It’s time to talk about skin. With so much focus on which skincare products to use and which facial treatments to try, it’s easy to forget that healthy skin isn’t just about what you put on it. I’m speaking from personal experience—despite having access to various skincare products, I still struggled with acne, and my skin didn’t always look perfect. The truth is, serums, creams, masks, and facial oils can only do part of the job because, quite literally, what’s on the inside counts.
According to certain experts, store-bought skincare products provide only 50% of what’s needed for healthy skin. That’s why it’s crucial to treat the skin from the inside out and recognize it as an organ with two sides. Additionally, all our internal organs affect the skin, so taking care of them, along with a proper diet, plays a significant role in skincare.
Yes, supplements may not offer that “instant” satisfaction, and you won’t see immediate results on your skin like you do with serums and boosters. However, after a while, you’ll notice fewer breakouts, smoother, and more radiant skin.
This is a true indication that even if you don’t see immediate results like with some products, it doesn’t mean the supplements you’re taking aren’t working “behind the scenes.” Every supplement is unique, and it can take up to three months for the results to become visible.
Finding the right supplements may seem like a daunting and overwhelming task, given the wide variety available with different properties and benefits. That’s why we’ve highlighted the ones most commonly used and recommended.
Omega Supplements
The easiest way to explain the function of omega supplements is that they act like a moisturizer for the inside of your body. Omega supplements support all skin types but are often recommended for people with dry skin or those whose skin changes during the winter.
In addition to improving hydration, omega-3 supplements have been proven to reduce overall inflammation, which is beneficial if you struggle with redness. They can also reduce acne breakouts.
The omega supplements to look for are those containing linoleic acid (omega-6 fatty acid), primarily found in plant oils. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (omega-3 fatty acids) are found in fish oil.
Zinc
Zinc is often praised for its immune-boosting properties, but it’s also a vital ingredient for wound healing and as an antioxidant—exactly what you want for your skin. Skin uses zinc to produce special cells (keratinocytes) that produce keratin. Like collagen, keratin gives skin elasticity and strength. This means zinc can help repair damaged skin, making it an effective supplement if you’ve had long-standing skin issues (scars and inflammation).
Probiotics
If there’s one thing nutritionists and skincare experts agree on, it’s the connection between gut health and skin. A healthy gut is essential for all skin types, and probiotics can help your skin glow. They work by encouraging the growth of healthy bacteria. You should also consider prebiotics, which serve as food for probiotics and support the health of the bacteria in the skin’s microbiome.
Collagen
You’ve probably heard of collagen. There are numerous capsules, powders, and liquids that claim to boost collagen production. However, unlike some other supplements discussed, collagen has almost no effect when applied directly to the skin but collagen for skin health is an absolute must.
Collagen is a molecule too large to be absorbed transdermally, meaning applying it to your face won’t reduce wrinkles or improve skin elasticity. This explains why collagen is such a popular supplement—it covers all aspects of skincare related to aging and fine lines. Our bodies start losing collagen in our 30s, and as our bodies slow down, the signs of aging become more visible. You can also try non-surgical methods to combat wrinkles and keep your skin firm, Profhilo filler is one good option for that.
Vitamin A
In skincare, vitamin A is often known as retinol, but it can be just as effective when taken as a supplement. Vitamin A is known for doing many things for the skin, from helping prevent acne to promoting natural hydration.
It is also essential for cell development and helps in the process of transforming stem cells into other types of cells, which can help maintain normal skin function. When applied to the skin, retinol can cause redness, irritation, and even peeling, so it’s not recommended to layer it with other active ingredients. That’s why it’s not always easy to incorporate it into a skincare routine. There aren’t many supplements that contain solely vitamin A, so you’ll usually find it in vitamin complexes.
Vitamin C
Chances are you’re already using vitamin C in your daily skincare routine, but this powerful antioxidant is just as important when taken orally. Vitamin C helps build capillary walls and also increases oxygen throughout the body, which is essential for boosting energy. This, in turn, aids in skin repair, making it great for cell renewal.
Just as vitamin C serums are recommended for those who notice fine lines and sagging skin, vitamin C supplements are recommended to improve these same issues, thanks to its antioxidant properties. Vitamin C also aids in collagen production, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and even out your skin tone.
Supplements can be a fantastic way to boost your skin’s health from the inside out, especially when combined with a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and plenty of hydration. By focusing on key nutrients like vitamins C, E, biotin, and omega-3s, you can support your skin’s natural radiance and ensure it stays glowing year-round. However, remember that supplements are just that—a supplement to your overall health. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new regimen to ensure it’s the right choice for your individual needs.
Taking care of your skin isn’t just about what you apply on the surface—it’s about nurturing your body from within.
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