Sun-proof your skin from the inside out

Slathering on the SPF 50, donning a wide-brim fedora and slipping into an oversized cotton tee are tried-and-tested ways to shield skin from the sun. We all know plenty about the importance of protecting ourselves on the outside, but that can mean we overlook protecting ourselves from the inside. At Marlene Method, we’re major proponents of natural beauty and a wholesome, nurturing approach to skincare and wellbeing. That’s why we’ve put together our three-step plan to getting sunshine-ready, from the inside out, in 12 weeks. 
 
These methods can also be more effective than topical applications. Like most dermatologists, we recognise that they have limited success depending on the vitamin and the person – no two individuals’ skin will absorb them in the same way. That’s why we’ll be focussing on consumable nutrients.
 
1. Start on the Ester-C
 
Vitamin C isn’t just a common cold buster; it’s kind of a miracle worker when it comes to protecting the skin against sun damage and even skin cancer. Ester-C is a unique version of the vitamin that penetrates the cell membrane more effectively. It helps to fast-track your skin’s natural repair processes, as well as preventing future damage. Vitamin C itself does this by stimulating the growth of fibroblasts, a type of cell that supports wound healing and collagen production. Collagen is the main ingredient behind youthful-looking skin, making vitamin C a powerful organic anti-ageing solution. It has a raft of other plus points too, including boosting your immune system and acting as an anti-inflammatory. 
 
2. Eat plenty of beta-carotene
 
You’ll find beta-carotene in pretty much any orange vegetable or fruit – carrots, sweet potatoes and mangoes are nutrient-packed sources of it. If you’re not a fan of any of the above, you can get your intake from dark leafy greens like kale and spinach. Beta-carotene has two major benefits: first, it’s a source of vitamin A, which plays a major role in healthy skin; second, it’s an antioxidant, protecting cells against free radicals. Research suggests it’s a useful building block in your skin’s sun defences, protecting against UV irradiation and supporting long-term cell preservation.
 
3. Add a little vitamin E
 
Vitamin E works in a similar way to sun cream, absorbing a lot of the energy from UV light to protect your skin from harmful free radicals. Studies have shown that it’s particularly effective when combined with beta-carotene and vitamin C, making it the perfect ingredient to add to our mix. The combination of vitamins E and C has been associated with reduced DNA damage post-sun exposure, while adding it to your beta-carotene intake can boost its ability to prevent sunburn. Get yours from vegetable oils, nuts and greens, and take supplements to make sure you’re getting enough.
 
If you’d like to learn more about a natural, healthier approach to anti-ageing, join our upcoming workshops, run by Marlene Method founder Marlene Muñoz. Contact us today for more information.