Supplements for Optimal Skin Health
For decades, skincare lines have been advertising and selling expensive topical concoctions that promise younger-looking skin. Research suggests that vitamins C, E, A, and zeaxanthin play important roles in supporting skin health when consumed as part of a balanced diet and lifestyle†.
Skin aging is caused by two distinct processes—natural or “intrinsic” aging, caused simply by the passage of time, and environmental aging. Lifestyle factors such as smoking and exposure to environmental pollutants accelerate environmental aging and can have a marked impact on skin function and appearance.
Exposure to chronic ultraviolet radiation from sunlight is also a major environmental factor that prematurely damages our skin. Consuming vitamins C, A, E, and zeaxanthin in your diet and/or through supplements supports healthy skin in the presence of environmental stressors†.
Natural Vitamin C Supplement
Vitamin C support for immune and antioxidant health. Includes complementary nutrients to support daily intake.
$32.48 Add to cartUnderstanding Sun-Damaged Skin
The skin is the largest organ in the body, and after years of sun exposure, the damage begins to show. When ultraviolet light hits the skin, it can damage the skin cells. When too much damage occurs, it can lead to cancers such as squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma or the deadliest of all, melanoma.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation:
- A person’s risk for melanoma doubles if he or she has had more than five sunburns in their lifetime
- Regular daily use of an SPF 15 or higher sunscreen can reduce the risk of developing melanoma by 50 percent
Cooper Clinic’s board-certified dermatologists recommend wearing a daily sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater.
Vitamin C Supplement For Improving Skin Elasticity
Vitamin C plays an important role in producing collagen, which provides structure and elasticity in the skin†. Transported into cells from the blood vessels in the dermal layer, vitamin C is the most plentiful antioxidant in human skin.
This potent antioxidant helps support the body’s natural response to oxidative stress from environmental pollutants and ultraviolet exposure†. Research shows vitamin C levels are lower in aged or sun-damaged skin or even in skin that has been exposed excessively to pollutants and UV rays†.
Vitamin C benefits include:
- Supports collagen production important for skin structure†
- Helps support the skin’s antioxidant defenses†
- Supports skin hydration and moisture balance†
- Contributes to normal connective tissue function†
Cooper Complete Basic One has 150 mg, and Original has 500 mg. In addition, Natural Vitamin C Supplement contains 850 mg of vitamin C, plus bioflavonoids to support cells and immune support†,
Vitamin A and Skin Health Support†
Vitamin A helps speed up cell turnover, which occurs when new skin cells move from the deepest layer of the skin to the surface, causing dead skin to shed†. It also supports normal cell turnover and skin renewal, which in turn can give skin a healthy glow†.
Vitamin A can be consumed through your diet and through supplementation. Cooper Complete Basic One contains 600 mcg (2,000 IU), and Original has 900 mcg (3000 IU) of vitamin A.
Vitamin E Supplement To Counteract The Effects of UV Light Exposure†
Yet another powerful antioxidant, vitamin E helps support antioxidant activity against free radicals and environmental stressors†. This fat-soluble, essential nutrient also supports a healthy inflammatory response†. UV light, sun exposure and the aging process reduce vitamin E levels in the skin†. While available in both natural and synthetic supplement forms, natural vitamin E is more potent†.
The amount of vitamin E needed is based on your age. According to the National Institutes of Health, teens, adults and pregnant women should consume approximately 15 milligrams per day. Most people in the United States, where healthy food is available, get enough vitamin E from food. Those with conditions such as cystic fibrosis or Crohn’s disease that affect their ability to digest or absorb fat may need more vitamin E. Talk to your doctor, especially if you have underlying health conditions, about your use of vitamin E supplements before taking them.
Vitamin E benefits include:
- Supports skin hydration and moisture balance†
- Supports the skin’s moisture barrier†
- Supports a healthy inflammatory response in skin†
- Supports normal circulation†
- Supports the skin’s response to environmental stressors†
Collagen Complex Supplement
Collagen support for healthy skin, hair, and joint tissues.
$65.98 Add to cartZeaxanthin Supplement To Benefit Skin Tone and Texture†
One of the most common carotenoids (antioxidants) found in food, zeaxanthin, gives plants and foods their characteristic yellow and red colors. Many foods, such as spinach, mustard greens, broccoli, pumpkin, winter squash, spirulina, and egg yolks, contain zeaxanthin. If your plate is colorful, chances are good you’re eating enough of this carotenoid to reap the health benefits.
Zeaxanthin benefits include:
- Supports skin antioxidant activity†
- Helps support skin hydration and texture†
- Supports the skin’s response to environmental stressors†
Collagen To Benefit Skin Elasticity†
Studies suggest collagen peptides may help support skin hydration, elasticity, and connective tissue structure when consumed regularly†. Cooper Complete Collagen Complex Supplement provides a blend of collagen peptides designed to support joint health, bone health, and skin structure as part of a balanced wellness routine†.
Remember, your doctor understands your health profile best, so it’s important to consult your health care provider about which supplements are best for you.
About the Author: Cathy Sides is the Director of Customer Relations for Cooper Complete® nutritional supplements. Since joining Cooper Aerobics in 2007, she has helped customers make informed decisions about supplements. Cathy also contributes blog content focused on vitamins, supplements, and healthy living.