When it comes to your skin health, understanding what you put in your body is just as important as what you put on your body. Just like you carefully research and select ingredients to add to your skincare routine, adding vital ingredients to your diet can boost your skin health from the inside out.
Skin supplements are an easy way to ensure you get certain nutrients. You might be familiar with some ingredients in beauty supplements, like collagen or biotin for hair, skin and nails. But what about antioxidants? Dermatologists have identified antioxidants as key ingredients to achieve healthy, radiant skin.
If you're considering skin supplements, learn more about the science behind the ingredients that can support your skincare routine.
The Role of Antioxidants in Skin Health
Antioxidants play an important role in skin, hair and nail health. They can help hydrate and protect the skin from the inside out. According to dermatologist Raja Sivamani, "Hydrated skin has more structural integrity and has a more elastic quality to it. There is a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well. Because of the plumper appearance, hydrated skin is truly healthier skin."
Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant and carotenoid that supports skin health by improving hydration. "Astaxanthin has been shown in studies to improve the hydration by pulling water into the superficial layers of the skin," said Sivamani. It also helps strengthen the skin barrier against environmental aggressors.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A supports bone formation, wound healing, immune system function and eye health. It also supports skin cell turnover and collagen production. Many prescription skin creams contain synthetic forms of vitamin A, a retinoid, which can help with acne and psoriasis and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a well-known antioxidant that can boost skin health. It repairs the skin barrier to keep out harmful pollutants. When paired with astaxanthin, the two work together to boost skin hydration.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E protects cells from damage and fights free radicals, which can support an even skin tone. Vitamin E also supports skin's moisture retention.
The Science Behind Ingredient Research and Product Development
Now that you know which antioxidants and vitamins are good for skin, it's time to find the right skin health supplement. Understanding the science-backed research and ingredient sourcing behind these products can help you find the best one for you.
Skincare Experts Lead the Way
Before skincare products come to market, they undergo significant research and development processes. Neutrogena® independent researchers and board-certified dermatologists evaluated over 1,000 ingredients to identify the top 10 bio-nutrients most linked to skin health. Using this information, Neutrogena®, alongside board-certified dermatologists, developed Skin Hydration Astaxanthin Gummies with Vitamin C and Clear Complexion Antioxidant Gummies with Zinc. Both products support healthier skin using vital antioxidants like astaxanthin, vitamin C, vitamin A and vitamin E.*
Neutrogena® carefully screened the ingredients in these supplements to ensure they meet quality, manufacturing and government regulations standards. Neutrogena® also reviewed the ingredients against published research and its own ingredient safety databases.
Ingredient Sourcing for Quality Products
You can take a few steps to ensure the skin supplement you choose is a safe, high-quality product.
Check 'Natural' Product Claims
Certain terms on personal care products, like "natural," aren't regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. If a product contains at least 95% organic ingredients, it will have an official USDA Organic seal. Check your products to ensure they're free of synthetics, parabens, phthalates and carcinogens.
Look for Ingredient Transparency
The more transparent a brand is about ingredient sourcing, the better. Thorough ingredient lists allow you to know exactly what's in the formulation, including any active ingredients and potential allergens.
Ask a Dermatologist
If you're unsure about product ingredients or how they might benefit your skin, talk with a trusted dermatologist. Make sure the products you're considering offer science-backed skincare benefits to support holistic skin health.
Achieving Healthier Skin With Science-Backed Ingredients
Everyone's skin is different and may require different ingredients to support skin health. Some people may need more hydration than others, particularly at different times of the year. But overall, skin experts agree that hydrated skin is healthy skin.
Taking an antioxidant-based skin supplement can improve skin health and hydration, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and give the skin a more plump and youthful look. If improving hydration is your primary focus, look for ingredients like astaxanthin and vitamin C. For a clearer complexion from the inside out, look for a supplement with vitamins A, C and E.
FAQ
How do supplements for skin work and are they safe to use?
Skin supplements are ingestible dietary supplements formulated with bio-nutrients to nurture the skin. They address nutrient deficiencies that are hard to get through diet alone, like astaxanthin. In general, they're considered safe to use. However, like all supplements, they aren't approved by the FDA. Talk with your doctor and dermatologist about adding a supplement to your routine.
Can ingredient sourcing affect the effectiveness of skincare products?
Now more than ever, consumers want safe, nontoxic skincare options. Monitoring heavy metals in ingredients can help with possible allergen cases and improve the overall safety of cosmetics.
How can I identify quality skincare products through ingredient lists?
Look for supplements that are plant-based, clinically tested, gluten-free, non-GMO and free of artificial sweeteners. Skincare formulation ingredients should be safe and contain clinically backed ingredients.
What is the connection between diet and clear, radiant skin?
Many studies have shown connections between diet and skin health. According to dermatologist Ted Lain, "Anything that's healthy for your body is healthy for your skin as well. Eating healthy foods, eating rainbow foods of all different colors and maintaining hydration by drinking plenty of water is going to be good for your skin."
How can I create a personalized skincare routine based on ingredients and supplements?
Talk with your dermatologist about your skin's specific needs.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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