A humble vegetable found in most kitchens could be the secret to youthful skin, according to skincare experts. The world of skincare can often feel like a maze, with everything from hydrating creams to unusual salmon sperm facials on offer.
However, those in their thirties might be surprised to learn that a common root vegetable could hold the key to anti-ageing. This everyday item is packed with vitamin C and sulphur, which are known for their skin benefits – and it’s the onion.
Sulphur, which gives onions their distinctive smell, could boost our collagen production – a bonus as this skin-plumping protein naturally decreases over time, says Skinglo. By simply adding red or white onions to your diet, you could help keep fine lines and wrinkles at bay.
Onions are readily available and affordable, with a pack of three costing around £1 at Tesco. MedicalNewsToday stated: “As a good source of vitamin C, onions may support the building and maintenance of collagen. Collagen provides structure to skin and hair.”
For those looking to stimulate collagen, MayoClinic specialists recommend foods rich in copper, manganese, and zinc, such as pumpkin and broccoli, reports Surrey Live, reports the Daily Record. Selecting the right type of product is crucial when it comes to anti-ageing efforts.
It’s believed only ‘hydrolysed collagen’, made up of smaller peptides, can penetrate the skin’s upper layer and somewhat lessen the signs of ageing etched on our faces. Darcy Laceby, co-founder of Absolute Collagen, has been quoted saying: “Don’t waste your money on buying collagen masks, creams and serums as the only benefit you’ll get from applying collagen directly to your skin is very minimal hydration.”
She elaborated on this, adding: “The only face masks, creams and serums that effectively work are pro-collagen products or ones containing collagen-boosting peptides that support collagen production.” The skin expert suggests opting for collagen supplements as a more effective alternative.
She claims that they are absorbed into the bloodstream faster, tackle ageing from within, and can even bolster nail health and potentially enhance muscle mass. However, she acknowledges that the research in this area is not yet conclusive. Darcy underlined this, adding: “So, remember, you do not need collagen as an ingredient in your skincare routine, only in your supplement routine.
“Don’t waste your money on buying collagen masks, creams and serums as the only benefit you’ll get from applying collagen directly to your skin is very minimal hydration. The only face masks, creams and serums that effectively work are pro-collagen products or ones containing collagen-boosting peptides that support collagen production.
“So, remember, you do not need collagen as an ingredient in your skincare routine, only in your supplement routine.”