What to eat and what to avoid to optimise your aesthetic treatment results

They say you are what you eat. And to an extent, what we put into our bodies can have an effect on our outward appearance. So for anyone about to undergo an aesthetic treatment and keen to optimise the results, it’s worth paying extra close attention to how you’re fuelling and nourishing your body. The aesthetic experts at YourGP reveal four things to add to your shopping list and five things to avoid.

Get more of the good stuff

Omega-3 fatty acids
These acids are essential for calming any redness or sensitivity after an aesthetic treatment, and they also help the skin to lock in moisture, giving it a more supple feel and more radiant look.

Opt for oily fish such as salmon and mackerel which are rich in omega-3, and add nuts and seeds such as walnuts, chia seeds and flaxseeds to your shopping list too.

Vitamin C
This micronutrient is crucial for accelerating tissue repair, reducing inflammation and boosting collagen production – all of which will translate into better treatment results.

Stock up on citrus fruits and berries as well as plenty of greens such as broccoli, spinach and kale.

Protein
Protein-rich foods contain amino acids which are essential for collagen, elastin and keratin production. And collagen, elastin and keratin are essential for providing your skin with structure, stretch and strength, translating into younger looking skin.

Most supermarkets are now loaded with shelves of products that claim to be “high protein”, but remember the healthiest option is always to opt for whole foods. Eggs, chicken, salmon and Greek yoghurt are great options, as are tofu and lentils for those following a plant-based diet.

Water
We need water to deliver all these essential nutrients to the skin cells so they can heal and rejuvenate.

Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day to ensure you’re well hydrated.

Things to steer clear of

Refined sugar
Eating foods that contain lots of refined sugar can trigger a process called glycation, whereby newly forming collagen fibres become stiff and damaged. Too much refined sugar will accelerate the breakdown of existing collagen and hinder the production of new collagen too.

Give fizzy drinks and fruit juices a swerve and opt for plenty of water instead. And check food labels for hidden refined sugars such as high-fructose corn syrup, sucrose and maltose which are often added to sauces and condiments.

Sodium
Some aesthetic treatments can leave the skin a little swollen and this can be exacerbated by excessive sodium.

It’s best to cut out salty snacks for the first couple of days post-treatment. Instead, reach for healthier alternatives such as fruit, nuts and seeds.

Alcohol
Alcohol dehydrates tissue and thins the blood, which can make any bruising in the treatment area worse. It can also contribute to inflammation.

Avoid alcohol for 5 to 7 days before your aesthetic treatment and for a few days afterwards.

Ultra-processed foods
UPFs can disrupt the microbiome which is essential for absorbing vital nutrients, managing systemic inflammation and supporting the body’s immune function – all of which are required to reduce post-treatment downtime and speed up recovery.

Opt for fresh, whole foods, and cook meals from scratch when and where possible so you know exactly what’s going into each dish and into your body.

Book your appointment

If you’re interested in finding out more about the range of safe and effective aesthetic treatments available at YourGP, book a consultation with Dr Cathrow using our simple online booking system. Or you can email reception@your.gp, or call us on 0131 225 5656 and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you.