Page 32 - May-June 2025 Life In Naples Magazing

Radiant Summer Skin –

a Functional Approach

by Svetlana Kogan, M.D.
ummer is all about Vitamin C: Supports collagen production
sunshine, beach and helps fade sunspots.
Sdays, and outdoor Vitamin E: Acts as a powerful skin barrier
adventures. But let’s protector.
be real—while we love Astaxanthin: This carotenoid is a game-
soaking up the sun, our changer for sun defense and skin hydration.
skin might not always Beta-Carotene: Found in carrots, sweet
feel the same way. Sun potatoes, and spinach, this nutrient helps
exposure, heat, and reduce sunburn risk.
environmental stressors Zinc: Plays a crucial role in skin repair and
can take a toll, leading to dryness, premature acts as a mild natural sunscreen.
aging, and even sun damage. Polyphenols: Found in green tea, dark
The good news? There’s so much more chocolate, and berries, these compounds help
to sun protection than just slathering on fight oxidative stress from UV exposure.
sunscreen. Functional medicine takes a holistic Making these nutrients a regular part
approach to skin health, focusing on internal of your diet can provide a natural layer of
nourishment, smart lifestyle choices, and natural remedies. protection and enhance your skin’s ability to repair itself.
Let’s dive into how you can protect and heal your skin from Healing Sun Damage Naturally:
the inside out this summer. Even with the best prevention strategies, sometimes sunburns and
Beyond Sunscreen: The Functional Medicine Approach to Sun skin damage happen. Here are some useful natural healing remedies
Protection: to keep on hand for that:
Sunscreen is essential, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Aloe Vera: The Ultimate Soother
Functional medicine looks at skin health from a whole-body Aloe vera is nature’s cooling remedy for sunburn. It hydrates,
perspective, emphasizing prevention, nourishment, and repair. Here reduces inflammation, and speeds up healing. Use fresh aloe gel or a
are some extra ways to shield your skin from UV damage naturally: high-quality, organic aloe vera gel for the best results.
Load Up on Antioxidants: Antioxidants act like an internal Green Tea Compress
sunscreen, helping to neutralize free radicals caused by UV Green tea is packed with polyphenols that reduce redness and
exposure. Eating a diet rich in antioxidants can strengthen your inflammation. Brew some green tea, let it cool, soak a cloth in it, and
skin’s defense system: apply it to sunburned skin for instant relief.
Vitamin C (found in citrus fruits, bell peppers, and strawberries) Coconut Oil for Deep Moisturization
helps boost collagen production and reduce sunburn severity. While coconut oil isn’t a sunburn cure, it does help restore
Vitamin E (in nuts, seeds, and avocados) supports skin healing moisture and prevent peeling. Apply it after initial redness subsides
and prevents oxidative stress. to help nourish damaged skin.
Astaxanthin, a powerhouse antioxidant found in wild salmon Hydration and Antioxidant Support.
and algae, has been shown to enhance skin resilience against After too much sun exposure, support your skin from the inside
UV damage. by drinking plenty of water and eating antioxidant-rich foods like
Hydrate Like a Pro: Sun exposure and heat can dehydrate your berries, leafy greens, and citrus fruits.
skin, making it more prone to damage. Prioritize water-rich foods DIY Oatmeal and Yogurt Mask
like cucumbers, watermelon, and leafy greens while also drinking For cooling relief, mix oatmeal with plain yogurt and apply it to
plenty of pure water. sunburned skin. Oatmeal calms irritation, while yogurt’s probiotics
“Eat Your SPF”: Certain foods have natural sun-protective support skin healing.
properties. Tomatoes and watermelon contain lycopene, which has Final Thoughts:
been shown to reduce skin sensitivity to UV rays. Green tea is rich Your skin is your body’s first line of defense against the elements,
in polyphenols that help combat sun-induced inflammation. and summer can be especially tough on it. By taking a functional
Support Your Skin with Omega-3s: Omega-3 fatty acids (found medicine approach—nourishing from within, using natural remedies,
in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts) help keep your skin hydrated and being mindful of your sun exposure—you can keep your skin
and resilient. They also play a role in reducing inflammation caused radiant and healthy all season long.
by UV exposure. As you enjoy those sunny days, remember:
Nutrients for Healthy Summer Skin: Eat your antioxidants, stay hydrated, protect wisely, and if your
Want that glowing, radiant summer skin?
The key lies in your diet. What you put on your plate directly affects skin does get a little too much love from the sun, nature has your
your skin’s ability to protect and heal itself. Here are some of the back with gentle, effective healing solutions.
best nutrients to focus on: Here’s to glowing, resilient summer skin!

The author of ‘Diet Slave No More!’, Svetlana Kogan, M.D. is a Board-Certified Internal Medicine,
Holistic & Functional Medical Doctor with 25 years of experience.
Her website is CustomLongevity.com Office Phone: 239-676-6883

3232 www.LifeInNaples.net