With the contribution of Laura Chacon-GarbatoHerbalife Director, Worldwide Nutrition Education and Training and certified beautician.
Summer can wreak havoc on your skin, making it appear dull, dry and blemished. Herbalife, a leading company in the wellness sector, explains how a balanced diet, intake of vitamins and antioxidants, keeping the body hydrated, daily use of SPF and other precautions can help improve and protect the appearance of our skin .
Healthy-looking skin is easily recognized by its luminosity. In summer, however, we spend more time outdoors, exposing our skin to various external aggressions such as the sun, chlorine, salt, wind, sand and high temperatures. All this can stress the skin, making it more vulnerable to photo-aging. Here are some tips for keeping your skin glowing, especially during the summer months:
1. Consume an adequate amount of protein
Protein can be added to your diet from sources such as chicken, meat, fish, soy or tofu, but protein shakes are also a great way to increase your protein intake. From Herbalife, valid help to increase protein intake comes from:
Protein Drink Mix Vegan, ultra-creamy with a delicate vanilla flavour. 100% vegan, rich in protein, gluten-free, sugar-free and naturally lactose-free, to be taken mid-morning or mid-afternoon. Each two-scoop serving contains 15 grams of quality protein and 22 key vitamins and minerals. As an alternative, you can also add it to your favorite Formula 1 smoothie, for an extra protein boost! Each pack contains 20 servings. (Price: €66.39.)
High Protein Iced Coffee flavor Latte Macchiato is a fresh and nutritious drink, a fusion of coffee – thanks to the coffee powder from 100% Robusta beans – and proteins, suitable for any time of the day. Formulated with 15 grams of quality whey protein, no added sugar and 80 mg of caffeine per serving, it can be enjoyed at home or on the go. Simply fill a shaker cup with 250ml of cold water, shake the bag gently before each use and add approximately 2 measuring spoons of High Protein Iced Coffee (22g). All you have to do is shake and pour over ice or, if you don’t have a shaker cup, blend at low speed, it only takes 5 seconds! Each bag contains 14 servings. (Price: €67.01.)
2. The Importance of Phytonutrients
While proteins are essential for maintaining healthy skin, antioxidants and phytonutrients are also essential for skin and overall health. In fact, some plant substances accumulate in the skin and enhance the antioxidant defense mechanism of skin cells. Make sure your summer diet includes fruits like blueberries, strawberries and apples, and vegetables like broccoli, spinach, tomatoes and cabbage.
Phyto Complete by Herbalife contains Vitamin C which contributes to the normal formation of collagen for the normal function of the skin. Contains Fiit-NSTM, whose effectiveness has been scientifically studied. It is a patented combination of fruit and vegetable polyphenols based on green tea extract – leaves (Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze), guarana seed extract (Paullinia cupana Kunth), grape seed and peel extract (Vitis vinifera L.), grapefruit extract – fruit (Citrus paradisi Macfad.), black carrot root extract (Daucus carota L.). Polyphenols are the generic name of a class of phytonutrients that defines a variety of substances produced by plants. Phyto Complete also contains Vitamin B3 (Niacin) which contributes to normal energy metabolism and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue and Chromium, which contributes to the normal metabolism of macronutrients and the maintenance of normal blood glucose levels. One pack contains 60 capsules and the recommended consumption is 2 per day, always during meals. (Price: €79.66.)
3. Collagen consumption
Aging has a negative effect on the skin’s connective tissue, which can lead to the decline of elastin and collagen fibers while increasing fine lines and wrinkles.
Collagen Skin with strawberry and lemon flavor is a targeted nutrition for the skin that comes from Herbalife. In addition to the well-known benefits brought by collagen, it is rich in vitamins and minerals to contribute not only to the well-being of the skin, but also that of the hair and nails [1]. It is a product based on Verisol® P: source of bioactive pure collagen peptides, derived from type I and III collagen, whose ability to reduce eye wrinkles and improve skin elasticity has been scientifically proven and the first results they are visible already after four weeks. From the age of 25 onwards, Collagene Skin is a valid support for taking care of the skin every day, always as part of a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. To take it correctly, simply dissolve one scoop (5.7 g) of product in 250 ml of water and consume it once a day during a meal. (Price: €77.04).
4. Hydrate your body
Activities carried out during the summer months can lead to a significant loss of water and electrolytes. It is essential to keep your body hydrated. Don’t leave home without a cooler full of hydrating drinks and foods. Plain water is fine, but adding a flavoring or fresh fruit to cold water strengthens the flavor and may encourage you to drink more often. Don’t forget that eating fruit is also an excellent way to stay hydrated. It is essential to avoid sugary drinks, such as sodas. Use a product with sun protection factor (SPF) daily.
Relaxing in the sun is one of the most enjoyable moments of summer and the last thing you want is to end up with a bad sunburn at the end of the day. Try to use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF value of 15 or higher to protect your skin during routine exposure. If you are out in the sun all day, you should consider stronger protection. It’s important to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going out, to give your skin the time it needs to get the most benefit from the product. It is necessary to apply the product every two hours to prevent the effect of the sunscreen from reducing.
For smooth skin protected from UVA/UVB rays, Herbalife SKIN Moisturizing Cream SPF 30 (50 ml) offers long-lasting hydration. Specially created to hydrate and protect the skin from harmful UV rays, it is formulated with a delicate blend of Vitamins B3 (Niacinamide), C and E, Aloe vera and macadamia oil. Apply generously to the skin 15 minutes before exposing yourself to the sun. (Price: €58.15).
Self-care and a balanced diet can promote healthy skin. It’s the best way to look and feel good. If you nourish your body with the right foods and nutrients, your body will thank you and so will your skin!
[1] Biotin, Iodine, Vitamin A and Zinc contribute to the maintenance of normal skin. Biotin, Selenium and Zinc contribute to the maintenance of normal hair. Selenium and Zinc contribute to the maintenance of normal nails.