It is now scientifically proven that vitamins can profoundly impact your physical appearance as they are the micronutrients that different organs of our body need to function properly. They enter the bloodstream and provide the necessary nourishment to the skin, but applying vitamins topically in the form of serums, creams, and lotions is also important. So, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that vitamins can also help in achieving youthful and healthy skin from the inside out.
From popular vitamins to under-the-radar rescuers, this guide discusses the best vitamins for your skin-care routine.
1. Vitamin A
Vitamin A is one of the best vitamins that delay skin aging, also known as retinoid in skincare terms. It is a popular molecule best known for reprogramming cells and influencing them to act in a certain way that supports skin balance and elasticity. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also approved Vitamin A as an anti-wrinkle agent that can improve skin appearance.
This anti-aging vitamin reduces visible signs of aging, like fine lines, pores, redness, and dehydration, by using its skin-renewal function. It also decreases the appearance of dark spots as it can normalize the action of tyrosinase, an enzyme that synthesizes melanin.
The natural sources of Vitamin A are carrots, sweet potatoes, acai, and squash. However, prescription creams and lotions with retinol also speed up the skin renewal process. Make sure you begin with low concentration, as many patients are put off by the adjustment period associated with using such a potent vitamin.
We suggest Skin Medica’s Retinol Complex, which combines a 0.25% concentration of pure retinol for starters, as going big on the percentage increases the risk of irritation. Once your skin gets comfortable, increase the retinol level up to 0.5% to 1%, depending on the skin’s response.
2. Vitamin B3
Vitamin B3, aka niacinamide and niacin, is a compound that is a highly famous ingredient in drugstore skin care products. It is a great topical agent found in face serums and creams. If you have oily and acne-prone skin, niacinamide will regulate sebum production, and its anti-inflammatory properties will soothe the skin. This water-soluble vitamin strengthens the skin barrier and keeps the moisture locked in, making skin plump, hydrated, and smooth.
The strong skin barrier also keeps the damaging irritants away from the skin, meaning less oil and dirt clog your pores. It also supplies energy to the cells to treat post-acne dark spots and even the skin tone.
3. Vitamin C
Be it homemade face masks or physician-recommended beauty serums, Vitamin C, aka L-ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant that can tackle various skin issues. It boosts the natural production of collagen and controls the formation of melanin which lightens and brightens the skin tone while fading the dark spots. Vitamin C is abundantly found in citrus fruits, strawberries, mango, and pineapple.
Our BB healthcare professionals recommend technologically advanced Vitamin C products, thanks to the formula developed by ZO Skin Health, as they created two highly powerful Vitamin C products for pigment control and skin brightening.
4. Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that moisturizes, soothes, and maintains a healthy skin barrier to improve hydration. People with dry and cracked skin must include vitamin E in their skin care regimen as it hydrates the skin and prevents skin from breaking out. It can absorb UV light and provide photoprotection to the skin. It synthesizes collagen and elasticity, thus promoting skin rejuvenation and skin building. When combined with Vitamin C, it works as a strong antioxidant and targets free radicals. Try our Vitamin C + E Complex by Skin Medica and enjoy youthful skin texture protected from long-term damage caused by sun exposure and aging.
This vitamin has amazing healing properties and can also be used topically to soothe inflamed and burned skin. This is why skincare companies use it as a key ingredient in skin and body care products. Natural vitamin E sources are almonds, olive oil, avocados, and sunflower seeds.
5. Vitamin B5
Last but not the least, Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, is a great Vitamin for skin and hair. When applied in the form of creams and lotions on the skin, it works as a soothing agent, and its moisturizing properties provide calming benefits.
It is a great Vitamin that patients with dry or irritated skin must add to their skin care regimen. Not only for the skin but Vitamin B5 can be applied topically for voluminous hair growth. Eat more mushrooms, broccoli, and avocados if you are fond of getting vitamins and minerals from natural sources.
Author Bio
Brittney Burnworth, MSN, APRN-FNP, is the founder and owner of BB Aesthetic Medical Spa, Ohio. She knows the science and art of beauty, health, and wellness. Board Certified as an MSN, APRN-FNP, Brittney combines sound medical expertise with exciting aesthetic innovations.
