Your skin is not only the largest organ of your body, it is also among the most hard working, defending against pathogens and detoxifying waste. Your facial skin is no exception, so it is not surprising that facial skin---which thins as it ages---is increasingly prone to wrinkles. Many people turn to vitamins to reduce fine lines, treat blemishes, and regain smooth, taut complexions. Supplementary vitamins can have side effects and interfere with prescription medications; you should get the go-ahead from your doctor before using them.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C plays a vital role in maintaining healthy facial skin. This potent antioxidant not only produces the enzymes that regulate collagen production, but it helps the skin repair and rejuvenate itself, restoring moisture and suppleness. By neutralizing free radicals---which speed up aging and attack stores of collagen and elastin---Vitamin C can help combat the effects of pollution and cigarette smoke, and reduce signs of aging. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center website, Vitamin C may also reduce effects of sun exposure. The usual supplementary dose is 500 to 1000 mg a day.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A---in the form of a non-prescription compound called retinol---can be used topically for facial lines and wrinkles, as well as acne control. Like Vitamin C, Vitamin A neutralizes free radicals and reduces signs of aging. You can increase your intake of beta carotene, a natural antioxidant provitamin which your body converts into Vitamin A, by snacking on apricots, carrots, winter squash, cabbage and beet greens. If you are taking supplemental Vitamin A, you should not take more than 2,670 I.U,, as megadoses can be toxic. Your doctor can recommend a dose that is right for you. Avoid using Vitamin A if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Vitamin B Complex
Vitamin B complex, which contains indispensable B vitamins like thiamine and niacin, helps the body metabolize fats and proteins. It also contains an all-important nutrient, biotin, which forms the basis of skin, nails and hair. Biotin occurs naturally in bananas, eggs and rice. B5, or pantothenic acid, also plays a vital role in healthy skin. According to the 1st Holistic website, pantothenic acid is necessary for the synthesis of fats and oils in the skin. Yogurt, leafy green vegetables, wheat germ, milk and cheese are good sources of pantothenic acid. Niacin---or Vitamin B3---has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities, and can be applied topically in a cream to make skin supple and resilient. Niacin is found in salmon, peanuts, lean red meat, and many breads and cereals.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E may help reduce the harmful effects of the sun on your skin. Like Vitamin C, Vitamin E reduces production of cancer-causing cells. According to the Herbal Vitality website, some studies showed that when Vitamins E and A are taken together, there is a 70 percent reduction in basal cell carcinoma, a common form of skin cancer. However, too much vitamin E can be harmful; you should not take over 400 IU a day, and you should consult your physician before use.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 is a nutrient that assists in stabilizing energy production in cells. Some people turn to CoQ10 for help with fine lines and wrinkles; preliminary research on CoQ10's wrinkle-fighting abilities is promising. According to Mayoclinic.com, some studies have shown that CoQ10 reduces fine wrinkles around the eyes, while being free of side effects; other studies showed that an application of CoQ10 before sun exposure protected the skin against damage.
