Facial rejuvenation treatments continue to be popular alternatives to face lift surgery and other procedures that involve incisions and long periods of downtime.  These facial cosmetic procedures can help clear up acne scars, buff away fine lines and even plump up wrinkles after a series of treatments. Popular skin rejuvenation procedures include intense pulsed light therapy (IPL), blue light acne treatments and laser skin resurfacing and can help stop the clock and even reverse the signs of aging. 

Still, taking care of the skin and maintaining good health are essential for long-lasting results; since the skin can be fairly traumatized after the procedure, eating the right foods and making sure the skin has enough time to recover can reduce the risk of sun damage and keep your skin looking healthy and youthful. 

Dr. Peter D’Adamo, the author of Eat Right for Your Type explains the chemical reactions that occur after eating certain foods, and how this effects the blood and cells. Eating foods that fit your cellular profile and support healthy cell growth and regeneration are essential for healing and keeping your skin looking fresh, healthy and strong. Foods that can help make skin more resilient and heal faster include:

1. Above-ground green leafy vegetables. Green vegetables such as spinach and kale are rich in antioxidants and help preserve your immune system. Antioxidants are important for health skin and cell growth, and are good for balancing out any diet.

2. Whole grains. Carbohydrates are essential for energy, but eating the right type of carbohydrates can make a difference in how your skin looks and feels. High glycemic carbohydrates – those that turn into sugar quickly and cause a rapid rise in blood sugar – may be linked to frequent breakouts and skin imbalances. Eating more whole-grain carbs reduces the risk of this sugar spike so that blood sugar levels remain steady – and also lowers the risk of a breakout.

3. Drinking 8-12 glasses of water. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water per day can keep the skin looking clear because water helps flush out toxins and waste from the body. If these toxins become trapped in the body for too long, they may be pushed out through the pores of the skin – and result in a breakout or flushed skin.

4. Omega-3 supplements. Omega-3s are a healthy fat that can improve the texture and tone of your skin over time. These healthy fats can make skin stronger and more resilient, and may help cells create a protective barrier against the elements.  These supplements are often a part of anti aging supplementation programs because they also promote healthy hair and nail growth.

5. Legumes and nuts. Both of these foods are valuable sources of protein, and contain several nutrients and vitamins not found in everyday foods. Legumes and nuts can easily be added to side dishes and salads, and can help fortify your diet with any missing nutrients. These are also essential for healthy hair and nails.  

Eating a diet rich in unprocessed and refined foods can also offset many skin imbalances, and help maintain the results of your skin rejuvenation program. Learn more about facial rejuvenation treatments in our information guide, or consult with an anti aging specialist in your area for treatment options and diet tips after treatment.