2 Avoid foods that can spoil your skin…

Experts have their personal take on skin-improving foods – some love a plant-based diet, others happily include meat and fish. But most agree on the biggies that we should kick into touch…

SUGAR A killer for the complexion, creating internal inflammation and glycation – where sugar attaches itself to proteins in the skin, causing it to stiffen, wrinkle and age. Need we say more? Look for sugar everywhere!

WHEAT The gluten it contains can mess with the gut and create inflammation in the body, which may in turn create skin problems, such as acne and keratosis pilaris (chicken skin) on arms.

CAFFEINE Ups stress hormones, encouraging your body to pump out insulin, which in turn makes skin produce excess oil and skin cells, which can clog pores.

PROCESSED FOODS Often full of dodgy fats, sugars and gluten – everything your skin doesn’t need. For amazing skin, it’s better to cook and eat fresh ingredients.

ALCOHOL The diuretic supreme, dragging moisture from your skin and leaving it looking dry, grey and discoloured.

And keep an eye on…

DAIRY For some, it’s hard to digest and is often linked with skin problems, such as eczema. Switching to nut milk is easy, but if you love cheese, try having just tiny amounts of fresh cheeses – feta, goats’ or mozzarella.

NIGHTSHADES Most of us can tolerate vegetables from this plant family, but tomatoes, aubergines, peppers (including chillies and spices) and potatoes (but not sweet potatoes) can be a problem for those with skin problems like psoriasis. Try skipping them for three months, then bring back gradually to check your sensitivity.