Lifestyle

Protect Your Glow: Holistic Sun Care from the Inside Out

Aug 4, 2025

Hi, I'm Dawna!

Clinical Nutritionist, body-talk practitioner, and medical herbalist based in Folsom, CA but working with clients around the globe.

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You ever feel like the moment the sun comes out, your skin freaks out? Maybe it burns faster than it used to… or maybe your sunscreen feels more like a chemical bath than protection.

Let’s talk about what I actually do when I want to protect my skin, naturally. Spoiler: It’s not just about what goes on your skin. It’s what’s going on inside that really makes the difference.

As a Clinical Nutritionist and Medical Herbalist, I’ve seen firsthand how nutrition, hydration, and a few powerhouse supplements can build what I like to call your “inner SPF.” Here’s how I support my skin (and how you can too).

1. Antioxidants: Your First Line of Defense

These guys are like your skin’s internal bodyguard, helping fight off the oxidative stress caused by UV rays.

Here’s what I reach for:

  • Vitamin C – Berries, citrus, camu camu powder… I work this in daily. Bonus: it helps your body make collagen.
  • Vitamin E – I love tossing sunflower seeds on my salads or adding avocado to my smoothies.
  • Astaxanthin – This one’s underrated. I take it as a supplement or eat wild-caught salmon a few times a week. It acts like edible sun protection.

2. Omega-3s for Skin Resilience

Omega-3s are key for keeping your skin barrier strong and inflammation in check, especially if you’ve been in the sun a lot.

What I use:

3. Lycopene for Natural UV Protection

Lycopene is a sun-protective carotenoid (say that five times fast) that helps reduce the damage UV rays can do over time.

You’ll find it in:

  • Cooked tomatoes (think marinara sauce)
  • Watermelon
  • Red bell peppers

Tip: Pair with healthy fats like olive oil for better absorption.

4. Hydration: The Simplest Skin Fix

Dehydrated skin is more likely to get irritated, burned, or show signs of aging.

What I recommend:

  • Drink half your body weight in ounces of clean water daily
  • Add in herbal teas like hibiscus or calendula
  • Coconut water and electrolytes are great if you’re outdoors a lot

5. My Go-To Skin Support Supplements

This is where the magic happens for a lot of my clients. Here’s what’s usually in rotation:

  • Zinc Chelate or Zinc Complex – Helps your skin heal and adds a layer of internal protection
  • Polypodium Leucotomos – A tropical fern extract that boosts sun resilience over time
  • Collagen Peptides – Keeps skin bouncy and hydrated; I always take this with Zypan to help absorb it better

Topical? Yes (But Choose Wisely)

I’m not anti-sunscreen, but I am anti-toxin.

Look for:

  • Mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide (non-nano only)
  • Protective clothing and shade—a wide-brim hat is your best friend
  • Natural oils like raspberry seed or carrot seed as a base layer under sunscreen (not instead of it)

PS: If you’ve got tattoos, avoid putting mineral sunscreen directly on the ink. It can mess with the pigment over time.

Ready to protect your glow from the inside out?

Let’s build you a customized skin and nutrition plan that supports healthy aging, protects your glow, and keeps your skin feeling nourished (not stressed). Book a session today and visit my Favorites & Resources page to shop my favorite clean, skin-supportive supplements.

Medical Disclaimer: What I’ve shared with you here is not intended to be a substitute for a medical diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. Always seek the advice of your physician with any questions you may have regarding your own medical conditions.

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