Although applying a moisturizing cream rich in beneficial elements may seem like the first solution, dry patches often return quickly, indicating that diet plays a bigger role in skin health than the usual care routine.
Majed Hussain, co-founder of the personalized dermatology prescription service, suggests that avocados may be the perfect solution to combat dryness and cracking in winter.
Hussein says: "Diet plays an important role in keeping the skin in its best condition, and keeping it hydrated and locking in moisture is crucial to prevent dryness and damage."
He adds: “Avocados are a superfood for skin health because they contain antioxidants, enhance skin elasticity, and combat signs of aging. They are also rich in nutrients such as monounsaturated fats, vitamins A, C, and E, and potassium, all of which help protect the skin from dryness and cracking.”
Registered nutritionist Louise Payne confirms that avocados strengthen the skin's lipid barrier, the protective layer that retains moisture, thus reducing the flaking and dryness common in winter. The monounsaturated fats also help the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A, E, and K, which play a vital role in skin health.
Vitamin E adds antioxidant properties that reduce the effect of oxidative stress that the skin is exposed to daily as a result of harmful environmental factors such as pollution and ultraviolet radiation.
According to the UK's National Health Service, women need about 3 mg of vitamin E daily, while men need 4 mg. A medium-sized avocado can help you meet this requirement.
A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology indicated that 39 women who ate an avocado daily for eight weeks experienced increased elasticity and firmness of their forehead skin compared to a control group.
Louise explains: "While more research is needed, the results suggest that eating avocados regularly may support skin structure from within. Perhaps even better is how easily they can be incorporated into the diet, whether in salads, on toast, or in smoothies."
