This story has been updated since it was originally published on Jan. 6, 2022.
Dry skin is one of the most common skin struggles, particularly in the cold winter months. Categorized by patchy, flaky areas on the skin and an uncomfortable tight sensation, it’s only natural to search for a solution in any form. While the first line of defense in fighting dry, cracked skin will most likely be your serum and lotion routine, focusing on your diet and supplement routine also has the potential to create visible changes in the texture of your skin. With that in mind, we checked in with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Lily Talakoub for her insight on the best vitamin to help support hydrated skin while brightening your complexion.
Vitamins E
Talakoub notes first and foremost that there is no vitamin that will genuinely transform chronically dry skin, and this will in large part come from your skincare routine. However, vitamins that contain fatty acids have been known to boost hydration in your complexion, subtly reducing the flakiness we all dread each winter. “Vitamins with fatty acids such as Alpha linoleic acid can increase the amount of moisture retained in the skin,” she explains. “Vitamin E also works to scavenge free radicals and prevent UV damage of the skin which destroys the collagen that helps support the moisture containing cells.”
While a hydrating skincare routine from the outside is most likely to penetrate the barrier and limit the appearance of dry, flaky patches on your complexion, integrating a fatty acid-based supplement into your daily routine will naturally help to bolster the amount of moisture your body can hold onto, creating a subtle improvement in your skin. “I recommend the HUM Nutrition Red Carpet Skin and Hair Health Supplement,” suggests Talakoub, adding that it may take between 3-6 months of regular consumption to see the results of new supplementation on the surface of your skin.
Although these vitamins can help give your skin a boost of hydration, it’s also vital to pair this habit with other routines that will improve your overall health. “It is important to combine a supplement with 60 oz of water a day as well as a gentle hydrating skin routine twice daily,” explains Talakoub. “Maintaining the moisture in the skin in the harsh, dry winter months is crucial to both hydrated, glowing, and wrinkle free skin.”
As easy as it would be if your diet and supplementation routine drastically improved the quality of your skin, it does take a holistic approach to wellness to make any real changes. Taking a supplement that is rich in fatty acids may help to bolster the amount of moisture your skin retains, but it will also require a hydrating external skincare routine as well as the consumption of plenty of water throughout the day in order to work most effectively. Taking good care of your skin in the winter in tandem with an ironclad routine to preserve your skin’s barrier and enhance hydration from within will ultimately create the most significant changes in your appearance, working together for visible results.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is essential for cell growth. Retinol products are over-the-counter anti-aging products derived from vitamin A. It's often used as a topical anti-aging treatment. Retinols have been clinically demonstrated to improve overall skin tone and skin elasticity. That means vitamin A, specifically retinol products, can help smooth wrinkles, plump the skin, reduce acne, and fix pigmentation. Wow, we need to get our hands on this ingredient ASAP!
But how does this anti-aging miracle ingredient work, exactly? "Retinol encourages cell regeneration as well as helps bind cells with moisture within the dermis, so the skin becomes plump," Au explains. "It also synthesizes collagen and elastin production, which is crucial for anti-aging. As collagen is replenished, old skin cells are shed, fine lines recede and skin begins to reveal a brighter, smoother texture." So, if you're looking for a product that can give your skin a fresh, youthful glow, check the label and look for the ingredient retinol, increase your vitamin A intake, or eat vitamin A-rich foods to boost your immunity.
