Biohacking Part 2: Skin Food
Biohacking Part 2: Skin Food

Biohacking Part 2: Skin Food

SKIN IS A REFLECTION OF INTERNAL HEALTH

Welcome to part 2 of The Narcyssists biohacking series where we will be diving into how nutrition and food affects your skin health.

We've said it before and we'll say it again, your skin is a reflection of your internal health. The best thing you can do for a clear complexion is making sure you eat a varied, non-processed diet of whole foods. But read on for some nutrition tips and supplements that have shown extra benefit.

FEED YOUR SKIN

Healthy skin is not just about what you put on, it's also about what you put in. Certain nutrients you consume can work behind the scenes to keep your skin firm, clear, and resilient. Make your diet as much part of your skincare routine as the bathroom shelf with these tips:
  • Blueberries: are packed with antioxidants but especially vitamin C, which boosts collagen production creating a clear and firmer complexion.
  • Spinach & Carrots: have Beta-carotene (vitamin A) which aids with skin renewal. You may have heard that eating too much carrot can give you a "natural tan," and while this is true it's more of an orange hue...
  • Almonds: Contain vitamin E, which defends your skin from UV damage and dryness by strengthening your skin barrier.
  • Salmon: Can reduce inflammation and fight dryness by improving moisture retention through it's high content Omega-3 fatty acids content.
  • Pumpkin seeds: Contains zinc which helps prevent breakouts by regulating oil production and helping the skin heal faster
For the advanced skincare learners out there, you’ll notice many of these nutrients also show up in serums and moisturizers. Vitamin C for brightness, vitamin E for protection, omega-rich oils for barrier repair etc. But way they work topically is different from how they work in your diet, targeting the skin directly where it needs it most. Because nutrients you eat are absorbed and distributed systemically, they’re shared across your whole body, not funnelled straight to your skin. The best results? They come from doing both! Nourishing your skin from the inside and reinforcing it from the outside.

WTF IS A COLLAGEN SUPPLEMENT?

Collagen is the protein scaffolding that keeps skin firm and elastic but our natural production slows as we age. Collagen powders and bone broth have been hyped lately as they promise to top us up from within but is it true?

Ever since collagen supplements took off, dermatologists called it a scam, arguing the molecules are too big to survive digestion and are distributed systemically rather than sent straight to your skin. Lately, though, some observational studies, and a few dermatologists online suggest it might help.
 
The theory is even once broken down, collagen peptides and amino acids may signal your body to boost its own collagen production, improving hydration and elasticity in your skin over time. It’s no miracle cure, and quality matters: hydrolyzed collagen from reputable sources is best. If you try it, think of it as a complement to, not a replacement for, a balanced diet, sun protection, and a good topical routine.

We wouldn't recommend breaking the bank over it, but if you notice any benefits it doesn't hurt to throw in a scoop in your morning coffee or start the day with bone broth!

WHAT TO AVOID?

 While the list above can be generalised for almost anyone, when it comes to things to avoid it gets a bit trickier. We all have different sensitivities and react differently to intake.  In general we're not about restrictions here at Narcyss, so see these more as suggestion, but here are some common and broad recommendations from dermatologists:

Refined Sugar: A shock to absolutely no one.  Sodas, candy, and pastries spikes blood sugar, triggering inflammation that leads to collagen breakdown. All of this can increase wrinkles. 

Trans Fats: Found in fried fast food and processed snacks also promote inflammation and may weaken the skin’s barrier function.

Excess Alcohol: We're the first people to say it's okay to have a negroni and then do some yoga, life is about balance. Don'tBut in excess, drinking over time can dehydrate your skin and constrict blood flow. But no need to take it to the extreme, alcohol has a time and place in our lives.

High-Sodium Foods: Found in instant noodles, chips, and processed meats cause water retention and puffiness, especially around the eyes. If you wake up puffy this is likely why.

Dairy (for some people): Found in milk, cheese, and whey protein — can trigger oil production and breakouts in acne-prone skin. This tends to be highly personal and if you're unsure, try going lactose free for a bit.

 

OUR STORY

Narcyss is a wellness brand for the modern citizen that is inclusive, aspirational and inspirational. We believe it’s ok to enjoy a Negroni or two at dinner and to do yoga in the morning, it’s ok to get high and go running when you come down, it’s ok to do what you can to age in a healthy way, not in an ”anti” way. The Narcyss philosophy of “a life well lived”, modern wellness and healthy ageing is a welcome perspective in the beauty industry.

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OUR STORY

Narcyss is a wellness brand for the modern citizen that is inclusive, aspirational and inspirational. We believe it’s ok to enjoy a Negroni or two at dinner and to do yoga in the morning, it’s ok to get high and go running when you come down, it’s ok to do what you can to age in a healthy way, not in an ”anti” way. The Narcyss philosophy of “a life well lived”, modern wellness and healthy ageing is a welcome perspective in the beauty industry.

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