The Best Anti-aging Vitamins For Women

Many women equate aging with wrinkles. Skin aging is related to damaging molecules known as free radicals that affect the structure of skin cells, according to "Skin Therapy Letter." Antioxidants provide protection against free radical damage and protection against aging. The best anti-aging vitamins for women are the antioxidants beta-carotene, vitamin E and vitamin C.

Beta-Carotene

Beta-carotene is a form of vitamin A found in plant foods. It plays a role in the growth and repair of body tissue, in addition to being an antioxidant. While pure vitamin A in large doses can be toxic, beta-carotene is considered safe, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements, because the conversion of beta carotene to vitamin A decreases when stores are full.

When ingested, beta-carotene is converted to retinol. Retinol is a common ingredient found in many anti-aging creams because of its ability to prevent free radical damage, notes the Mayo Clinic. (Food sources of beta carotene include carrots, spinach, cantaloupe and apricots.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a lipid-based antioxidant found in the skin, according to "Skin Therapy Letter." Topical formulas of vitamin E protect women's skin against sun damage by protecting against ultraviolet B rays and reducing the number of sunburn cells, according to the authors of "Antioxidants Used in Skin Formulations."

In addition to protecting against sun damage, vitamin E in combination with vitamin C also prevents degradation or aging of the skin in women. However, Vitamin E supplements may be harmful to some people, according to Medline Plus. Women can adequately meet their needs through food. Sources of vitamin E include vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and leafy greens.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is important for skin, bones and connective tissue, reports Medline Plus. It plays a role in the formation of collagen and helps keep women's skin firm. Vitamin C is also protective against the damaging effects of the sun, according to the authors of "Antioxidants Used in Skin Care Formulations."

Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin and is not stored in the body; therefore women need to eat foods high in vitamin C on a daily basis to benefit from its anti-aging properties. Food sources of vitamin C include red and yellow peppers, strawberries, papaya and oranges.