What’s your skin issue? Dryness? Dullness? Ageing? Let’s talk skin secrets. No, not swish beauty products that promise the world and empty the wallet, but the real inside story on gorgeous skin that glows with health.

Firstly, you need to make friends with good fats. So many people fear fat and believe eating fat makes you fat and that it’s bad for your heart. That’s not the case for good fats, which are especially loved by your skin. Enjoy avocados, quality cold-pressed olive oil, olives and nuts (unroasted and unsalted). Plus, omega three fat-rich cold-water fish like mackerel, sardines and salmon. Try to source wild-caught fish. Fresh is great, but tinned (in spring water) is also fine. Omega threes are especially important if you have eczema or psoriasis.

Are you dehydrated? So many of my clients are dehydrated and it shows as dull, grey and dry skin. Carry a water bottle filled with quality herbal tea or water with a splash of lemon or kom­bucha, or even just plain water. Your skin will thank you (as will your brain, often with better mood, focus and concentration).

Are you low in zinc? Many are. Zinc is an all-star nutrient and part of your body’s first aid kit. For any skin damage like breakouts, rashes, bruises etc., zinc will promptly show up at the site and quietly get on with the repair job. A dream tradesman! Good sources include red meat and sunflower and pumpkin seeds, but a supplement may be a good idea. Given the supple­ment industry is overflowing with well-marketed, but generally rubbish products, seek advice from an experienced health care practitioner before you buy.

Now, also essential for beautiful skin is good digestion and rubbish removal. If you are often bloated, gassy, sluggish and don’t have regular bowel movements, your digestive system is cranky and needs some TLC. Think about it: you put food into a body that’s around 37 degrees Celsius every day; you must be able to break it down efficiently, absorb what’s needed and get rid of the waste.

Laura Cini, an expert nutritionist, herbalist and naturopath, has over 20 years’ experience helping clients with their health issues. Visit lauraciniwellness.com or connect @lauraciniwellness.

Chocolate Avocado Mousse

This recipe ticks all the boxes: skin-nourishing, very low sugar, polyphenol rich (for happy gut bugs), quick and easy to make and absolutely delish. It truly is a dessert that will love you back.

Ingredients:

2 ripe avocados

½ cup coconut cream

¼ cup raw cacao powder

1 tablespoon chia seeds

2 teaspoons honey

1-2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Pinch sea salt

Quality dark chocolate: at least 70% (optional)

Method:

Whiz all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Scoop into small serving dishes. Chill in the fridge for at least two hours (if you can wait that long). Sprinkle with grated chocolate (optional).