Smooth and healthy skin is a common goal. Skin problems can affect you at any age and can be a cause of concern depending on the severity of the condition. They are usually caused by factors such as allergic reactions, pollution, lifestyle, poor nutrition, etc. Consuming nutrient-rich foods that boost skin health can be a great way for people with skin problems to get relief from some of the symptoms. Read on to know more:

Nutrients and types of food vital for good skin
Healthy fats
Healthy fats contain omega-3 and omega-6 components that act as building blocks of the cell membranes and help to hydrate the skin and prevent dryness. Avocado is a delicious fruit, rich in healthy fats and healthy oils, which are essential in keeping your skin moisturized and soft. Its vitamin E content can protect your skin from oxidative damage. Other sources of healthy fats are salmon, sunflower seeds, mackerel, olive oil and eggs.

Vitamins and minerals
Nuts are a great source of healthy fats, and other nutrients including vitamin E, selenium, omega fatty acids, copper, zinc, and calcium. All of these are essential for maintaining good skin health. Cashews, with their high vitamin E and selenium content, have been found to be very effective against acne. Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids. These essential fats can reduce inflammation of the skin. Walnuts are also rich in zinc, which helps wounds to heal faster. Almonds are packed with essential protein and fatty acids, and vitamin E, which keeps the blood vessels dilated and boosts skin health.

Vegetables
Green, leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, broccoli and lettuce are packed with essential nutrients required to maintain skin health. Most leafy greens are rich in beta carotene, which serves as an antioxidant for maintaining skin health and appearance. It can also can protect your skin from the sun and are a good source of vitamins A and E. Vitamin A and beta carotene together fight discoloration and prevent dryness of the skin. Vitamin E present in leafy greens protect the cells of the skin from free radical damage.

Protein
The amino acids found in proteins help to produce collagen, keratin and elastin that are necessary for the skin, hair and nails. Proteins help in the production of new skin cells and can maintain the firmness and elasticity of the skin. Hence, consuming chicken, fish, beans and other lean sources of protein can help you manage skin health.

Treatment options
Apart from a proper and nutritious meal plan, getting the right treatment is also essential for those dealing with skin allergies and conditions. The following treatment options can help to deal with skin issues:

Dupixent®
Dupixent® (Dupilumab) is a biologic prescription treatment option used to treat conditions of atopic dermatitis (eczema), asthma, and nasal polyps. This treatment plan is prescribed for people of age 6 years and above with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. It is applied when this skin condition is not responding well to other topical prescription therapies. Dupilumab is commonly available in two strengths: 200mg and 300mg. The immune system of people with eczema can cause inflammation by triggering interleukin (a type of protein in the immune system) to cause skin flare-ups. Dupixent® works to deal with eczema by blocking interleukin from binding to the cell receptors.

Cibinqo™
Cibinqo™ is a prescribed treatment for adults with moderate-to-severe eczema. The safety and effectiveness of this treatment plan in children is unknown. Cininqo™ is a proven method that provides clearer skin and relief from itching. It works by acting as an inhibitor to block the JAK1 protein, which is an important component that causes inflammation due to dermatitis. This treatment plan comes in three strengths 50mg, 100mg, and 200mg. The recommended dosage for Cibinqo™ is 100mg or 200mg on a daily basis or as directed by a physician. It is taken orally with water. Cibinqo™ may result in side effects that include bacterial and fungal infections, common cold, headache, urinary tract infections, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.

Upadacitinib
Upadacitinib, sold under the brand name Rinvoq® and is used to treat eczema in adults and children who are above 12 years. It is used to cure moderate-severe atopic dermatitis that did not respond well to other treatments. Rinvoq® works by inhibiting the JAK1 protein and regulating the overactive immune system. This action helps in blocking certain signals that are thought to cause inflammation. Upadacititb is taken orally, once a day, with or without food. It is available in strengths of 15mg and 30mg.

Eucrisa®
Eucrisa® (crisaborole) is used to treat mild-to-moderate eczema in children, adults, and infants aged three months and above. It is available in one dosage strength as a 2% ointment and can be bought in 60g and 100g tubes. To get the best results, apply a thin layer of this ointment, twice a day in the affected area. The active ingredient, crisaborole, acts inside and outside the skin to inhibit the enzyme PDE4 (phosphodiesterase 4) and reduce inflammation.

There are a few overlapping symptoms of eczema and acne. However, both skin disorders are completely unrelated. Eczema causes bumpy red rashes or blisters to develop on the skin that looks like acne. Both eczema and acne flare-ups can be managed with oral or topical steroids and anti-inflammatory creams that cleanse the pores and reduce sebum production.