Consumer awareness of specific active ingredients and the benefits of clean, natural formulation have been trending topics throughout 2021. Mindy Body Green detailed some of the best vitamins and bioactives to look for in skin care.
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Vitamin C
Vitamin C is common in skin care and considered one of the essential ingredients for defending the skin against free radicals and stimulating collagen production, according to dermatologist Dendy Engelman, M.D.
It is recommended to apply vitamin C topically so it can be absorbed quickly, but it also has internal benefits when taken as a supplement. According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and cited by Mind Body Green, higher vitamin C intake is associated with less wrinkled skin. It's also been shown to combat oxidative stress in cells.
Vitamin A
Retinoids are the most common forms of vitamin A for the skin. Regular use of retinol can stimulate cell turnover, stimulate collagen production, reduce dark spots, and unclog pores. It is one of the most important topical ingredients for skin, according to Engelman.
Vitamin A is also a lesser-known skin supplement is oral vitamin A. The fat-soluble vitamin is an essential nutrient for the proper functioning of various systems throughout the body and natural regeneration for skin.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E can protect the skin against UV rays and neutralize free radicals, according to Engelman. It is best used alongside vitamins A and C to maximize the potential effects. When consumed as a supplement, vitamin E can assist in collagen production and structure.
Astaxanthin
This antioxidant is more effective at neutralizing free radicals than vitamin C, according to Engelman. It can improve skin elasticity and appearance by increasing hydration levels. According to studies cited by Mind Body Green, using Astaxanthin as a supplement can improve skin elasticity and smoothness while reducing skin wrinkles and age spots.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a fat-soluble compound that allows the body to naturally produce energy. Natural production levels decline with age but applying it in a skin care formulation can improve levels found in skin cells. It is a very popular skin care ingredient for its ability to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Taking as a supplement provides full-body benefits, including reducing oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation. CoQ10 protects the membranes of mitochondria and regenerates other antioxidants, like vitamins C and E, according to the article.
Vitamin B5
Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, is an emollient that can assist in treating naturally dry skin. It is commonly found in serum, gels and creams and can reduce blemishes and irritation, according to Engelman. As a supplement, it can potentially promote skin barrier function and anti-inflammatory properties, but more research is needed.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide is popular for its effectiveness while also being gentle enough for every skin type. It has anti-inflammatory properties, treats pigmentation, regulates oil production, evens skin tone and bossts ceramide production, according to the article. As a supplement, it is known as vitamin B3 and can assist in cellular energy production and mitochondrial health.
