Incorporating specific foods into your lifestyle has beneficial health properties. They also may enhance your skincare regimen. Ever wonder why the beauty products you use aren’t working? You may need to refocus on the foods you eat to keep your skin looking healthy and young.

Berry Healthy
(Vaccinium Macrocarpon–Cranberry)

Cranberries are packed with antioxidants–perfect for protecting cells from damage and treating infection and bacteria. Cranberry and raspberry enzymes have natural fruit acids that aid in destroying unfriendly bacteria on the skin. You should look for a facial cleanser that contains cranberry enzymes to unclog and minimize pores. Similarly, when consumed, cranberries may increase levels of good cholesterol and destroy bacteria buildup in the urinary tract. Raspberries are rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C, which helps to keep skin glowing, and minimizes dark spots and discoloration due to aging and sun damage.

Try incorporating these powerful berries into a healthy smoothie. Blend unsweetened natural cranberry juice, fresh raspberries, fresh blueberries, non-fat vanilla Greek yogurt, ice and an extra boost of cranberry supplements for a true antioxidant shock! To refine and clarify skin, try Arcona’s Cranberry Gommage to tone and decongest pores in the morning. The salicylic acid with cranberry and raspberry enzymes helps to exfoliate the skin and stimulate circulation. It is best to exfoliate or scrub twice a week to remove dead skin cells; then apply a lightweight lotion to provide protection from daily environmental aggressors. Try Primavera’s Protective Lotion featuring organic cranberry extract and cassis seed oil which protects against damage caused by free radicals.

Poms and Seeds
(Punica Granatum–Pomegranate)

Pomegranate extract and seed oil is extremely rich in antioxidants and protects against free radicals. It is particularly important for mature, dry skin to revitalize and promote graceful aging. Pomegranate tends to stimulate collagen production, which diminishes as we get older. Collagen restores elasticity, increases tone and coloration while diminishing fine lines.

Pomegranate juice has enhanced levels of antioxidants and contains vitamin C, B5, K and Potassium. If you do decide to drink pomegranate juice, be sure to purchase the pure juice without added sugars and mixtures of other juices. When sugar is added to juices, it increases the caloric count and diminishes the health benefits. Only ½ cup of pomegranate seeds contains 72 calories, what a treat! It is recommended that 8 ounces of unsweetened pomegranate juice be consumed daily, to lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL), also known as “bad” cholesterol. This anti-inflammatory super fruit juice can be added to any healthy smoothie as a liquid binder. Try a boost of replenishment after a cardio workout, with a blend of pomegranate juice, fresh berries, banana, almonds, protein powder and ice. Not into shakes? Add fresh pomegranate seeds onto a salad of iron-rich baby spinach, fresh dates, avocado, orange segments and a do-it yourself pomegranate vinaigrette with olive oil, pomegranate juice, balsamic vinegar and fresh pepper.

While feeding your body plenty of nutrients, you must nourish your skin from the outside in. Try incorporating seed oils into your skincare regiment as they contain the essence of plant life and are extremely concentrated. Ensure that the seed oils you select are cold-pressed so that it preserves the nutrients and poly-unsaturated fatty acids that give skin elasticity and glow. It’s a myth that people with oily skin should avoid using oil products with the fear of breakouts. The right seed oil can actually support the skin’s ability to regulate oil production and balance skin conditions. We tend to think that breakouts, blemishes and blackheads only occur during adolescence. Our bodies change throughout our lifetime and we must continue to treat with the appropriate products. Try Primavera’s Revitalizing Rose Pomegranate Intensive Seed Oil Capsules to promote cell turnover, even out redness and reduce broken capillaries. After cleansing at night, open a capsule and massage gently onto the face for an instant natural glow in the morning.

Staying healthy and youthful is an everyday task. Be aware of the foods you eat and the products you use. Fresh, organic, locally grown fruits and vegetables will provide a wealth of nutrients. When choosing skin and body care products, ensure they contain quality natural and organic ingredients. Monthly professional facials combined with an at home-care regimen will help to achieve optimum health inside and out. You only have one face, and one body. It’s never too late to start taking care of both!

Karina Chung is a desert native specializing in creating new spa experiences and working internationally with Hyatt Resorts. Karina has returned to the desert as Spa Director at the Hyatt Grand Champion’s Agua Serena Spa. She is enthusiastic to introduce indigenous products with healing properties and to support local health for both individuals and businesses through this beautiful wellness facility. Contact Karina at 760.674.4100.

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