When the sun is out you are told to liberally apply the sunscreen to protect yourself from the harmful rays of the sun. Certainly the sun can cause health issues but it is also the best source of vitamin D and sunscreen stops your body from absorbing this vital vitamin. In fact, many sunscreens have a variety of chemicals in which may be harmful to the skin. Even your skin may get damaged due to other environmental factors.
So you need a solution that can protect your skin from sun damage and harm of sunscreen as well. Research is now suggesting that there are key vitamins and supplements which you should be consuming to ensure your skin stays healthy and can assist with minimizing damage from the sun. Here go some of the vitamins and supplements that can help your skin from the sun and other kinds of environmental damages:
Vitamin C & D3
There is now some evidence which suggests that taking approximately 5000 IU a day of vitamin D3 can protect against sunburn and potentially even skin cancer. Vitamin C on the other hand, is essential to the human body; it acts as an anti-inflammatory and boosts your immune system. Research has also shown that this vitamin, combined with vitamin E and selenium can help prevent the skin from being damaged by the sun and reduce the risk of skin cancer. Studies have also shown that this combination of vitamins can also reverse some of the effects of aging, such as wrinkles and discoloration of the skin. The vitamins assist the body in repairing damaged skin and protect against future damage.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 is a natural antioxidant which occurs in the body and helps cells to grow whilst protecting them from the effects of cancer. It has been shown that levels of this antioxidant in your body drop as you age and this is why the skin starts to age. Applying a cream with Coenzyme 10 in will help to reduce the effects and minimize damage.
Alpha-lipoic Acid
Studies have been completed into this supplement and they indicate that applying a cream with between 3% and 5% of the Alpha-lipoic Acid substance will reduce the effects of sun damage on your skin. This cream should be applied every other day and slowly built to ensure your skin can tolerate a daily application.
Retinoic Acid
Retinoic acid is an ingredient used in many anti-aging creams; it is the active form of vitamin A; a vitamin that is vital to normal bodily functions. It has been shown to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and it assists in restoring the elastic fibers which help the skin to stay taut and springy instead of starting to sag.
Cod Liver Oil
Cod liver oil has been associated for many years with a good digestive system and oral health. Research now suggests that it is also beneficial, if taken daily, for supplementing the body’s natural defense against sunburn. It can be purchased in capsule form and taken daily. Some users report doubling the dosage is particularly effective for those with fair skin.
Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin is another antioxidant which, it has been suggested, will act as an internal sunscreen. It has also been linked with reducing the appearance of aging although there is a limited amount of research to confirm this claim. It can be consumed for long-term anti-ageing benefits.
B Vitamins
Vitamin B is present in many different foods. Prime sources are chickens, eggs and fortified grain products. It is essential for building and maintaining all the cells in the body, including the skin cells. A deficiency of this vitamin will lead to dry, itchy skin; an adequate amount of this vitamin daily will ensure your skin stays soft. B6 is also in many creams and this has been shown to help protect against sun-induced skin damage. So it can be consumed for multi-skin benefits.
It is important to remember that vitamins and supplements (e.g. vegan EPA/DHA) which are taken will help to keep your body healthy and protect your skin. These same vitamins are present in a variety of cosmetic applications, but it is not known if the effects of these are as significant as vitamins and supplements taken internally. For the best results, you should ensure you have the recommended daily amount of all essential nutrients. It is suggest using these vitamins under the prescription of an expert medical professional.
There are so many ways you can use to protect your skin from the damaging sun and damage from other factors. It is important to know what your skin need and go for the best option. While some only use creams with high SPF factors, others would rather turn to supplementation, just to be sure that their skin and body are 100% protected.
By Jason Phillips and Nuique.com!