DIY (Do It Yourself) is a huge buzzword these days.  I recently purchased the book ‘Homemade Beauty’ by Annie Strole because I’m curious about what actually works on skin and what doesn’t.  To be honest, I haven’t tried and of her suggested recipes yet.  As a dermatologist I take pride in having perfect skin and am worried about a possible irritation or reaction.  When it comes to your skin, it is important to understand that some DIYs could be ineffective (waste of money and effort) or damaging (allergic reactions, tissue damage, etc).  Before you mix up something for your skin at home, here are five things to watch out for with DIY home treatments.  

Coconut Oil – People rave about how soft this makes their skin.  An  all-natural oil that can be really effective and a great moisturizer. However, this oil can also be very allergenic.  If you use coconut oil as part of your skin care routine, watch out for any suspicious rashes or irritation and stop use immediately. Non Surgical Eye Lift

Lemon – This highly acidic juice can irritate the skin and impact the acid balance.  The natural pH of skin is 4.5-5 while lemon juice has a pH of 2.  Keeping pH in balance is important to the overall health of your skin.  Lemon juice is highly acidic and can cause irritation.  Also, the oils in citrus fruits are phototoxic (meaning that exposure to sun can result in a dark hyperpigmented rash that can take weeks to resolve).  While some people claim that lemon will help to fade scars and lighten dark spots, the risk of irritation and damage to skin is high. So lemon for your skin is a no-no but if you want to ingest it go right ahead!  In fact, I swear by squeezing fresh lemon into my water every day. It’s a great detox, and it’s full of natural antioxidants that are great for the skin.

Baking Soda – The texture of baking soda mimics that of our favorite exfoliators and some say that it will help to slough of dry skin.  However the pH of baking soda is too alkaline for the face.  With a pH of 9, baking soda can damage the skin’s natural barrier (which keeps bad bacteria out). This can result in skin infections and can also result in moisture loss.  

Sugar – I’ve already posted about how too much sugar can cause breakouts on your skin but using it externally can be just as bad.  The skin on your face is really thin and is no match for the texture of sugar.  You will actually find that many of the scrubs and exfoliators on the market are too rough and are likely creating tiny tears which damage and prematurely age the skin.  Keep the sugar exfoliation on your legs and feet. When I want to exfoliate my face, I choose gentle exfoliators. I’ve already raved about Hydropeptide’s plump and polish peel. It uses gentle microdermabrasion crystals for exfoliating. If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option, a once weekly gentle apricot scrub will do.

Rubbing Alcohol – This antibacterial disinfectant is great for sterilizing wounds and cleaning your house.  For your facial skin, I’m not a fan.  Alcohol is one of the most drying, damaging ingredients that you can put on your face.  Many toners and facial astringents contain ispropyl alcohol which will strip the skin.  Stripping the skin of its natural oils will paradoxically cause you to produce excess oils that can clog pores.  Be on the lookout for this ingredient and avoid these products.  

I do have a DIY DO to share that I have had some success with.  When my son was born I started having problems with my hair and began using a blend of oils that somebody suggested.  I mix equal parts of peppermint oil, jojoba oil, Jamaican black castor oil, rosemary oil, and tea tree oil. Some studies have found rosemary oil to be as effective as 2% minoxidil.

Do you have a DIY that you swear by?  Have you had a DIY disaster?  Please share with me at info@vibrantdermatology.com.

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My eyelashes have never been full, long or strong.  In fact, they are kind of wimpy. As a dermatologist, I often prescribe a medication called Latisse to patients who desire longer, fuller, eyelashes.  Latisse contains a prostaglandin analog called bimatoprost. While it is very effective, I have had two personal concerns with the product that cause me not to use it personally. One, I’ve found that some peoples eyelashes grow out in a way that looks a little artificial… kind of like spider legs. This is rare, but I wasn’t interested in that look myself! More importantly, being that I am more inclined to use green/clean products, I was just a little wary of putting a prostaglandin analog near my eyes. I believe that it’s safe, otherwise I wouldn’t prescribe it at all. But when it comes to my personal preference, I err on the side of extreme caution. My entire job, after all, depends on be having keen eyesight (can’t be a blind dermatologist, unfortunately).

I’ve tried a variety of natural formulas to strengthen my weak eyelashes but often didn’t see the results I’d expected.  I started using LASH from Hydropeptide about 6 months ago and have been blown away by the results.  This was the first Hydropeptide product that I tried and I was amazed by how well it worked.

