Three Ways to Boost a Healthy Complexion Without Skin Whitening Products

Glowing skin is an aspiration strived by many. Fortunately, this is achievable through a good facial care regimen with a healthy lifestyle. While skin whitening products are an easy, quick-fix solution for a dull complexion, what plays a role in healthy and smooth skin lies in what you choose to put in your body and not what you apply on the surface. 

The right nutritional foundation is an important contributor to multiple skin benefits. Rather than relying solely on applying creams, add these foods and ingredients to your daily routine to help achieve the beautiful complexion you seek. 

Vitamin C: A Necessity 

First and foremost, an adequate intake of vitamin C plays a vital part in skin health. It acts as protection from UV exposure and as a combatant of skin-wrinkling and skin-ageing. Sufficient vitamin C is needed to inhibit melanin production from the basal layer of the dermis, giving your skin that glow. You can apply it topically with a serum, for instance, or take it orally, through supplements. Of course, you can obtain vitamin C by eating your fruits and vegetables. The recommended dosage is 1,000 to 3,000mg daily.

Due to its potency, a vitamin C serum may not be for everyone. You should research thoroughly and test with care especially if you have sensitive skin. To forego those risks, the oral way may be more suitable. 

Traditional Chinese Medicine and Skin Whitening

Backed by research and years of history, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and its herbs are conducive to relieving certain conditions – skincare included. 

Continued generation after generation, the ancient method of tea drinking is still effective in maintaining one’s overall health. Having a nice, hot cup of Chinese wolfberries, also known as goji berries (gou qi, 枸杞), with chrysanthemum (ju hua, 菊花), water, and honey would help your skin by boosting collagen and elastin production. Filled with antioxidants, carotenoids, minerals, and amino acids, the tea would also improve blood circulation. It can ease the symptoms of premature ageing too. Goji berries are high in vitamin C and can be consumed in a dessert or made into juice, depending on your preference. 

Another herb consumed and known by many is ginseng root (ren shen, 人参) . It enhances collagen synthesis and helps prevent UV damage and ageing, while brightening the skin. It can be ingested by mixing slices of the root with goji berries and hot water – another worthy recipe to take note of. 

Finally for a healthier complexion without skin whitening products, adding collagen to your diet will give your skin a brighter, more youthful appearance. It can also help repair sun damage. Snow fungus is one example of a mushroom to take. In addition to being rich in collagen, it stops the production of melanin which can cause freckles and uneven skin tone.

Sun Exposure and its Effects 

Living in a tropical country means being blessed with ample sunshine all year round. 

However, exposure to excessive sunlight can destroy your skin barrier, accelerate ageing and lead to the formation of melanin and wrinkles. Hence, applying sunscreen before leaving the house is essential or avoiding peak sun hours altogether. 

While taking note of this, it is good to remember that the sun is also a source of vitamin D. Having 15 to 30 minutes of exposure before 10am is beneficial. It stimulates the skin and enhances the absorption of calcium. It is recommended to choose sunscreens above SPF30 and apply it once every two hours if you’re planning on being outdoors for longer. This habit goes a long way and is recommended by medical professionals to minimise UV ray damage. 

These natural alternatives along with healthy eating habits, sufficient water intake, and ample rest will optimise the chances of improving and maintaining a radiant complexion without skin whitening products. Rather than relying on your go-to products try a natural remedy or two and you might just see a difference.

This is an adaptation of an article, “Be Fair & Lovely with These,” which first appeared on the Eu Yan Sang website.