As people age, their ability to make collagen decreases. Collagen keeps skin firm and hydrated, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. While the academy stresses sun protection and smoking cessation as two important steps to younger-looking skin, a healthy diet including specific vitamins is also important to fight the look of aging.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin you need to consume regularly to meet your body's nutritional needs. Vitamin C plays a role in the growth and repair of tissue, and most importantly is a component in the formation of elastin and collagen, proteins responsible for young skin. Vitamin C is also an antioxidant and may reduce the skin-damaging effects of UV radiation, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. A 2007 cohort study Maeve Cosgrove published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition investigated the relationship between diet and skin aging. The study concluded people with a high intake of vitamin C had fewer wrinkles and moister skin. Food sources of vitamin C include strawberries, peppers, tomatoes, cantaloupe, pineapples, blueberries, brussels sprouts and broccoli.
Beta Carotene
Beta carotene is a fat-soluble vitamin naturally present in many different fruits and vegetables. Beta carotene is converted to vitamin A in your body, according to the Mayo Clinic. Vitamin A is found in a number of topical anti-aging skin products. The Academy of Dermatology says beta carotene may help prevent aging by protecting collagen from breaking down from UV light, but further research is necessary. Food sources of beta carotene include carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, apricots and green peppers.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is also a fat-soluble vitamin with antioxidant properties. The antioxidant properties protect cell membranes and protect against aging, according to the Academy of Dermatology. Combining vitamin E with vitamin C has been shown to be even more affective in anti-aging, the academy continues. High doses of vitamin E are not recommended because they have been linked to basal cell cancer, the academy warns. Food sources of vitamin E include wheat germ, almonds, sunflower seeds, hazelnuts and peanut butter.
