Dry skin or xerosis isn't a serious issue but can result in fine lines or wrinkles. Some dry skin conditions, such as ichthyosis, may lead to psychological distress. Fortunately, there is a selection of vitamins you can supplement into your daily diet that will provide relief for dry and cracking skin.
Causes
Most cases of dry skin are caused by your surrounding environment or a disease. Weather plays an important role in your skin as it is the driest during the winter, when temperatures are colder. According to MayoClinic.com, the winter season may worsen existing skin conditions. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays may also contribute to dry skin development, as it reduces the production of collagen and elastin fibers, causing wrinkles and saggy skin.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps grow and repair tissues in your body and is essential for the production of an important protein collagen, which is used to manufacture skin. Vitamin C is an antioxidant vitamin, helping to reduce the formation of free radicals -- dangerous molecules that may enhance the aging process, leading to wrinkles and fine lines and potentially causing dry skin as free radicals can make your skin very brittle. To help prevent dry skin, consume vitamin C every day through foods such as green peppers, blueberries, winter squash, potatoes and oranges. Having an adequate supply of vitamin C in your body is important as low levels of vitamin C intake can result in dry, cracking and scaly skin.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is also an antixoidant vitamin, helping to neutralize free radicals. Free radicals play a role in certain conditions, such as aging. Vitamin E helps prevent dry and cracking skin by keeping your skin hydrated and fresh. In addition, vitamin E is necessary for a boost in blood circulation, resulting in the growth of skin cells and tissues. Vitamin E can be found in foods such as wheat germ, sunflower seeds and corn.
Biotin
Although rare, a biotin deficiency may occur and can contribute to skin problems as low levels of biotin in your body can cause dry and scaly skin, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Biotin can be found in foods such as beans, cauliflower and mushrooms.
