for centuries, is packed with the antioxidant-rich catechin EGCG, which might be the closest thing found in nature to a fountain of youth. In addition to protecting skin against damage from free radicals and environmental stressors, these potent flavonoids have anti-inflammatory properties, which reduces redness and irritation in the skin. Several studies also suggest that matcha can improve skin elasticity and promote collagen production, helping to diminish the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Additionally, matcha contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which promotes relaxation and reduces stress levels which can contribute to healthier-looking skin by minimizing breakouts and improving overall skin tone.

To incorporate matcha into your diet, you can enjoy it as a hot or iced tea, add it to smoothies, or use it in various recipes such as matcha-infused desserts or breakfast bowls. It's important to choose high-quality, organic matcha to reap the full benefits. If you don’t love the taste of matcha, consider adding a tablespoon to your morning smoothie or breakfast bowl.

Remember, while superfoods like matcha can support skin health, it's essential to maintain a balanced diet and practice a comprehensive skincare routine for optimal results. Consulting with a dermatologist or nutritionist can provide personalized guidance based on your specific needs and goals.

By including matcha in your diet along with the previously mentioned superfoods, you can nourish your skin from the inside out and maintain a smooth, radiant complexion as you age.

Editor's note: This article, originally published February 10, 2022, has been updated to include an additional superfood.