Dry skin, which is sometimes called winter itch, is very common, especially during winter months when the humidity is low. Dry skin symptoms include itching and flaking, and may be alleviated by taking vitamins or herbal dietary supplements in addition to a healthy diet. As with most nutritional remedies, scientists often disagree on the necessity or benefits of dietary supplements, especially herbal products. When in doubt, consult a nutritionist or doctor.
Dry Skin Symptoms
As skin loses moisture, it can crack and become painful. Cracked skin is more vulnerable to infections. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, UMMC, dry skin is more common on the extremities and sides of the abdomen. You can reduce dry skin symptoms by using mild soaps that do not strip the skin of its natural oils when you bathe, reducing the length of time that you bathe or shower, and using skin moisturizers.
Oils
Healthy oils in your diet can supply you with sources of essential fatty acids, which are necessary for good health. Alpha-linolenic acid, which is changed by the body’s digestive functions into omega-3 fatty acids, is found is natural oils such as flax seed oil. Flax seed oil has traditionally been used as an oral supplement to treat dry skin and eczema, says UMMC. Additionally, a moderate amount of healthy oils in your diet are necessary for your body to be able to digest fat-soluble vitamins such as Vitamin A.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is good for vision, but also plays an important role in skin health. Vitamin A is actually several different compounds. One of these, retinol, is vital to skin, and vitamin A is so important that it is called the “anti-infective vitamin” because it promotes healthy skin, which allows the body to keep out many pathogens. Taking vitamin A supplements is a good way to ensure that you get enough of this important vitamin, but it is better to get it from your diet. Do not rely on pills alone to make your diet healthy. Foods containing vitamin A include dark green vegetables, carrots, liver, eggs, and fortified milk and cereals.
Vitamin B Complex
Vitamin B is actually a complex of several nutrients. Of the B vitamins, Vitamins B-2, or riboflavin, vitamin B-6 and niacin are most important in maintaining healthy skin. A deficiency of niacin in the diet affects the skin, digestive system and nervous system, notes the Linus Pauling Institute. A severe deficiency can lead to pellagra, which can result in death. The B vitamins are found in many foods, including meat and poultry, legumes, seeds and cereal grains.
Vitamin C
Dry skin can be a symptom of vitamin C deficiency. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, which means that your body does not store it and you must eat it every day. Vitamin C contributes to skin health by promoting the formation of collagen, a protein that is essential in the formation of scar tissue and healing wounds. Vitamin C is an antioxidant, reducing the damage from free radicals, which are byproducts of digestion. Fruits and vegetables are important dietary sources of vitamin C.
Lavender
Lavender has been used for centuries to treat skin problems. It can be applied directly to the skin or mixed with an oil, such as jojoba or grape seed oil, and massaged into the skin. Lavender can be found in many prepared soaps, bath oils and lotions. Although lavender is gentle, discontinue using it if it irritates your skin.
