Wearing SPF and protective clothing are not enough to prevent sun damage to the neck. The body too needs self-defense against attack from within and also the environment. The following seven foods offer defense mechanism from sun damage by providing healing from inside and outside and strengthen your UV defenses.
1. Omega-3 fatty acid -Salmon fish
Salmon fish is a significant source of Omega-3 fatty acids. The fish oils are vital for protecting the skin from sunburn and DNA changes that lead to cancer. Omega-3 rich salmon assist the outer layer of the skin to resist UV radiation by preventing cell breakout. Salmon fish also contains eicosapentaenoic acid a compound that increases the time you will take to get a burn when you expose your skin to the sun.
2. Broccoli
It is a vegetable with a high amount of polyphenol that is a plant based compound responsible for regulating the oxidative stress, your immune system, and inflammation. Recent research reveals the broccoli sprouts protects against cancer. Another strong broccoli component is called Sulphorane that supports skin defense system and halts cell growth resulting from UV light.
3. Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes contain vitamin C, which is an important antioxidant in your body. It vegetable and when included in your diet gives protection from UV rays. There is a different variety which you can identify from their colors such as yellow, orange and pink. Sweet potatoes have a high concentration of beta-carotene and promote the synthesis of hyaluronic acid which is a unique protein that your body produces. The particular acid helps your body look smooth and soft. The acid also helps the body to produce a powerful anti-wrinkle substance as the body ages.
4. Carrots
Eating a diet rich in carrots provides the body with beta-carotene. Reduces sunburn intensity. Carrots are also vegetables with potent antioxidants that help in maintaining healthy skin. Beta carotene in carrots assists in fighting free radicals that cause damage to the skin. Beta carotene also supports the skin from dangerous UV radiation by protecting the body from excess UV rays and sunburn. It is important to include regularly it in your diet. You can eat it raw, in juice form or cooked. It is an added shield, not a reason to forfeit using sunscreens.
5. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are common in our gardens and local markets. Many people have no idea that they are important in protecting them from sunburn and the effects of the UV. It might give a reason to indulge in tomatoes eating if you had no interest at all. It contains a compound called lycopene that gives your skin a natural protection from the sun damage. You can eat it raw in salads or blend to form juice. You can also cook it, but this may make it lose it nutritive value. Tomatoes also contain vitamin C.
6. Green Tea
It contains catechins which are molecules belonging to flavonoid family which protects the skin from UV rays. It also has antioxidant properties that support the skin to become softer and even tone. That is why many sunscreen products adopt green tea as one of the ingredients of it sun's protection ability. Green tea reduces redness and inflammation on the skin after UV exposure. You only need 2 cups of green tea in a day.
7. Almond Oil
Almond exists in seeds which you can chew. You can also get drink almond milk which is an extract from almond seed. The seeds or juice is rich in vitamins E and B as well as other vital minerals. Almond is a potent antioxidant that protects the skin from the UV rays and makes it smooth and supple. It also allows the building of omega 6 and nine fatty acids both help to build healthy immune system and promotes cell development.
Conclusion
Due to the nutritional profile of the seven foods above they can protect your skin from the harmful UV rays and premature aging. It is not a replacement for SPF or sunscreen product but to increase the skins ability to protect itself from within and without. Remember to eat fresh and organic foods to benefit.
Foods and SPFs are not the only way to protect your skin from sun damage. Change your lifestyle as well. Drink enough water and water to hydrate the skin when you are in the sun. Smoking and alcohol also deplete water in our system leaving the skin dry and exposure of dry skin to the sun may promote skin damage. Prepare the foods hygienically to avoid contamination that may lead to bacterial attacks. Develop a skin care routine to complement the diet so as to help in replacing the dead cells. Enjoy eating food but not in excess quantities believing that too much of it will protect you. Eat in moderation.
References:
https://www.glozine.com/lifestyle/health/causes-of-dark-spot-and-treatment.html
https://www.consumerhealthdigest.com/neck-care-center/sun-damage-on-neck.html
https://www.solvaderm.com/blog/sun-damage.html