A: Kiwifruit is more nutritious when eaten raw since cooking it decreases the vitamin content.

A: Vitamin C can encourage collagen synthesis, improve sun-damaged skin and protect the skin. But remember that this antioxidant is notoriously unstable, so it can spoil and become ineffective quickly. Watch out for changes in color, which can signal spoilage. Also, look for L-ascorbic acid, a form of vitamin C that can penetrate the skin.

A: Most people use the term “glycerin soap” to refer to transparent or clear soap. However, any soap made with natural ingredients — like lye and plant or animal oils — is really glycerin soap, according to David Fisher, About’s guide to candles and soap. Clear or transparent soaps contain other ingredients (sugars and alcohol), which prevent the soap from turning opaque.

A. Research shows that the body better absorbs lycopene from processed foods (such as tomato juice, salsa or tomato paste) as opposed to fresh fruits and vegetables. Also, because lycopene is fat-soluble, its absorption rate is increased when it’s eaten with oils. So consider creating a skin-smart pasta sauce by combining a small can of tomato paste with a few tablespoons of olive oil. Serve with whole-wheat pasta for a meal that’s steeped with skin-loving lycopene.