Application of this product is easy.  Simply apply a thin coat of the product at the base of your eyelashes every evening (it goes on a bit like liquid mascara).  I did notice some tingling the first couple of nights that I applied the product but it wasn’t painful and subsided within a week.  For best results, you will want to apply this product every evening.  I started noticing new growth about two weeks into use and by the end of the first month my lashes were definitely stronger. 

As with all HydroPeptide products, I love that this is made with clean technology and free of most nasty chemicals.  The LASH formula has 3 peptides (including eyelash fortifying peptides and hair-fullness peptide for superior lash results), biotin, folic acid, hydrogenated lecithin, lemon peel extract (to help prevent breakage and strengthen hair), and soybean oil  (to hydrate and nourish the brow and lash area).  In full disclosure, I will say that it does contain a preservative. I have talked in detail with the company about this, as I do strive to be mostly preservative free. In this instance, it’s all about safety. You pretty much have to use a preservative with products used around the eye.  Think of the catastrophic consequences of an eye infection.

You can also use this product to fill out thinning eyebrows.  If you are already using  Latisse and happy with the results, by all means continue. It is the prescription gold standard. But if you are looking for something cleaner and extremely effective, this product is a MUST have.

Order LASH direct from Hydropeptide 

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I had lunch with a good friend recently and as she ordered her club sandwich, she requested that the bacon be left off of it.  As I glanced her way she sort of sighed and said ‘did you see the W.H.O. report, now bacon can cause cancer!’  

Of course, she was referring to the clarification report that the World Health Organization recently issued stating that there is an increased risk for colorectal cancer from eating processed meat.

Before we all jump to conclusions about this, it is important to understand the data behind the statements.  The W.H.O. has classified meat alongside numerous other products as a ’probably and possible carcinogen’.  It lists bacon alongside cigarettes, alcohol and asbestos.  We know that smoking raises a person’s risk of developing lung cancer by 2,500 percent (so quit smoking NOW!).  Based on the association identified by the W.H.O., two daily strips of bacon would translate to about a 6 percent risk for colon cancer (up from the 5 percent risk for those who aren’t enjoying bacon).  Sadly, the messages that came forward after the W.H.O. announcement made it sound as if bacon is just as bad as cigarettes.  

Another factor that isn’t considered in this report is the overall lifestyle of individuals.  Could it be that the bacon eaters are more likely to be smokers or sedentary – factors that increase your risk of cancer and that the non-meat eaters exercise regularly and eat their vegetables (which helps to protect them)?  How about the genetics of the individual?  We know that genetics can play a role in cancer.  

Although red and processed meats can increase your risk of colon cancer, there is no need to cut these products from your diet entirely.  

Red meat has been identified as all types of mammalian muscle meat (beef, veal, pork, lamb, mutton, horse, and goat).  Processed meat refers to meat that has been transformed through salting, curing, fermentation, smoking or other processes to enhance flavor or improve preservation (hot dogs, sausages and ham are a few examples). Some processed meats contain nitrites, which are potential carcinogens, If you are a big consumer of red and processed meet, an easy step to take is to reduce your intake.  Also, experts recommend an annual screening between the ages of 50 and 75 (or earlier if there is a family history of colorectal cancer).  Your doctor can provide you with guidance on diet and recommended screenings during your annual physical.  

Here are my rules when it comes to meat, based on my understanding of the science

1. I stick to grass fed/vegetarian fed, organic meat. It is obviously more expensive, but I’d rather cut down on other non-essential things in order to afford good meat.
2. I avoid all processed meats that contain nitrites. I look for labels that specifically say NITRATE free.
3. I try to limit red meat overall all. We mostly eat chicken.  I use ground turkey instead of ground beef. If I have bacon, it’s turkey bacon
4. When it comes to eggs and milk, I stick with the same principles – organic, vegetarian fed.
5. I try to eat fish twice a week and only go for wild caught fish. Given the recent oil spills in our waters, I try to find Icelandic fish if I can.

To be honest, this W.H.O. clarification didn’t really alter the way that I eat.  We were already avoiding processed meats – earlier research has supported that these forms of meat aren’t very good for you.  We limit our consumption of red meat and when we do enjoy meat it is organic and we stick to the leaner cuts of meat.  I suggested to my friend that she go ahead and enjoy the bacon on her sandwich.  I know that she lives a relatively healthy lifestyle – a few slices of bacon every so often is not going to have a drastic effect on her overall health.  

