All About Avocados
Avocados are high in omega-9 fats and they have a high oleic content. This type of monounsaturated fat maintains moisture in the epidermis and keeps skin hydrated and supple. Omega-9 supplements are even prescribed by dermatologists to help patients with irritation and dryness—but, if you can, it’s always better to eat your vitamins. This skin-moisturizing fat does you more good from the inside out (eating an avocado is more beneficial that moisturizing your skin with avocado oil) and eating an avocado every other day will help to keep your skin soft.
Fatty Fish
The omega-3 fats in oily fish like salmon are also very moisturizing. Omega-3 fats cause the body to produce anti-inflammatory compounds that help counter skin issues such as eczema and psoriasis. An added bonus is that oily fish also contain Vitamin E, a vitamin many of us are deficient in. Vitamin E protects the skin against free radicals.
Egg Yolks are no Joke
Egg, particularly the yolks, provide heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. The monounsaturated fats help maintain the water level in the epidermis while the polyunsaturated fats supply ceramides (the building blocks of skin cells) which keep skin looking youthful. In addition, eggs provide biotin, Vitamin D, and Vitamin A—all essentials to having glowing skin.
Nuts for Nuts (and Coconuts)
Nuts and seeds, like eggs, are loaded with poly and monounsaturated fats that make skin supple and smooth. Coconuts contain saturated fats (solid at room temperature) which are full of lauric and capric acid—key ingredients for glowing skin.
You’ll note that all of the fats on this list come from whole, natural foods. Keep this in mind when searching for your fatty skin-fix: when you’re eating real food, you don’t have to feel bad about the fat!