Boost Your Skinspan: Top Nutrition Tips for Timeless Skin

Discover what skinspan is and how nutrition impacts it. Learn the top foods to support radiant, healthy skin from the inside out.

boost your skinspan

What to know

  • Skinspan is the length of time your skin stays youthful and resilient, shaped by both lifestyle and nutrition.

  • Skin aging is driven from the inside and the outside. Intrinsic factors like mitochondrial decline, combine with extrinsic stressors such as UV exposure to accelerate visible skin aging.

  • Diet plays a foundational role in skin health. Plant-forward, anti-inflammatory eating patterns help protect skin cells, support collagen, and promote repair.

  • Nuts, olive oil, leafy greens, soy foods, sweet potatoes, fatty fish, citrus, and pomegranates provide nutrients linked to better hydration, elasticity, pigmentation, and resilience.

  • Mitopure bridges nutrition and skin longevity science. Timeline's skincare products are clinically proven to promote skin health beyond the surface.

If you’re on a quest to optimize longevity, your skin deserves to be a part of the conversation. For many people, a youthful outer glow reflects how energetic and vibrant they feel. And beyond aesthetics, your skin is an organ of longevity in its own right and can serve as a biomarker for your overall health.

The emerging term skinspan describes how long your skin remains healthy, youthful, and strong. While the products you use on your skin play an instrumental role in how your skin ages, skin health actually starts from within, with the foods that you eat.

Let’s explore the connection between skin longevity and the foods that support skin health from the inside out.


What is Skinspan and Skin Longevity?

What is Skinspan and Skin Longevity?

Skinspan refers to how long your skin stays healthy, strong, and resilient as you age. While skin aging is natural, the rate and way it shows up differ from person to person. And since the skin is one of the largest organs in the body, it should not be overlooked.

Just like healthspan, skinspan is influenced by both genetics and lifestyle choices[1]. Skin health is an outward reflection of overall health, and is a growing priority both in aesthetic and longevity medicine. Not to mention, glowing skin can be a wonderful confidence booster.

Why Does Our Skin Age?

Our skin changes over time because of both internal (intrinsic) and external (extrinsic) factors.[2]

Internally, normal processes like mitochondrial decline,[3] nutrient metabolism, genetics, and cellular senescence damage skin cells over time. These changes contribute to free radical production, unstable molecules that can damage skin and contribute to inflammation.

Outside the body, factors such as sun exposure, air pollution, smoking, and stress accelerate this damage. Together, these changes manifest as skin dryness, sagging, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.

What Role do Mitochondria Play in Skin Aging?

What are the Best Foods for Healthy Skin?

Wondering if there is a diet that makes you look younger? While your food choices won’t transform your skin overnight, research shows[4] plant-forward diets rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, and other anti-inflammatory nutrients can reduce damage to skin cells, preserve collagen, and support repair processes that keep skin glowing. Following such a tailored nutrition approach for skin health is known as dermonutrition.

When seeking inspiration, we can look to well-known longevity regions: Okinawa, the Nordics, and the Mediterranean Blue Zones of the world. In these regions, the diet includes primarily plant-based foods and fish that support skin health and overall longevity.

Here are some of the key foods to eat more of to extend your skinspan.

foods to help skinspan, top nutrition tips for timeless skin

Nuts

Rich in vitamin E and anti-inflammatory fats like omega-3 fatty acids, nuts help shield the skin from oxidative damage[6] while supporting hydration and skin barrier function. While all nuts are nutritious, almonds and walnuts[5] in particular appear to be the most protective.

Olive oil

Olive oil is rich in polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats,[8] which are healthy and anti-inflammatory to help keep skin firm, protect it from sun damage, and slow down signs of aging. It also contains antioxidants and vitamin E,[7] which can further reduce inflammation.

Leafy greens

Green leafy veggies like spinach and kale are high in vitamins A, C, K, folate, and antioxidants like carotenoids, which support collagen synthesis and combat oxidative stress[9] for more resilient skin.

Soy foods

High in plant-based proteins and isoflavones, soy foods like tofu, tempeh, soy milk, and edamame may help to reduce signs of photoaging,[10] the premature aging of the skin that occurs from sun damage. And while some may be leery of consuming soy foods. If you have concerns, always speak to your doctor for personalized advice.

Sweet potatoes

A Blue Zone staple, these root vegetables are rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants, promoting skin repair,[11] UV protection, and the healthy pigmentation many desire.

