8/27/10
Vitamins for Good Skin
Remember, your skin reflects what is going on inside your body and all skin conditions, from wrinkles and psoriasis to acne and aging, are the expressions of your body's internal needs, including its nutritional needs. The loudest buzz in the society is about antioxidants that can completely change your looks. Some specific nutrients are capable of making a difference in the way your skin looks and feels and even in how well it ages. You should feed your skin not from outside, but from inside. A balanced diet and dietary supplements can help keep your skin looking not only healthy, but also many years younger. According to the latest information from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), the following vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other nutrients nourish your skin. You may incorporate foods containing these nutrients in your diet, take the supplements or apply them directly to you skin. If you ask 'what vitamins are good for healthy skin', the answer is 'all'. But especially, vitamins A, B, C and E are considered as vitamins good for healthy skin.
Vitamin C and Vitamin E
Amongst all vitamins for healthy skin, Vitamin C and vitamin E are considered as the most important vitamins. As your skin is exposed to sun, winds, snow, rain, heat and cold, wear and tear is an unavoidable factor. These vitamins prevent serious consequences of prolonged exposure, by reducing the damage caused by free radicals, a destructive byproduct of sunlight, smoke, and pollution. Free radicals affect collagen and elastin, the fibers that support skin structure, resulting in wrinkles and other signs of aging. Tanning can cause skin cancer and if you get enough of these antioxidant vitamins, then you can keep your skin healthy and glowing forever.
Citrus fruits and many vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, cauliflower and leafy greens are rich in vitamin C. Read more on foods with vitamin C. Vitamin C supplements, up to 500 to 1,000 milligrams of per day can be taken under the guidance of your physician. The creams which contain these vitamins for good skin can encourage collagen production.
Vitamin E is present in creams, lotions, oils, etc. and helps to soothe rough dry skin. Vitamin E is naturally present in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, olives, spinach, asparagus, etc. Read more on foods high in vitamin E. You can take supplements also. 400 international units per day or less are considered as safe. Overdose of vitamin C and E can lead to serious health hazards. Here follows the information regarding other vitamins for healthy skin.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A maintains and repairs skin tissues. Deficiency of vitamin A can lead to dry flaky complexion. Vitamin A plays an important role in reducing lines and wrinkles, controlling acne and also offers some psoriasis relief. Most of the fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamin A. Foods rich in beta carotene, a form of vitamin A, can reduce the risk of psoriasis. Read more on beta carotene foods.
Vitamin B Complex
The most important B vitamin, biotin, is the basic component of skin, nail and hair cells. Deficiency of this vitamin can cause dermatitis or itchy, scaly skin, hair loss. This is the vitamin good for skin and hair. Creams containing vitamin B can help hydrate skin cells and increase overall skin tone instantaneously. Niacin, another B vitamin, helps skin in retaining moisture and helps you get a smooth complexion. The anti-inflammatory properties of niacin can help soothe dry, irritated skin. If taken in higher concentrations, it works great for blotchy skin tone. Read more on benefits and side effects of biotin and niacin benefits.
Vitamin K
The last but not the least amongst the vitamins for good skin is Vitamin K which works well to reduce dark circles under the eyes and bruises.
This was about vitamins for good skin. But consuming these vitamins or applying these vitamins to the skin is not sufficient to get glowing skin. It is also necessary to avoid intake of food items that can be harmful for the skin. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with the help of diet, regular exercises, good eating habits and following a good skin care routine, is extremely important to obtain healthy, glowing skin.
