Healthy-looking skin is often associated with expensive creams and lengthy skincare routines. However, many specialists believe what you eat can be just as important as the products you apply.
According to TV 2, dermatologist and PhD Cæcilie Johansen and clinical nutrition expert Stina Dannerfjord say one of the latest social media skincare trends has more scientific support than most.
Nutrition before skincare
The trend, often referred to as "eat your skincare," encourages people to improve their skin through diet rather than relying entirely on cosmetic products. Recently, canned sardines have become one of the most talked-about foods because they are naturally rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
According to Dannerfjord, many people consume less omega-3 than recommended. Existing research also suggests these healthy fats may help reduce inflammation in the body, a process that is believed to contribute to certain skin conditions, including acne and eczema.
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No miracle solution
While experts acknowledge that a balanced diet can support healthy skin, they stress that no single food can transform your complexion overnight. Eating sardines or other oily fish should be viewed as part of an overall healthy lifestyle rather than a replacement for proven skincare habits.
They also emphasise that people with skin conditions should seek appropriate medical advice instead of relying on social media trends or dietary changes alone.
Building healthier skin
According to the experts, maintaining healthy skin is best achieved through consistent daily habits rather than chasing viral beauty trends. Their recommendations include:
Wear SPF 30 or higher when UV levels are elevated, cleanse your skin every evening, apply moisturiser after showering, eat a varied diet that includes oily fish, avoid unnecessary fragrances in skincare products and seek medical treatment for persistent skin conditions.
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Although the viral sardine trend is unlikely to replace traditional skincare, the experts believe it highlights an important message: supporting your skin starts with looking after your overall health, and good nutrition should be part of that approach.
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