Ageing is a natural part of life, but what you do daily - such as what you eat, how you sleep and your lifestyle habits - will affect how this impacts your skin.
Speaking exclusively to GB News, a nutritionist explained the foods to avoid for more youthful-looking skin.
These foods can negatively impact collagen stores, according to nutritional health coach and co-founder of Sixways Georgi Grogan.
Collagen is a natural protein found in the body that is responsible for things like the strength of hair and the elasticity of the skin. Natural stores deplete with age, however.
Some foods can make your skin look worse
GETTY
Georgi discussed the foods to avoid. She said: "Certain foods can significantly hinder collagen production in the body, impacting skin elasticity, joint health and overall tissue repair.
"Consuming foods that are high in refined sugar can lead to glycation, a process where sugar molecules damage collagen and elastin fibers.
"Where possible, to help support collagen formation, try to stick to foods with natural sugars such as fruit, instead of highly processed sugary drinks, snacks and desserts."
The expert suggested avoiding foods high in refined sugar. Processed foods - such as ready meals, crisps and some baked goods - are also worth limiting.
The nutritionist continued: "While there is lots of discussion regarding ultra processed foods and the impact they have on our health, they are also a key contributor to fine lines and premature aging.
"Often high in unhealthy fats and sugars, these processed foods promote inflammation and accelerate the breakdown of collagen. This can lead to dull, dry and lacklustre skin and hair.
"Similarly, foods high in trans fats, commonly found in fried and processed foods, promote inflammation that interferes with collagen synthesis and accelerates skin ageing."
Indeed, a study by Maira Bes-Rastrollo, PhD found ultra-processed foods could be accelerating the ageing process of your skin.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Eating the right foods can help you to look younger
GETTYWhen it comes to what you drink, limiting alcohol can be beneficial for the appearance of your skin, the nutritionist continued.
She added: "Excessive alcohol consumption also disrupts collagen production by dehydrating the skin and impairing nutrient absorption crucial for collagen formation.
"Lastly, insufficient protein intake, particularly lacking in essential amino acids necessary for collagen synthesis, can hinder the body's ability to repair and maintain connective tissues effectively."
