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Including supplements in your diet can have a number of benefits that span further than simply improving your overall health. While supplements are most frequently known for supporting certain deficiencies, boosting your metabolism and aiding in weight loss, they can also have a profound effect on your skin. The right combination of supplements in tandem with a solid skincare routine can help to improve your complexion, bringing out the clear, youthful glow we’re all chasing at any age. You may be on the right track with your skincare, but prioritizing wellness is paramount for looking your best. So, according to dermatologists these are the three supplements you should be including in your daily routine to achieve naturally flawless skin.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant that can help to clear up acne and protect your complexion from free radical damage. “In fact the treatment known as Accutane is essentially a synthetic form of vitamin A, so it would make sense that supplementation with vitamin A would be of benefit to your skin. (However, if already taking Accutane, do not take vitamin A supplements),” reports Simply Derm. Particularly if you suffer from inflammation which may appear as acne, a vitamin A supplement can be useful in bringing out the best in your skin while reducing irritation.
Zinc
For those with acne prone skin, a zinc supplement may be just the thing you need to clear up your complexion, reducing breakouts and oil production over time. “While it can take several weeks to see an improvement, Joshua Zeichner, MD, of Zeichner Dermatology says that the continuous supplementation of zinc can help to reduce signs of acne,” explains Byrdie. “According to Zeichner, it reduces the amount of acne-causing bacteria on the skin, decreases inflammation in the follicles, and possibly lowers oil production.” Only a small amount of zinc is needed to get the job done--Zeichner suggests just 200mg, but warns to check with your doctor before starting any new supplement.
Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Fatty acids may be great for boosting your metabolism and helping with weight loss, but they also have the ability to improve the quality of your skin, clearing up breakouts and inflammation. Maggie Luther, ND, medical director and formulator at Care/Of tells Women’s Health about a study on omega-3’s and, “After 10 weeks, in both the omega-3 group and in the GLA [gamma-linolenic acid] group, supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions.”