What about you?  Would you eat the bacon?  Connect with me on Facebook and share your thoughts!

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Cancer is a really scary thing.  It seems like almost every day I either see a patient being diagnosed or hear of another friend being diagnosed with some form of cancer.  Ongoing research has offered so many advancements in how we diagnose and treat cancer but still, too many people are turning up with too many forms of cancer.  I recently read an article in Harvard Magazine highlighting the hereditary link in certain types of cancers. 

The dermatologist in me reads this article and recalls all of the skin cancers that I have seen in patients.  Skin cancer is highly heritable but with early detection it is usually 100% curable.  If you or a first degree relative have had a history of skin cancer, it is important that all other first degree relatives have regular skin checks by a Board Certified Dermatologist.  Educate your family members on the ABCDE’s of skin cancer and on the importance of using sunscreen on a daily basis.  Protect your children from UV rays with sunscreen and protective clothing. If you do notice something suspicious on your skin, visit a Board Certified Dermatologist as soon as possible.  Early detection is critical! 

Back to the article, the optimist in me reads this and considers the fact that 1/3 of cancers are very heritable, which means that 2/3 are not.  Think about that for a minute.  By reducing exposure to toxic substances and fueling your body with good, clean food, you can actually decrease your likelihood of getting cancer (the non-genetic cancers that is).  Our genes are not our destiny and good, clean food can be our best medicine.  Even in the instance of highly heritable cancers, environmental modifications can help! Take this example – You have two identical twins with a strong family history of melanoma.  One twin is a sun worshiper, smoker, and does not take very good care of himself. The second twin wears sunscreen, avoids the sun, eats well, and exercises plenty. Which twin is more likely to end of up with skin cancer? In my book, it’s genes + environment that usually determines what diseases we get. Science backs up this view point.

In my home, we have taken steps to proactively limit our exposure to everyday carcinogens.  We avoid processed junk food and artificial sweeteners and fuel our bodies with organic foods that are packed with antioxidants which helps to repair damaged cells.  We exercise on a regular basis (obesity has been linked to increase risks of certain types of cancers) and encourage an active lifestyle for our children.  We don’t smoke and consume alcohol only in moderation.  We limit the use of BPA, avoid personal care products that contain certain chemicals like phthalates, sulfates etc and use natural cleaning products.  I could fill pages and pages about how  we are striving to live ‘clean’.  I say strive, because I am practical. I am a working woman, and a mom, and busy just like everyone else. Are we always perfect, no. But, we try our best.

With all of this information, I would like to introduce a new segment that I am planning for my Blog – CLEANhealth.   Look for CLEANhealth blog posts and CLEANtips on my social media channels to highlight how I have created a CLEAN environment for my family.  I know that this CLEAN lifestyle will help to protect us from many forms of cancer and that is something that gives me comfort.

If you have taken an initiative to create a clean environment for your family, I would love to feature you on my blog.  Email me at info@vibrantdermatology.com. 

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A common ingredient in many skin care products is acid.  A common misconception is that something that is ‘acid’ is going to peel or exfoliate your skin.  This isn’t always the case, used correctly, acids can also help with dry skin, fine lines, wrinkles, and acne.  If you are feeling overwhelmed after staring at ingredient labels and need some direction (and product recommendations), read on.  

In my opinion, there are 10 acids that you need to know about.  

