Fresh fruits and veggies are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that soothe inflammation and clear pores. Antioxidants reduce free radical damage in all areas of the body and help skin look smoother and younger. Vitamins A, C, and E boost skin health, elasticity, and luminosity. And an extra dose of hydration keeps everything glowing and supple.
Mix and match fresh ingredients or add in other antioxidant-rich superfoods to make your own elixirs. When it comes to achieving smooth, radiant skin from natural food nutrients, the flavor combinations are endless.
Plus, natural products such as certain vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients may even help boost your skin’s inherent SPF. But that doesn’t mean you should ditch the sunscreen! Just rest easy knowing that your skin won't parch under the harsh summer sun.
Spicy ACV Lemonade
Raw apple cider vinegar has long been a skin-clearing staple. Like other fermented foods, ACV contains probiotics that work to keep your gut and digestive system healthy. It’s also believed to support the liver function and flush toxins from the body.
And lemon juice is loaded with vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that decreases inflammation. That’s a one-two punch for your skin.
Recipe:
2 cups water
2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
pinch cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon honey
½ lemon juiced
Instructions: Combine everything in a glass, stir, and drink
Watermelon Lime Spritzer
The miracle ingredient in this skin-clearing elixir is lycopene, a phytonutrient found in bright red fruits like watermelon. Lycopene has long been used in acne products because it helps reduce free radicals, soothes inflammation, and provides protection from environmental toxins that can cause breakouts.
Watermelon is also loaded with vitamin A, which encourages collagen and elastin regeneration, so your skin looks youthful and supple.
Recipe:
1.5 cups watermelon
½ lime juiced
2 slices lime
7 leaves mint
3 cups water
Instructions: Combine everything in a blender and puree until smooth. Strain out the solids, and enjoy the juice over ice with extra mint leaves for garnish.
Raspberry Aloe Water
Raspberries are anti-inflammatory powerhouses, thanks to flavonoids known as anthocyanins. They slow the signs of aging and reduce inflammation throughout the entire body—even in your skin.
Rich in fiber, they also improve digestion and encourage the body to expel toxins. A teaspoon of beetroot powder adds blood-boosting vitamins like iron and zinc and helps improve circulation. And hydrating, healing aloe vera is a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins that help protect and repair your skin.
Recipe:
1/4 cup raspberries fresh
½ teaspoon beetroot powder
2 cups coconut water
2 leaves aloe vera
Instructions: 1. Combine the raspberries and beetroot powder in a glass. Use a muddler to mash the berries and incorporate the beetroot powder. 2. Add the coconut water, then place the aloe leaves in the glass cut side down, so some of the juice runs into the glass. Either strain out the berries before drinking, or eat them for added beauty-boosting benefits.