The 3 yes's and 3 no's of skin resilience! Lesson 1: Diet

A small cut on the skin will heal itself even if you don't do anything about it. This is because of the skin's innate resilience. But not even the skin, which is the body's largest organ, is impervious when we grow older, become more stressed, or have a weak immune system. Rashes and dermatitis are more likely to appear. If we can create a good environment for our bodies and enhance our skin's ability to resist inflammation and heal, then why not kill two birds with one stone?

The initial two to three weeks after a wound occurred is the golden period for wound repair. At this time, not only should you take proper care of the wound but also have a balanced diet and adequate nutrients so as to provide a good environment for the enhancement of skin immunity and for the healing of the wound.

Lesson 1: Diet

The 3 Yes's:

1. Protein (repairs tissues)
It is recommended that you consume plenty of foods like milk, eggs, fish, meat, and beans. You can also repair your skin with products that contain peptides derived from lactoferrin.

2. Vitamin C (antioxidant)
In addition to being well-known as an antioxidant and skin-brightener, vitamin C also plays a role in the synthesis of collagen, making wounds heal faster. Recommended foods: sweet oranges, oranges, kiwis, guavas, and other fruits rich in vitamin C.

3. Vitamin A (promotes wound repair)
Vitamin A enhances the health of skin and mucous membranes, and plays an important role in the wound healing process. Recommended foods: liver, carrots, pumpkins, tomatoes, and dark green vegetables.

The 3 No's:

1. Crustaceans, such as shrimp and crab, may cause allergies and burden the skin.

2. Raw food or partially-cooked food pose greater risks for people with weakened immune systems.

3. Stimulating foods such as anything spicy, greasy, fried, too salty, or too sweet.