Beauty From the Inside Out

by The Puritan's Pride Editorial Team

It’s easy to sit back and let the makeup do all of the hard work when it comes to the appearance of flawless skin; however, the condition of the skin’s appearance has a lot to do what is happening on the inside. Here are some key components that are necessary for keeping skin beautiful and radiant.

Collagen

This important protein is naturally occurring and comes in over ten forms, but three types make up the majority found in our bodies. These are types I, II and III. Collagen can also be found in foods that are rich in Vitamin C, such as oranges and grapefruit. Green foods like broccoli and kale are another natural source of collagen. Marine collagen is a protein derived from saltwater fish scales, like cod and salmon. This form of collagen has been used for years in Japan.

Water

There is no “one size fits all” approach to how much water is needed daily. Water intake on an individual basis depends on lifestyle factors such as activity levels, weight, and climate.

Here are five tips to increase water intake:

  • Eat foods with a high water content, like watermelon and tomatoes.
  • Set a timer or alarm with a reminder to drink water.
  • To enhance taste, add fruit slices like lemon or lime.
  • Use straws to slowly sip throughout the day.
  • Drink another type of water, like mineral water.

Biotin

Biotin is a water-soluble B-vitamin found in foods like almonds, liver, bananas, eggs, salmon, and avocados. In addition to assisting protein and fat metabolism for energy use, biotin plays a role in supporting the health of hair, skin, and nails.* The Recommended Daily Allowance for biotin is 30 mcg per day. According to the Mayo Clinic, normal intake for adults is 30-70 mcg per day, which can be found in foods like oatmeal, legumes, and soy. For those looking to support the health of their nails and hair, a biotin supplement may be helpful.*

Antioxidants

What are antioxidants? Antioxidants are nutrients that help to counter the destructive nature of free radicals – natural by – products of the body’s metabolism.* While some antioxidants are naturally occurring in the body, free radicals can damage cell membranes, so it is important to get them through food. Many fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants, including blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, kidney beans, Granny Smith apples, and prunes. In skincare, Vitamin C is one of the most popular antioxidants, as it aids in combating damage found by free radicals.* Vitamin C creams and serums are often used in conjunction with antioxidant Vitamin E. Vitamin C is also involved in the production of collagen, which forms the basis for vibrant skin.*

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the deeper layers of our skin known as the dermis. Not only does hyaluronic acid come in supplement form, but it is also available as facial cream.

Zinc

Did you know that 8% of the body’s stored zinc is found in the skin and hair? In addition to being important for immune system health and energy metabolism, zinc contributes to a healthy skin barrier.* As a component of the enzyme collagenase, zinc contributes to skin health.* Zinc can also be obtained through food sources, including lean beef, beans, and lobster.

Niacin

Like biotin, niacin is a water-soluble B-vitamin, and an important nutrient that helps support cell growth.* Commonly known for supporting heart and cardiovascular wellness, niacin also helps to maintain healthy skin and healthy functioning of the skin.*

How do you keep your skin glowing? Let us know in the comments!