We are bombarded with adverts for skin and hair care products on a daily basis. But what you feed your skin and hair from within is just as important as what you put on it.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is essential proper skin function. It’s needed for a process called desquamation which is the shedding of old skin cells. If you don’t get enough, skin can start to look dry and scaly or old skin cells can block pores leading to a higher chance of spots and zits! Vitamin A is found in small amounts in egg yolk and liver but it can also be made from beta carotene which is found in abundance in orange and green leafy vegetables.
Biotin
Biotin is part of the B complex vitamins. If you don’t get enough it can lead to thinning of hair, scaly skin, and brittle nails. Getting adequate amounts is associated with increased nail and hair thickness and strength. But overdoing biotin supplements won’t give you a luscious locks overnight. Instead, reach for biotin-rich foods including eggs, vegetables and nuts.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is needed to make the protein, collagen, which is important for wound healing and skin strength. It also helps to mop up free radicals such as those found in cigarette smoke, pollution, and caused by UV rays from the sun. Vitamin C rich foods include berries, citrus and dark green leafy vegetables.
Zinc
Research shows zinc is important for skin healing especially in acne, psoriasis, and dermatitis. Having adequate zinc in your diet is also important for preventing hair loss. We get most of our zinc from high-protein foods such as meat, fish, and nuts. Vegetarians and vegans may need an extra boost, but you can also find zinc in beans, mushrooms, and spinach.
Botanical Pharmacy stock two creams which are excellent for skin. The Beauty Elixir Cream and Rose Facial Cream both contain vitamin C, Aloe for calming and hydrating and essential oils for plumping and hydrating the skin.
