We often hear about the vitamins we should be taking or getting through the food we eat, but what about the vitamins that we should put on our skin? Scientific studies have proven a number of vitamins to be very helpful in fighting signs of aging when applied topically (directly onto the skin). This article discusses five of the top vitamins used in age fighting skin care: vitamins A, B3, C, E and K.
Vitman A is a powerhouse when it comes to anti-aging ingredients. Vitamin A has been scientifically proven to be the only chemical capable of reprogramming a skin cell that has already been changed or damaged. This means that using products containing vitamin A can not only protect against future skin damage, but it can normalize the skin’s function and correct existing sun and age spots!
Vitamin A derivatives are antioxidants, and they work to counteract damage caused to the skin by free radicals. So when vitamin A is applied to the skin, it helps to create healthier cells while stimulating collagen production which leads to firmer, stronger and smoother skin. It increases blood flow and circulation, which leads to a more even skin tone.
Vitamin B3 is also called niacinamide or nicotinamide. Niacinamide has been shown to be effective and well tolerated
by all skin types. For aging skin, vitamin B3 is beneficial in a number of ways: it improves the skin’s moisture barrier, boosts collagen production, strengthens the outermost layer of skin and reverses dark spots.
Vitamin C is a highly effective antioxidant, fighting off free radicals. It too, stimulates collagen production, which leads to a firm foundation and support structure for the skin. This means less saggy skin to worry about. Studies have also shown that vitamin C can reduce or reverse damage caused by UV exposure, lightening or eliminating the appearance of sun spots on the skin.
Dermatologists love vitamin C, as many state that it helps to increase the effectiveness of their in-office treatments, such as skin peels and microdermabrasion. Vitamin C has also been shown to work in tandem with vitamin E to boost sunscreen’s protection factor, so look for products that combine these two vitamins.
Vitamin E, in addition to being a great partner to vitamin C for sun protection, has certainly earned its nickname, ‘the protector’. It not only protects against free radicals and protects collagen and fibroblasts, but also deeply moisturizes the skin and reduces inflammation. This means that if you want to eliminate dry, wrinkled and leathery skin, then you need to use products containing vitamin E.
Last but not least is vitamin K, also known as phytonadione. It has been widely researched and used in the treatment of under eye circles, skin discolorations and rosacea. Vitamin K helps constrict blood vessels underneath the thin under eye skin, which lightens up dark circles. Vitamin K also has some anti-inflammatory properties, which is why it is recommended to patients to use before and after facial surgeries to clear bruising and speed up the skins’ healing process.
Each of these vitamins can work to fight the common signs of aging. If you really want to have younger looking skin, then look for products that contain these powerful vitamins.
Pat White MSN PMh NP-BC
Clinical Aromatherapist
