Meghan Markle’s royally radiant skin has made the whole nation envious. We have asked our experts for their top tips on what we should and shouldn’t be doing in order to achieve that ‘Meghan Markle sparkle’.
1. Goodbye sugar
Don’t waist money on skin care products if you’re not going to care for your skin from within first. Have you noticed that after over-indulging in sugary foods you wake up with a new spotty friend?
“Firstly, sugary and processed foods contain very little vitamins and minerals that nourish and protect the skin. Secondly, sugar and refined carbohydrates (which are quickly absorbed, just like sugar) cause a surge of the hormone insulin, which can then increase your levels of testosterone, which in turn can contribute to breakouts and acne.
“Lastly, high levels of sugar in the blood can increase the rate of a process called glycation. This occurs when sugar molecules bind to proteins or fats, making them stiff and inflexible. One of the proteins affected is collagen, and this can result in loss of elasticity of the skin, encouraging the formation of wrinkles,” explains Nutritionist Cassandra Barns.
2. Avoid stress at all costs
Feeling stressed doesn’t just make you unhappy on the inside, but also on the outside by contributing to the cause of wrinkles, blotches and spots. “This is due to high levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) in the blood which contribute to other hormone imbalances in oestrogen and testosterone, leading to pimples and outbreaks,” explains Cassandra.
Top tip: Matthew Glithero & Eleonora Sansoni, founders of Wellthy Clinic suggest trying Studio Pilates. “Mindful movement can really help reduce stress. It’s very effective for people who struggle to relax or meditate as your focus is on flowing movements and breathing patterns which is a calming and therapeutic experience. You will improve your body awareness and your mind-body connection through challenging but low impact exercises.”
At Wellthy Clinic, their team offers total body care with their professional & highly skilled team of Osteopaths, Nutritionist, Pilates instructors and Massage therapists. They even have their own registered Nutritionist on hand to give you guidance on nutrition and health.
3. Drink green tea
Not only does green tea benefit your skin by drinking it but also by using the actual tea bags. So, after you’ve enjoyed a hot cup of green tea that helps to flush out the toxins and waste that accumulate in the body, ditch the eye masks and leave the damped green tea bags on your eyes. Their natural anti-oxidants will help to reduce puffiness and dark circles around the eyes, leaving you feeling fresh faced and helping to banish any traces of tiredness!
4. Eat oily fish
A recent study by the American Heart Association advices eating oily fish at least twice a week for heart health. Not only will this help you have a healthy heart, but this will also hugely benefit your skin.
“Oily fish such as mackerel and salmon contain lots of omega-3 fatty acids. These omega-3 acids plays an essential role in skin structure and appearance; they are incorporated into cell membranes in the epidermis (the top layer of skin) and form a matrix around the cells, helping to maintain the skin’s barrier function and prevent moisture loss. They are also thought to have a role in the dermis (the lower layer of skin) by controlling inflammation and minimising collagen damage from UV rays,” explains Cassandra.
5. Protect against pollution
More than 80% of people living in urban areas are exposed to air quality levels that exceed the World Health Organization limits. This means the majority of us are exposed to high levels of air pollution on a daily basis with particles landing on our skin and clogging up our pores. Fight off the effects of pollution with Natures Plus Ultra Juice Green Powder (£29.95, www.naturesplus.co.uk), by providing your skin with essential nutrients to help appear radiant and help fight off the effects of pollution.
6. Swap your moisturiser – go lighter
During the warmer months, you’re inevitably more prone to sweating when you’re out and about. It’s a good idea to swap your heavy cream for a lighter moisturiser, otherwise your skin can appear greasy and oily. Try the Timeless Rose Moisturiser by Odylique (£23.00, www.odylique.co.uk). This product manages to deeply moisture your skin whilst doing so through a light textured formula. This 100% natural product that is also vegan friendly is high in antioxidants that will help to reduce fine lines and counteract the ageing and collagen-destroying effects of free radicals and sunlight.
7. Don’t just settle for the glow – get the full package
Specifically formulated for health, radiance and beauty by leading UK nutritionist and women’s health expert, Dr Marilyn Glenville. The NHP Hair, Skin and Nail support (www.naturalheealthpractice.com £29.77) combines a special formulation of carefully chosen nutrients for women including antioxidants like vitamin C and E, grapeseed extract, selenium and zinc, which help to slow down the ageing process. It also includes other nutrients like biotin for maintaining healthy hair and skin, and vitamin B12 for healthy cell growth.