Fatty fish

Oily fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel are one of the best omega-3 fat sources[12]. Studies link high omega-3 intake to a healthy skin barrier, improved skin hydration, and reduced wrinkle appearance.[13]

Citrus fruit

Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruit, lemon, and lime are rich in vitamin C, a potent antioxidant and key ally for longer skinspan. Diets high in vitamin C have been linked to better skin quality and fewer visible signs of aging, which can make skin appear tighter. It also supports collagen production,[14] which provides more structure and strength to your skin.

Pomegranates

Pomegranates are packed with polyphenols, beneficial plant compounds that help fight inflammation[16]. One standout type of polyphenol found in pomegranates, called ellagitannins, can be converted in the gut into Urolithin A—a compound that boosts mitochondrial renewal.[15]

The catch? Most people’s microbiome can’t make this conversion, nor do they eat enough of the dietary precursors to fully reap the benefits.[17]

skincare

Topical Mitopure for Skin Longevity

Urolithin A can be applied topically for targeted skin support. In a gold-standard randomized clinical trial, topical Mitopure (a clinically validated form of Urolithin A) was found to slow intrinsic skin aging and protect against UVB-mediated damage.

Timeline skincare is powered by Mitopure technology to reenergize cells and target visible signs of aging. Our topical range pairs Mitopure with research-driven actives such as niacinamide, red algae extracts, and peptides. Together, these high-performing ingredients fortify the skin barrier, restore hydration, targets skin aging at a foundational level.

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Simple Recipe for Skin Longevity

Here’s a super simple recipe to kickstart your skin longevity diet.

Pomegranate Walnut Spinach Salad with Citrus Olive Oil Dressing

Ingredients (serves 2):

  • 3 cups fresh spinach
  • ½ cup pomegranate seeds
  • ¼ cup walnuts, lightly toasted
  • 1 small orange, peeled and segmented
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp honey (optional)
  • Pinch of sea salt and black pepper

Instructions:

  • In a large bowl, combine spinach, pomegranate seeds, walnuts, and orange segments.
  • In a small jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
  • Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently.
  • Serve immediately as a refreshing, skin-nourishing side dish or light meal.

This salad offers deep nutrition for healthy skin through its pomegranate polyphenols, walnuts, spinach, and anti-inflammatory olive oil. Plus, it’s a cinch to prepare.

Final Thoughts

Your skin's health and youthfulness, your skinspan, are influenced not just by skincare products but also by what you eat. A diet rich in polyphenol-packed foods like pomegranates, nuts, leafy greens, and omega-3–rich fish provides the best nutrition for healthy skin and supports your mitochondria at the cellular level.

Authors

Melissa Mitri, MS, RD

Written by

Dietitian-Nutritionist, and Health Content Writer

Jen Scheinman, MS, RDN, CDN

Reviewed by

Director Science Communications

References

  1. Kream E, Fabi SG, Boen M. Skinspan: A Holistic Roadmap for Extending Skin Longevity With Evidence-Based Interventions. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2025;24(9):e70432. doi:10.1111/jocd.70432

  2. Hussein RS, Bin Dayel S, Abahussein O, El-Sherbiny AA. Influences on Skin and Intrinsic Aging: Biological, Environmental, and Therapeutic Insights. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2025;24(2):e16688. doi:10.1111/jocd.16688

  3. https://www.timeline.com/blog/skin-health-aging-and-the-cellular-powerhouse

  4. Parga A, Coven H. Traditional Diets and Skin Longevity: Okinawan, Nordic, and Blue Zone Insights: Traditional diets from longevity regions like Okinawa, the Nordic countries, and Mediterranean Blue Zones may extend not only lifespan—but also ‘skin span’—by preserving collagen, reducing inflammation, and protecting against photoaging., JOID, vol. 1, no. 1, Jul. 2025, doi: 10.64550/joid.rtbr1f25.

  5. Fam VW, Charoenwoodhipong P, Sivamani RK, Holt RR, Keen CL, Hackman RM. Plant-Based Foods for Skin Health: A Narrative Review. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 2021;122(3). doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jand.2021.10.024 (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jand.2021.10.024&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1758907179298266&usg=AOvVaw1mt2fWW_I0dHhaC0xRA47z)

  6. Parga A, Coven H. Traditional Diets and Skin Longevity: Okinawan, Nordic, and Blue Zone Insights: Traditional diets from longevity regions like Okinawa, the Nordic countries, and Mediterranean Blue Zones may extend not only lifespan—but also ‘skin span’—by preserving collagen, reducing inflammation, and protecting against photoaging., JOID, vol. 1, no. 1, Jul. 2025, doi: 10.64550/joid.rtbr1f25.

