As I've gotten older, even when I put on makeup, my skin looks dull, and if I get a blemish, it doesn't go away as quickly as it used to.

At first, I only sought out expensive cosmetics, but I found out that one of the biggest causes of aging skin is the food I eat every day.

Of course, I can't stop aging. However, by reducing foods that accelerate skin aging and eating more foods that are good for my skin, I've noticed a significant difference.

The first food I cut back on was instant noodles. Instant noodles are high in sodium and contain a lot of saturated fat. Eating a bowl of instant noodles late at night often left my face puffy and my skin looking dull the next day. Plus, the lack of vegetables means I'm not getting enough vitamins and antioxidants, making it a poor choice for my skin.

Processed meats like ham and sausage are also among the foods I eat frequently. They are convenient and often used as lunchbox sides, but processed meats often contain a lot of sodium and preservatives. Long-term consumption of these foods can negatively impact skin health.

Surprisingly, eating pig's feet frequently also requires caution. While they are high in collagen, they are also high in fat and calories.

Moreover, when combined with dishes like cold noodles or carbonated drinks, the calorie count for a single meal can skyrocket.

It's also good to remember that just because you consume a lot of collagen doesn't mean your skin's collagen will increase accordingly.

Sweet cakes, donuts, snacks, and carbonated drinks are also typical foods that can accelerate skin aging. Excessive sugar intake creates an environment where skin elasticity decreases and fine lines are more likely to form.

Alcohol cannot be overlooked either. Drinking frequently can lead to dehydration in the body, making the skin dry. This is why your face may look dull and lifeless the next day.

On the other hand, there are certain foods I intentionally include for my skin's benefit.

The first is parsley. It is rich in vitamins C and K, which can help with antioxidant activity. Just adding a little to salads enhances the flavor and provides nutrition.

The second is pumpkin. It is rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body and helps maintain skin health. It also provides good satiety, making it a frequent choice during dieting.

I also try to eat an apple every day. It contains dietary fiber and vitamin C, which can benefit not only the skin but also gut health. I've really come to realize that a healthy gut leads to better skin.

Lastly, I almost eat Greek yogurt daily. Choosing a product that is high in protein and low in sugar makes it a convenient breakfast or snack.

Adding a little blueberry or nuts enhances both the taste and nutritional value.

Ultimately, it seems that skin is primarily created at the dining table rather than through cosmetics.

Foods like instant noodles, ham, and pig's feet can be enjoyed occasionally, but it's best not to eat them too often. Instead, developing a habit of consistently eating foods that are good for the body, like parsley, pumpkin, apples, and Greek yogurt, might be the easiest way to slow down skin aging.

Skin doesn't change overnight, but the foods I eat every day will definitely make a difference in my face in a few months.