A yellow skin tone is perceived as most attractive and healthy looking, according to new research from St Andrews and Bristol Universities.
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Brighter and more yellow complexions were found to be most attractive during tests which involved volunteers digitally manipulating a selection of faces to look as healthy as possible.
‘The only natural way in which we can make our skin lighter and more yellow is to eat a more healthy diet high in fruit and vegetables.’ says Professor David Perrett from the University of St Andrews.
Yellowing pigments are called carotenoids and exist in foods such as carrots and plums.
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Melanin, the tanning pigment, also has the effect of making skin appear more yellow. However, the study found skin that appeared lighter and more yellow was ranked more attractive than the darker, so-called 'healthy glow’ of a tan.
‘In the West we often think that tanning is the best way to improve the colour of your skin’, says Ian Stephen from the University of Bristol. ‘But our research suggests that living a healthy lifestyle with a good diet might actually be better.’
So ditch the sunbeds and reach for the carrots and plums next time you want a healthy glow. Marie Claire is off to the green grocer...
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