1. Retinoc Acid (Retinol) – Derived from Vitamin A, Retinoic acid is well known as an antiaging powerhouse. This acid causes skin cell turnover and provides benefits of increased collagen production, clean pores, accelerated skin cell shedding and evened out skin tone.  Your skin may take a short time to adjust to this acid (skin flaking is completely normal).  Because of this acid’s anti-aging benefits, almost every female dermatologist is on a prescription retinoid. My favorite prescription retinoid is Differin, very effective, with few side effects.
2. Salicylic Acid – If you have acne, this acid is sure to be in your bathroom.  When used to treat acne, the acid will dry up blemishes.  As an antibacterial, the acid will work as an exfoliator to remove discolored and damaged skin cells to improve skin tone.  At high concentrations, sal acid can be used as a chemical peel that can help clear major breakouts in no time. Salicylic acid peels should be performed by your dermatologist. I have acne, so I make sure to do a sal acid peel every 3 months.
3. Glycolic Acid – This is one of the best acids out there, going beyond the top layer of skin to help loosen up the bonds that hold dead skin together.  Glycolic acid will shrink pores, lighten spots, even out scars, lessen wrinkles and keep the texture of your skin smooth and bright.  Gentle enough for beginners with proven anti-aging properties, this would be a great start if you want to incorporate acids into your routine.    If you are new to acids, I would recommend starting at a 5% glycolic acid product. Neostrata has a great glycolic acid wash.
4. Lactic Acid – Gentle and effective, those with sensitive skin will benefit from a product that includes Lactic acid.  It exfoliates and softens lines and wrinkles in a much less irritating way than other acids.  Find it in HydroPeptide Even Out (enter code DOCTOR-IP for preferred pricing).  
5. Mandelic Acid – Another one that works well on sensitive skin, Mandelic acid is great for brightening skin, addressing dark spots, as well as diminishing the signs of aging.  
6. Hyaluronic Acid – This acid is a moisture booster and can add volume when injected.  A key in many moisturizers and fillers, hyaluronic acid is synthetically made to replicate a natural structural component of skin.  When used as a cream or serum, skin will feel softer and you will notice improvement in the appearance of fine lines.  Look for a product that combines this with vitamin C to assist in effective penetration.  
7. Azelaic Acid – If you suffer from redness (especially related to rosacea) and acne, Azelaic acid could benefit you.  This acid is derived from grains and soothes irritated skin.  Azeliac acid is also a power fighter of hyperpigmentation. The great news about this product is that it can be used in pregnancy!! This is my go to product for fighting my acne and melasma (the brown mask of pregnancy that many women get) when I am expecting. Works like a charm and perfectly safe.
8. Ascorbic Acid – This is the synthetic version of Vitamin C and is known to have antioxidant benefits as well as the ability to brighten skin and increase collagen.  You’ll find vitamin C in lots of serums. Just be careful. Some vitamin C serums can lose potency quickly. I keep mine in the fridge to preserve it for as long as possible.
9. Alpha Lipoic Acid – A powerful antioxidant that will help to minimize the look of lines and wrinkles, Alpha Lipoic acid will protect against free radicals and help to prevent damage.  This a newer, more-potent antioxidant that will diminish fine lines and give your skin a healthy glow.  
10. Malic Acid – Another one that is great for sensitive skin, Malic Acid encourages cell turnover when used as an exfoliator.  

Many over the counter products will combine these acids to produce a powerful combination for your skin care needs. You an also find many of these acids combined for effective skin brightening and pore tightening in the Hydropeptide plump and peel kit. This is why this is my go to home peeling kit that I use once a week to make sure that my skin always has a healthy glow.  It is important to find the right balance for your skin type (especially those with sensitive skin).  Any new skin care routine will take time to see results – over time you should notice that your skin is brighter and more evened out.  If your skin becomes red, irritated, itchy and dry you may have overused the acid and should stop the use of the product for a few days (and be sure to keep up with the moisturizer to help soothe any irritation).  

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I’ve written before about the link between food and your skin.  Today I am going to focus on acne and why specific types of foods can trigger outbreaks.  Research has shown a trend that certain foods can actually effect your acne.  So before you go out and purchase expensive ‘spot treatments’ and acne fighters, I would encourage you to review your diet to see if any changes might benefit your skin. 

There are three main categories of food that I think about when I consider how a diet can impact acne:  cow’s milk, sugar and high-glycemic foods.

1:  Cow’s Milk – A 2010 study has found an association between cow’s milk and acne, although there are only theories on why this is.  Cow’s milk spikes blood sugar (increasing inflammation which leads to pimples) and increases insulin levels (encouraging the production of skin oils).  Additionally, the added hormones found in cow’s milk can encourage the overgrowth of skin cell’s, which can block pores.  Blocked pores = breakouts.

Suggested diet change: Purchase organic dairy products to avoid added hormones. If you notice a link between your acne and dairy, think about other non-dairy sources of calcium (I like almond milk).  If you choose to drink milk, also be aware that skim milk is actually worse for your acne!! The process used to produce skim milk actually leave more acne causing hormones behind.

2.  Sugar – Similar to milk, a spike in your blood sugar levels is going to lead to increased inflammation, causing pimples.  You need to consider exactly how much sugar you’re eating in a day – and especially concentrate on any time that you are eating a large amount at once.

Suggested diet change: Cut back!  We don’t require sugar in our diets and the more we eat, the more our body craves it.  Try dropping one soda or sugary snack to begin with and keep cutting until it’s all gone.  Try using natural sweeteners (honey, maple syrup) if you really need to sweeten something. 

