Shielding skin from tanning: Sunscreen alone isn’t sufficient

Experts list skin-friendly foods to consume to prevent harmful rays of the sun from wreaking havoc

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Tan lines are almost unavoidable during scorching summers. In the months April to June, the sun is so harsh that your skin tans very easily. While sunscreen is a necessity, more so during this time of the year, there are a few dietary tweaks as well that can help too!

When it comes to skin health, diet plays an important role. “The sun has some harmful effects on the skin. The rising temperature calls for special protection from the sun and only using a sun block is not enough. There are certain foods that can help repair UV damage caused to the skin and offer protection from the sun,” observes Dr Rinky Kapoor, consultant dermatologist, cosmetic dermatologist and dermato-surgeon,

All kinds of citrus fruits:

Vitamin C is a boon for your skin. And when it comes to protecting your skin from UVA and UVB rays, it tops the list, according to Dr Kapoor. Vitamin C can also help manage various skin issues such as loose skin, hyperpigmentation, pimples, dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles. Foods such as oranges, lemon, strawberries, blueberries, kiwi and sweet lemon are rich sources of vitamin C and antioxidants, which can fight free radicals and repair the skin to give a healthy glow. So, make sure you stock up on vitamin C!

Pomegranate: The tiny red jewels are rich in ellagic acid, anthocyanins and tannins that can keep free radicals away and help in restoring the glow of the skin.

Sweet potato: Sweet potatoes are a potent skin damage fighter, for they are rich in starch and beta carotene that reduces the harm of sunburn and sun tanning.

Cauliflower: It is a very powerful defence against oxidative stress and contains histidine that absorbs UV radiation.

Watermelon: This is a fruit largely consumed to stay hydrated. But, according to Dr Kapoor, this fruit can also provide protection from sun tanning and can keep your skin hydrated. It contains lycopene and vitamin C that will cool down your skin too and can give you soft, glowing skin.

Carrot: They are rich in betacarotene, lycopene and vitamin C, which combine together to form a very strong defence against sun damage, and premature ageing.

Nuts and seeds: A solution to many issues, nuts and seeds even protect against sunburn and inflammation. They are also said to help fight skin cancer.

So, try incorporating these sun-loving foods for sun protection from the inside and an added glow. But also, make sure that you use sunscreen every time you step out of the house.

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