The primary function of the skin is to act as a barrier to protect the body from damage and invasion. To do this job effectively it need to be both strong and stretchy.
Collagen is a protein found in skin that is key the key to skins strength. To produce collagen the body needs a good supply of amino acids from protein as well as vitamin C.
The skin is also constantly exposed to free radicals from pollution and radiation. Antioxidants that can protect the skin from these assaults are therefore important for long term skin health. Vitamin E which is found in nuts and seeds, carotenes in green, orange and red fruit and vegetables and flavonoids found in berries can all help to protect the skin from free radical damage.
Finally in order to do its job properly it’s critical that skin cells knit together to form an effective barrier and can mend and shed effectively. To do this skin cells require healthy levels of omega fats, zinc for wound healing and vitamin A to properly regulate skin turnover.