Skin Nutrition

Common skin problems are usually treated with over-the-counter medication. These products contain a variety of man-made chemicals that appear in such low dosages that they cause no real effect.

When we go to our local drugstore and look for a product or treatment that will relieve our ailment. We usually ask the store attendant what he/she recommends, but do you really know what you’re buying? What makes things worse is that most products will have a long list of ingredients that are difficult to understand. However, here is a short list of vitamins that are common in skin care products and that may help you make a more informed decision.

The Important Role of Vitamins

Vitamin A. In an investigation that appeared in the British Journal of Dermatology, doctors found that nutrients high in beta-carotene — a form of vitamin A — reduced the risk of psoriasis.

Vitamin B Complex.Lately, greater attention is being paid to topical preparations containing B vitamins. These creams can help confer skin an almost instant healthy glow while hydrating cells and increasing general tone.

For the skin, the single most vital B vitamin is biotin, a nutrient that creates the basis of skin, nail, and hair cells. Without appropriate quantities, you may end up suffering dermatitis (an itchy, scaly skin condition) or sometimes even hair loss. Even a mild deficiency causes reactions.

Niacin, another specific B vitamin, helps skin hold humidity, so creams containing this nutrient can help your skin look better and younger in as little as 6 days. Niacin also has anti-inflammatory abilities to soothe dry skin. In stronger concentrations it can also act as a lightening agent to even out blotchy skin tone.

Vitamin K. As the element responsible for helping blood coagulate, Vitamin K won’t do much for your skin from the inside. But studies published in the American Academy of Dermatology in 2003 demonstrated that topical vitamin K works well to reduce circles under the eye as well as bruises. In study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology in 2002, doctors shown that skin therapies with vitamin K cream after laser surgery significantly reduced bruising. When combined with vitamin A in a product, vitamin K can be even more effective for those dark circles.

In a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, doctors from the Nippon Medical School in Tokyo shown that the topical use of a gel containing a derivative of vitamin K, as well as vitamins A, C, and E, was effective in reducing dark under-eye circles while also softening wrinkles.

Minerals Beneficial for Skin Nutrition

Selenium. Several scientists believe this mineral plays a key role in skin cancer avoidance. Taken in supplement form or used in a cream, this mineral helps protect skin from sun damage. If you do spend any time in the sun, selenium could help reduce your possibility of burning.

Copper. Still another crucial mineral is copper. In combination with vitamin C and zinc, copper helps in the production of elastin, the fibers that hold skin structure from below.

Zinc. The next mineral that is vital to skin repair is zinc especially if you have acne. In fact, sometimes acne itself is a symptom of a zinc deficiency. Administered internally or used topically, zinc works to clear skin by taming oil production and may be effective in regulating the appearance of acne lesions or help those already on your skin to clear sooner. Food sources of zinc are oysters, lean meat, and poultry.

By keeping in mind this short list of vitamins and minerals, picking the appropriate skin care products will be much easier.

Now you can enjoy a scarless and perfect skin thanks to the benefits of our newest skin moisturizing product, made with biological ingredients to ensure the best results.

- Claudia Truffello