Sun Protective Foods Kendall Egan MD Las Vegas Integrative Dermatology

k westeastcoast
Jul 10
2 min read

How Integrative Nutrition Can Support Your Skin Under the Las Vegas SunBy Kendall Egan, MD – Board-Certified DermatologistLas Vegas Integrative Dermatology

We all know that sunscreen is essential—but what if your diet could give your skin extra protection?

At Las Vegas Integrative Dermatology, we focus on more than just prescriptions. We help patients across Las Vegas, Summerlin, and Henderson protect and heal their skin through an integrative, root-cause approach. That includes nutrition—because certain antioxidant-rich foods can support your skin's natural defenses against the sun.

🔅 1. Tomatoes & Watermelon

These are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect skin from UV-induced redness and oxidative stress. Studies show lycopene can accumulate in the skin and offer mild photoprotection when consumed consistently.

🥕 2. Carrots & Sweet Potatoes

These orange veggies are packed with beta-carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A. Beta-carotene supports healthy skin turnover and may reduce sun sensitivity over time.

🌱 3. Spinach & Leafy Greens

Dark greens like spinach, kale, and chard are loaded with lutein and zeaxanthin, which help shield the skin from oxidative stress caused by UV exposure and support collagen health.

🍵 4. Green Tea

Green tea contains EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate)—a potent polyphenol with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Research suggests it may reduce UV-related DNA damage and inflammation.

🐟 5. Salmon & Fatty Fish

Fatty fish like salmon and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which help calm UV-induced inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier.

🍊 6. Passion Fruit & Citrus Fruits

Vitamin C is essential for collagen production and antioxidant defense. Passion fruit, oranges, lemons, and limes are great sources to support smoother, firmer skin from within.

❤️ 7. Pomegranates

Pomegranates contain ellagic acid and punicalagins—antioxidants shown to reduce pigmentation, prevent collagen breakdown, and protect against UVB-induced damage in lab studies.

🧴 Do These Foods Replace Sunscreen?

No—but they complement it. These foods can help your skin recover from sun exposure, improve elasticity, and reduce inflammation. Combined with broad-spectrum SPF, smart sun habits, and protective clothing, your skin is better protected.

Why This Matters at Las Vegas Integrative Dermatology

At our clinic, we go beyond the surface. We blend traditional dermatology with integrative tools like:

Nutritional guidance
Micronutrient & gut health testing
Lifestyle-based treatment plans
Unrushed visits with a board-certified dermatologist

If you’re tired of quick fixes and want answers rooted in science, we’re here to help.

About Dr. Kendall Egan, MD

Dr. Egan is a board-certified dermatologist, Navy veteran, and founder of Las Vegas Integrative Dermatology. She specializes in treating acne, melasma, eczema, psoriasis, sun damage, and complex skin conditions with a personalized, integrative approach.

🌞 Ready to Support Your Skin from the Inside Out?

Serving patients in Las Vegas, Summerlin, and Henderson, we offer care that’s time-rich, personalized, and backed by science. Whether you’re seeking help for acne, sun damage, or anti-aging strategies—we’ve got you covered.

📍 Las Vegas Integrative Dermatology