As the weather begins to warm up for many of us, there is often a renewed focus on the skin. It is interesting that the global skincare industry is now worth billions, but I am always more concerned with what is going on internally.
The reason is that the skin is often one of the first places where internal changes begin to show. These changes are not always dramatic, but more often than not they are reflecting what is happening beneath the surface.
So while it is important to consider how we protect the skin externally, it is also worth looking more closely at what may help support it from the inside out.
Astaxanthin And Skin Under Increasing Exposure
As we spend more time outdoors, whether through travel, exercise or simply longer days, the skin is naturally exposed to higher levels of environmental stress.
This is where certain nutrients are receiving increasing attention.
Astaxanthin is one of the compounds that continues to come up in this area. It is a carotenoid found in marine organisms such as algae and salmon, and has been studied in relation to skin health, particularly in the context of oxidative stress and how the skin responds to environmental exposure.
Some research has explored how it may support the skin’s response to UV exposure. It is often taken in advance of and during the warmer months, although really we can benefit from year-round use.
However, this is not about replacing external protection, but about recognising a broader shift towards supporting the skin from within, alongside what is applied on the surface.
Sometimes It Still Comes Back To Basics
Alongside this, it is worth remembering that there are many foods that can support the skin and kale is one of them. It is often described as one of nature’s superfoods, and when you look at its nutrient profile, it is easy to see why.
It provides a wide range of compounds, including lutein and zeaxanthin, with levels of over 26mg combined per serving, alongside vitamin C and other nutrients that support skin and cellular health.
It is a good reminder that while more specialised nutrients continue to gain attention, some of the most effective support is still coming from foods that are all around us.
Closing
While external care still plays a role, there is increasing recognition that supporting the body from within is just as important.
If you would like to explore how to protect the skin during the warmer months and beyond, we have covered this in more detail here: Summer Skincare: How to Nourish Your Skin from Within
