The ‘5 a Day’ That Will Keep Your Skin Clear and Looking Younger
As the weather warms up, we’re turning to lighter foods… Rebecca Elsdon, Skin Expert and founder of RE/Skin Clinic (www.reskinclinic.co.uk) shares the 5 a Day fruit and veg that will keep your skin clear, reduce puffiness and keep you looking younger.
1. Watermelon – Minimises Pores & Keeps Skin Clear
Watermelon is incredibly hydrating, made up of over 90% water, which helps to keep the skin plump and flush out toxins that can clog pores. It’s also rich in antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin C, which protect against environmental stressors and support collagen synthesis. Watermelon’s natural astringent properties help tighten the skin, reducing the appearance of large pores and keeping breakouts at bay.
2. Potato Peels – Fade Acne Scars & Dark Spots
Potato peels are a hidden gem for skin healing. They contain catecholase, an enzyme known to brighten skin and lighten pigmentation. This makes them particularly effective at reducing the appearance of acne scars, dark spots, and even out pigmentation. They also have mild anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that support clearer skin.
3. Dates – Cleanse Skin, Improve Complexion, Target Acne & Blackheads
Dates are rich in vitamin A, niacin (B3), and zinc, all of which contribute to skin detoxification and regeneration. Their high fibre content helps regulate digestion—a major contributor to hormonal balance and clear skin. Zinc plays a critical role in reducing acne-causing inflammation and regulating oil production, while vitamin A supports faster skin turnover.
4. Lemon Balm – Reduce Facial Puffiness & Support Fat Loss
Lemon balm is technically a herb, not a fruit, but it’s a fantastic ally for reducing facial puffiness. It has natural diuretic and anti-inflammatory effect that help eliminate excess fluid retention in the face. It also supports the lymphatic system, which plays a role in detoxifying the skin. Additionally, lemon balm helps reduce cortisol levels, which is linked to both stubborn fat and skin aging.
5. Banana Oil – Revive Greying Hair & Promote Scalp Health
While banana oil (often extracted from banana peels or made by infusing oil with banana essence) is more commonly used in haircare, it has nourishing benefits for the scalp that can indirectly improve skin health by reducing inflammation and dryness around the hairline. Bananas contain biotin, potassium, and antioxidants that help nourish hair follicles and may slow the appearance of premature greying and scalp aging.
While each of these fruits offer their own individual benefits, however used as a standalone solution may not reap the results without the help of other contributing factors. It’s important to remember they work best as part of a holistic approach to skin health. True, lasting skin transformation rely on a combination of factors, including lifestyle, health, stress management, sleeping habits and a consistent skincare regime tailored to the skin’s individual needs.
Rebecca Elsdon, founder of re/skin Clinic, is a Skin Expert with a breadth of skin health and wellbeing knowledge and a specialism in treating problematic skin. (https://reskinclinic.co.uk/)
Frequently recognised by the beauty industry as one of the UK’s leading skin health clinics, Rebecca has built re/skin into a trusted destination for many, including their celebrity clientele. Rebecca’s 20 year career in the beauty and skin industry gives her an unrivalled expertise and insight that she frequently shares with the media and industry collaborators. Rebecca is also a Brand Ambassador for Dermaviduals, a leading tailored skincare solution.