  7. Bucciantini M, Leri M, Nardiello P, Casamenti F, Stefani M. Olive Polyphenols: Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties. Antioxidants (Basel). 2021;10(7):1044. Published 2021 Jun 29. doi:10.3390/antiox10071044

  8. Fam VW, Charoenwoodhipong P, Sivamani RK, Holt RR, Keen CL, Hackman RM. Plant-Based Foods for Skin Health: A Narrative Review. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 2021;122(3). doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jand.2021.10.024 (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jand.2021.10.024&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1758907179323308&usg=AOvVaw0IL309YKTUjTpp-xtJhQjx)

  9. Fam VW, Charoenwoodhipong P, Sivamani RK, Holt RR, Keen CL, Hackman RM. Plant-Based Foods for Skin Health: A Narrative Review. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 2021;122(3). doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jand.2021.10.024 (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jand.2021.10.024&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1758907179321673&usg=AOvVaw0YakdgWjZi2K5XvS6i86sb)

  10. Rizzo J, Min M, Adnan S, et al. Soy Protein Containing Isoflavones Improves Facial Signs of Photoaging and Skin Hydration in Postmenopausal Women: Results of a Prospective Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2023;15(19):4113. Published 2023 Sep 23. doi:10.3390/nu15194113

  11. Parga A, Coven H. Traditional Diets and Skin Longevity: Okinawan, Nordic, and Blue Zone Insights: Traditional diets from longevity regions like Okinawa, the Nordic countries, and Mediterranean Blue Zones may extend not only lifespan—but also ‘skin span’—by preserving collagen, reducing inflammation, and protecting against photoaging., JOID, vol. 1, no. 1, Jul. 2025, doi: 10.64550/joid.rtbr1f25.

  12. National Institutes of Health. Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Nih.gov. Published February 15, 2023. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Omega3FattyAcids-HealthProfessional/ (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Omega3FattyAcids-HealthProfessional/&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1758907179324677&usg=AOvVaw0oCDER4OGNXlIdZgVxNPpg)

  13. Parke MA, Perez-Sanchez A, Zamil DH, Katta R. Diet and Skin Barrier: The Role of Dietary Interventions on Skin Barrier Function. Dermatol Pract Concept. 2021;11(1):e2021132. Published 2021 Jan 29. doi:10.5826/dpc.1101a132

  14. Khalid A, Iqbal Z, Rehman SU, Yousaf Z. Role of Vitamin C in Skin Aging Mechanism-A Narrative Review. Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Research. 2024;4(2):1489-1494. doi:https://doi.org/10.61919/jhrr.v4i2.1078 (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://doi.org/10.61919/jhrr.v4i2.1078&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1758907179331002&usg=AOvVaw35_l85VcpquvwO61zBvuQU)

  15. Liu W, Yan F, Xu Z, et al. Urolithin A protects human dermal fibroblasts from UVA-induced photoaging through NRF2 activation and mitophagy. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology. 2022;232:112462. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2022.112462 (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2022.112462&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1758907179318445&usg=AOvVaw33om83TbpBGIdjFWH8-VC9)

  16. Sharifi-Rad J, Quispe C, Castillo CMS, et al. Ellagic Acid: A Review on Its Natural Sources, Chemical Stability, and Therapeutic Potential [retracted in: Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2024 Jan 9;2024:9801541. doi: 10.1155/2024/9801541.]. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2022;2022:3848084. Published 2022 Feb 21. doi:10.1155/2022/3848084

  17. Singh, A., D'Amico, D., Andreux, P. A., Dunngalvin, G., Kern, T., Blanco-Bose, W., Auwerx, J., Aebischer, P., & Rinsch, C. (2022). Direct supplementation with Urolithin A overcomes limitations of dietary exposure and gut microbiome variability in healthy adults to achieve consistent levels across the population. European journal of clinical nutrition, 76(2), 297–308. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41430-021-00950-1 (https://www.google.com/url?q=https://doi.org/10.1038/s41430-021-00950-1&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1758907179349876&usg=AOvVaw3HaKBlMQVt2mDLNsc4frWP)

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. References: *Nutrition studies: 500mg Mitopure® have been shown to (1) induce gene expression related to mitochondria function and metabolism and (2) increase the strength of the hamstring leg muscle in measures of knee extension and flexion in overweight 40-65 year olds. Data from two randomized double-blind placebo-controlled human clinical trials. **Nutrition NOURISH Study: 500mg Mitopure® have been shown to deliver at least 6 times higher Urolithin A plasma levels over 24 hours (area under the curve) than 8 ounces (240ml) of pomegranate juice in a randomized human clinical trial.

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