My birthday is right around the corner, and I’m officially in my mid-30s. I’m a mother of two with a newborn, so here’s what’s on my mind all day long: How can I look younger? How can I look like I’ve slept for days when, in reality, I haven’t?

I started researching methods for slowing visible signs of aging. Simple things. I’m not talking about going and getting a face-lift; I’m talking about things that don’t take a lot of effort and are accessible. Like my refrigerator.

Did you guys know you can eat your way to good skin? Healthy foods nourish your skin cells, which can subtract years from your age!

(Heads up: Your genetic makeup does play a big role into how your skin does or doesn’t age. Thanks, Armenian genes!) 

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are great for your skin. They’re filled with vitamin A, vitamin C and folic acid. They also contain antioxidants. Something fun you can do is, once a week, put tomato slices on your skin for 20 minutes to rejuvenate it. You can also help your skin tone by using a mixture of tomato juice and olive oil as a mask.

Avocadoes

Avocados have good fat, and eating one avocado a day helps skin regeneration, and provides your body with vitamin C, potassium and antioxidants? Try avocado juice in the mornings. All you have to do is mix avocado, milk, crushed ice and spoonful of brown sugar in a blender.

Berries

Strawberries, blackberries, blueberries and grapes have antioxidant properties that help to delay cell damage.

Carrots

Carrots help protect your skin from photoaging and premature aging. Keep in mind to not overcook your carrots.

Lemon

Lemons and other citrus fruits contain vitamin C and folic acid. If you eat them regularly, they detox your body, brightening your skin. In the morning, I like to drink a cup of warm water with lemon juice squeezed into it.

Garlic

Garlic is the anti-aging superfood. I know eating garlic sucks because it makes your breath stink. But if you use it as a seasoning for some of the food you eat, then it won’t be that bad.

Olive Oil

Olive oil keeps your skin hydrated and toned, which prevents aging. It also decreases the appearance of fine lines. Apply it around your eyes before you go to bed. You can also use it in the morning as a toner. You can even mix a drop of olive oil in your moisturizer.

Fish

Salmon has fatty acid, which reverses age-related skin damage. I usually prepare oven-baked salmon, which I prepare simply with a bit of olive oil, salt and pepper.

Turmeric

This plant found in powder form is a great seasoning that’s not only delicious, but also combats skin inflammation and slows the aging process.

XO,