Healthy Skin from the Inside Out: A Food-First Guide (and Where Botanicals Fit)

No supplement will give you "glowing skin" on its own, and no supplement reverses ageing. What makes the biggest difference is simple and well established. This guide covers the basics first, then where botanicals like turmeric and moringa can fit into a balanced routine.

The big four for healthy-looking skin

• Sun protection – New Zealand's UV is among the strongest in the world. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, a hat and shade matter more than anything else you can buy.
• Sleep – aim for a regular sleep routine.
• Hydration – drink water through the day.
• Don't smoke – and keep alcohol moderate.

Nutrients that play a role in normal skin

• Vitamin C – contributes to normal collagen formation. Found in kiwifruit, citrus, capsicum and broccoli.
• Vitamin A – involved in the maintenance of normal skin. Found in carrots, kūmara, leafy greens, eggs and dairy.
• Vitamin E – found in nuts, seeds and avocado.
• Zinc – found in meat, seafood, legumes and seeds.
• Healthy fats – from oily fish, nuts, seeds and olive oil.

A varied diet with plenty of colourful vegetables and fruit covers most of these for most people.

Where botanicals fit

Botanicals aren't a substitute for the basics, but some people enjoy adding them to a balanced diet:

Turmeric

A golden spice used in South Asian cooking and Ayurvedic tradition for thousands of years. Its main compound, curcumin, is the subject of a lot of research. Try it in curries, golden milk or smoothies, or as Herbicare Turmeric Capsules (100% turmeric root powder).

Moringa

A leafy green that naturally contains vitamins A, C and E, plus calcium and iron. Supplement amounts are small, so treat it as an extra green, not a replacement for vegetables. Try Moringa Leaf Powder in a smoothie or Moringa Capsules.

When to see a professional

If you have acne, eczema, rosacea, a changing mole or any skin concern, see your GP or a dermatologist. Supplements aren't a treatment for skin conditions.

Browse our Beauty collection or read the moringa guide.

Disclaimer: This article is general educational information only. It is not medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Herbicare products are dietary supplements, not medicines, and have not been evaluated by Medsafe. Traditional use does not necessarily reflect modern scientific evidence. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If you have a health condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take prescription medication, talk to a qualified health professional before starting any supplement. Individual results vary.