The colder months of the year may be cosy and Christmassy, but there is no denying that your skin takes a hit during the winter period.
So the secret to a better complexion in chillier climes? According to an expert, it could be changing your diet.
It is widely understood an excellent skin care routine is the cornerstone of an enviable complexion, but no amount of skin-boosting ingredients can make up for a poor lifestyle.
Skin scientist Dr Majad Hussain, co-founder of personalised prescription dermatology service MiQuest, believes five foods hold the key to vibrant, hydrated and soft skin.
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These can provide an "effective and affordable" helping hand year-round, but particularly during this chilly period.
The expert said: "Winter can be a tough time for our complexions, thanks to the cold, wet air it experiences outdoors and the warm, dry air of indoor central heating. Issues such as dryness, flakiness, acne, eczema, and increased sensitivity are all common throughout the darker months.
"What we eat and drink plays a vital role in keeping our skin at its best all year, and a few effective and affordable adjustments to your diet can help address those winter-specific issues."
Here, Dr Hussain shared five foods to keep dry, flaky skin at bay during the colder months.
The healthy monounsaturated fats in avocados add moisture to the skin and strengthen its barrier
| PAAvocado
"The green fruit has exploded in popularity in recent years and plays an important role in a variety of breakfast and lunch dishes, including salads, smoothies, and as a toast topping.
"Its high content of healthy monounsaturated fats is great for adding moisture to the skin and strengthening its barrier, while it also has around 70 per cent water content.
"Avocado is also a source of beneficial nutrients such as oleic acid, vitamins C and E, and potassium."
Oily fish
"Varieties such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel have a range of beneficial properties for skin as they are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
"These nutrients play an essential role in regulating the skin barrier to keep moisture locked in and can soothe irritation caused by exposure to harsh weather.
"They also play a part in keeping the skin supple and firm, and keep signs of ageing at bay."
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Oranges are a great source of vitamin C, which can boost collagen production
| GETTYOranges
"Citrus fruits such as oranges are naturally rich in water content, which helps give skin a boost of moisture.
"They are great sources of vitamin C, which can help brighten complexions and also boost production of collagen, an essential building block of our skin.
"Meanwhile, they have anti-inflammatory properties to help ease redness and irritation."
Spinach
"Leafy greens such as spinach contain several helpful nutrients to prevent dry, cracked skin.
"Vitamins A and C help promote healthy cell turnover and hydration, while vitamin K and iron improve blood circulation and strengthen blood vessels.
"Spinach also has a high water content and antioxidants to give your complexion a boost."
Sweet potato
"This tasty vegetable can help promote a healthy complexion, prevent dryness and even fight visible signs of ageing such as wrinkles.
"It is rich in both vitamins A and C to maintain moisturised and supple skin. And it’s a source of beta-carotene, which not only helps prevent water loss but also can help prevent damage from the sun’s UV rays, which remain a risk even in winter."
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