3.  High-glycemic foods – Foods that break down quickly in the body (think things like white bread, processed cereals, white rice, cakes, pretzels, etc) will trigger an insulin spike and raise blood sugar levels.  These changes will trigger hormonal fluctuations and inflammation which in turn encourage acne.  If you choose low glycemic foods (vegetables, whole grains, etc) instead you are sure to notice a change in your skin.

Suggested diet change:  Same as the sugar, cut back!  Avoid junk food (and fast food) opting instead for clean snacks and meals.  Choose salads with lean protein over a cheeseburger and fries and think about nutritious snacks that will provide you with long-lasting energy (almonds are my go to!). 

Personally, I think altering eating habits should always be the first step towards enjoying clearer skin.  A clean, consistent diet will help to ensure beautiful skin (and definitely won’t hurt your waistline either!).  It will take time to see results from any changes in your diet, but if you don’t see improvements after four to six weeks you should contact a Board Certified Dermatologist for a more detailed analysis of your skin.

Have you personally cleared up your skin with dietary changes?  I would love to hear about it!  Comment below or email me your story at info@vibrantdermatology.com.

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Face lift anti-aging treatment – Asian woman portrait with graphic lines showing facial lifting effect on skin.

Botox® has gained huge press in the past years and for good reason.  Over 11 million people have experienced the benefit of Botox®, a treatment that smooths and rejuvenates your skin and reduces wrinkles that are caused by repeated facial expressions.

Often, women in their 30s and 40s come into the office and ask me if there are creams that can be used to correct the 11’s that have developed between their eyebrows, or the crow’s feet at the corners of the eyes. While certain creams such as prescription retinoids help prevent fine lines and wrinkles, they do not prevent or treat the wrinkles that develop from the dynamic movements of our face. If you are a smiley person like me, you may inevitably developed etched in lines from facial expressions. Neurotoxin or Botox, as it is most commonly called, is the perfect fix for this. Botox allows me to smile as much as I’d like while maintaining a youthful appearance. I started getting Botox a couple years ago, and have never looked back. Most of my patients feel that same way – once you try it, you never go back!!

Of course, there may be a ton of questions that come to mind about whether or not to get neurotoxin. The biggest concern that I hear about is whether or not your face will look “frozen” after the procedure.  In the right hands, the answer is absolutely not! My goal is to make you look refreshed and wrinkle free, while still maintaining natural movement and expression in your face.  It is important that you get your care from a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon. Remember the goal is to be a renewed you, not a new you.  To find out more about what to expect, read on here….

Initial Consultation

Dr. Joyce Imahiyerobo-Ip will evaluate your health, discuss your medical history and assess your face.  Your overall goals will be discussed and a recommendation will be based on this information.  It is important that you notify the dermatologist of any medications you are taking as well as of any allergies, skin issues or illnesses.  Botox® is suitable for people of all ages but is not for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.  Botox® informational materials will be provided during this visit and the techniques will be described in detail.  If you have any questions this is an excellent time to ask them.

The Procedure

Botox® procedures generally only take about 20 minutes and are non-surgical so there is no anesthesia required.  The needles used to inject the neurotoxin are very small and thin, and as such, pain is minimal. You will be asked to move certain facial muscles to determine the best points to inject Botox®.  Injections will be made directly into the muscles at several points in the area being treated.  If you are sensitive to pain we can use a topical anesthetic cream to numb the area.

Post Procedure

Patients routinely continue with most normal daily activities after the procedure.  However, I do not recommend that you get a massage right after the procedure, as pressure on the face can displace the product from the original injection site. I also recommend avoiding facials and Clarisonic brushes immediately post procedure. It is ok to resume these activities 24 hours post procedure. Occasionally, there may be some slight discomfort, redness or bruising at the injection site but this should not last more than an hour after treatment.  Results will not be immediate but you can expect to see smoother skin within a few days, and results will last up to 4 months.  Repeat treatments will be required to maintain your youthful appearance and to prevent wrinkles from returning.  Dr. Ip will discuss repeat treatments during your visit.

Cost

The cost of treatment will vary depending on your individual goals and needs.  Costs will be discussed during your initial consultation.  However, the usual range is $300-800 depending on the number of units used. For the average woman, looking to treat her entire forehead I would budget roughly $500.

Visit www.vibrantdermatolgoy.com to schedule an appointment with Dr. Imahiyerobo-Ip.  Be sure to join the Beauty Club and Referral Program for a chance to win free Botox®!

