Are you constantly admiring the flawless skin that the Korean actresses have? Are you also one of those adopting the 7 steps of the Korean skin care routine? But, do you also know there are natural supplements that can boost your skin complexion?
As much as putting topical skincare such as a series of creams, essences and serum may work wonders on the surface, the real secret to a natural glow also lies in what we feed our body with.
In this article, let’s explore the five common natural beauty supplements to nourish your skin!
How does our skin age?
Natural ageing of skin includes skin thinning, loss of oil production and moisture retention, leading to the appearance of wrinkled and drier skin. The loss of skin collagen is also an integral part of aging.
Collagen is a key protein that keeps the skin firm and supple. As the level decreases with age, the skin also loses its elasticity. The effects of skin aging often become prominent starting in the early 30s with fine facial lines and creases.
Other key factors such as over-exposure to sun, stress and even sleep positions may accelerate the aging process.
The Natural Beauty Supplements
Vitamin C
A well-known and powerful antioxidant, Vitamin C has multiple benefits to the skin.
How it works:
- Protects the skin as it can neutralise free radicals, the molecules that can damage skin cells and promote aging.
- Aids in collagen production to give the skin its firmness and elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines.
- Brightens the skin by inhibiting melanin production. Melanin is a substance in the body that produces pigment for the hair and skin. Decreased melanin level reduces dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
- Speeds up skin healing and repair, making it vital to minimise scars especially for acne-prone or eczema patients.
The sources:
- Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid) supplements
- Multivitamins with Vitamin C
- Fruits and vegetables rich with vitamin C such as citrus fruits
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is another powerful antioxidant for healthy skin.
How it works:
- Neutralises free radicals that damage the skin.
- Maintains skin hydration, as it strengthens the skin barrier, preventing water loss and keeping the skin soft and supple.
- Supports the skin’s healing process from sunburns or other forms of damage.
- Reduce scarring by promoting tissue repair.
- Shields the skin from sun’s ultraviolet (UV) damage.
The sources:
- Vitamin E Capsules
- Multivitamins with Vitamin E
- Food rich with vitamin E such as broccoli, spinach, nuts, seeds and more
- Vegetable oils such as sunflower, wheat germ, and safflower oils
Collagen
Collagen is a protein in the skin that keeps it firm and elastic. Its production declines as we age, leading to wrinkles and dry skin.
How it works:
- Restore skin hydration and elasticity for a youthful appearance.
- Repairs and regenerates damaged skin to reduce the visible signs of irritation.
The sources:
- Collagen peptides (hydrolysed collagen) powder – these collagens have been broken down into smaller molecules for easier absorption. You can take 5–10 grams daily and mixed with water or beverages, or otherwise directed by the brand.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats found in fish oil, flaxseed, and walnuts.
Other than being commonly known to support heart health, omega-3 fatty acids also play a crucial role in improving skin texture.
How it works:
- Keeps the skin’s lipid barrier intact to promote hydration and keep irritants out. This prevents skin dryness and irritation.
- Reduces inflammation, hence can soothe irritated or inflamed skin conditions such as eczema.
- Protects the skin from sun damage by reducing the sensitivity to the ultraviolet (UV) rays.
The sources:
- Omega-3 fish oil capsules
- Flaxseed oils supplement
- Fatty fishes such as salmon, tuna or mackerel
Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral for skin repair.
How it works:
- Supports skin cell regeneration and wound healing to reduce the severity of the scars and restores a smooth complexion.
- Strengthens the skin barrier to reduce risk of skin infections.
- Regulates the production of skin oil called sebum, keeping pores clear. This is beneficial for those with acne-prone skin due to clogged pores.
- Reduces inflammation, especially for eczema patients who experience itch from the inflamed skin.
The sources:
- Zinc picolinate capsules
- Food rich with zinc such as seafood, beef and nuts
Using Supplements for Your Best Skin
Supplements can be a powerful ally in the quest for beautiful skin. Each of these supplements provides unique benefits to promote skin health.
Combining these supplements may yield the best results. Some supplements available in the market combined several individual supplements into one, offering an excellent option for those who are not keen swallowing too many pills.
With the right combination of internal nourishment from the natural supplements and external skin care routine, you may achieve a healthier skin. Having good skin is definitely a booster to one’s self-esteem and confidence!
Always consult your doctor or pharmacist to determine the most suitable supplements for you, especially if you have dermatological conditions such as eczema and acne.