For more information about Botox® : http://www.botoxcosmetic.com

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Are you using your skin care products in the best order?  There are SO MANY products out there for smoothing, plumping, minimizing, moisturizing, and more.  It’s tough to figure out exactly what your skin needs, not to mention that each product should be used in an order that will provide the best benefit.

Always start with a gentle cleanse.  In the evening, I suggest using an eye makeup remover and then washing with luke-warm water and a gentle cleanser.  Once your skin is clean you are ready to start applying products.

My general advice for any skin care routine is to start light and work your way up to the heavier products.  Specifically:

• Serum(s) – These tend to be on the lighter side and will be most effective if applied first.  There are a variety of serums on the market that do everything from reduce wrinkles, target dryness, firm & tone, and smooth skin.  Pick a few that target your concerns and use in combination.  I really like the Hydrostem antioxidant serum from Hydropeptide.
• Moisturizer – To really seal in those serums for the maximum benefit, next up is your moisturizer.  Keep this product light so that you don’t start to look too greasy.  Oils can be added on top of your moisturizer if you want an extra boost of radiance (but keep it light!).
• In the morning, be sure to add a light sun-screen on top.  It’s important to have a layer of protection from UV Rays, even if you won’t be outside all day long.
  • A good way to save steps is get a combined moisturizer with sunscreen. I like Cerave am Lotion because it combines a great moisturizer with an SPF 30 sunscreen
• In the evening, add a retinol to your routine.  These help to unclog pores, boost collagen to reduce fine lines, and speed cell turnover to even out discoloration and smooth the skin.  Prescription strength Retinoids are very popular, and this is what I use personally, but there are also some great over-the-counter options.  Strivectin or Olay ProX have good retinol based night creams.

If you have any medication that is applied to the skin, this will always go on first. Be sure to let each product soak in for a minute or two before moving on to the next so that they have adequate time to penetrate.

With consistency and the right mix of products your skin should look great and not feel too greasy.  Experiment with what works best for your skin and be sure to call your dermatologist if you think your products aren’t cutting it.

I love sharing skin tips and beauty advice through my blog and social media.  Be sure to join my Beauty Club for the latest news (and to be entered to win some great products). 

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They say that what you eat is what you are and this is 100 percent true.  I am constantly planning out our family meals to ensure adequate nutrition but the dermatologist in me cannot resist incorporating vitamin-rich food that will leave my skin looking great as well.  Antioxidants that help to prevent age spots, wrinkling, sagging and UV damage are found in a variety of foods.  A few of my favorites include:

Lycopene – Commonly found in red fruits and vegetables (red peppers, watermelon, tomatoes, pink grapefruit), Lycopene has anti-inflammatory powers and is an antioxidant that can neutralize the effect of harmful free radicals which will help minimize wrinkles and lines.

Beta-carotene – Find this in orange vegetables and leafy greens (carrots, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, cantaloupe, spinach, kale, collard greens, and romaine lettuce).  Beta-carotene is a carotenoid which will help delay the effects of sun-induced aging by slowing down the effects of skin breakdown.

Flavonoids – Enjoy your berries, onions, tea (green, black, or white, non-herbal), and dark chocolate, Flavonoids offer a powerful boost to the immune system and provide anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and anti-cancer properties by protecting against oxidative and free radical damage.

Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) – We all know that vitamin C is one of the first things you turn to when you have a cold but its antioxidant properties also help protect against UV rays and can help keep skin firm with collagen synthesis.  Look for Vitamin C in oranges, papaya, kiwifruit, strawberries, red peppers, Brussels sprouts, kale, and broccoli.

Vitamin E – Found in nuts, eggs, green leafy vegetables, avocados and whole grains, Vitamin E is one of the most powerful antioxidants, but your body can’t produce it.  Make sure you are getting enough of this valuable antioxidant in your diet to help your skin stay healthier and supple.

At the end of the day, nothing beats a balanced diet!  One quick and easy way to incorporate a lot of great antioxidants is to mix up a smoothie to enjoy with your breakfast.  One of my favorites is below (my kids love it too!).

Berry Protein Smoothie

Serves 2

1 cup of mixed frozen organic berries

1 banana

1 cup of spinach

4 TBSP of ground flaxmeal

2 Scoops of Vega Berry flavored vegan protein powder

2 Cups of Filtered Water

Add everything to your blender and blend until smooth

Want more healthy eating tips & recipes to help you look and feel your best?  Join my Beauty Club and be notified when I have news, skin tips and promotions to share!

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