7 Key Nutrients for Hair, Skin, and Nails

by Melissa Chichester

Have you ever spent time trying to figure out the secret to clear and radiant skin, lustrous hair, and strong nails?

Here’s a hint: it’s not in a magic potion sold in a glossy advertisement. Your most radiant self starts on the inside with nutrients from a healthy diet and adequate hydration. This includes vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that are known to support the health of hair, skin, and nails. Here are eight nutrients that support your natural beauty. 

Biotin 

Biotin is one of the most popular supplements that supports skin health, nail health, and hair health.* It is also involved in energy metabolism.* Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin and needs to be replenished daily since it is not stored by the body. It’s also one of the key nutrients in Puritan’s Pride Hair, Skin, and Nails Gummies.

>>Vitamin H: Biotin for Beauty and Other Benefits

Collagen

It is one of the most important nutrients for skin and joint health because it declines quickly with age. On average, most people stop producing collagen in their forties. Bone broth, gelatin, and egg yolks are all sources of collagen. Many people have trouble eating foods that contain enough collagen, which is where collagen supplements can help.  

Although men generally have more collagen in their skin than women, men still need collagen. 

Puritan’s Pride Men’s Hair Gummies with Biotin and Collagen is a delicious gummy vitamin supplement for healthier-looking hair.* This formula also contains the antioxidants Vitamin E and Vitamin C. Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that helps fight free radicals in the body.* Free radicals can cause oxidative stress, which may damage cells. 

>>6 Easy Ways to Add Collagen to Your Diet

Hyaluronic acid 

Hyaluronic acid is a popular nutrient in skincare because it is known for its hydrating qualities. It is naturally found in the deeper layers of the skin known as the dermis. Unfortunately, hyaluronic acid levels in the body decrease with age. Hyaluronic acid cream can help smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and help plump skin with healthy hydration. 

>>Shop all hyaluronic acid products

L-lysine 

Lysine is one of the amino acids found in collagen that is involved in collagen production. Lysine helps support healthy skin and lips.* It cannot be made by the body, so it is important to receive lysine through food or supplements. Cheese (especially parmesan cheese), cod, pork, eggs, red meats, and poultry are all sources of lysine. 

>>L-Lysine: An Amino Acid for Collagen Production

Vitamin A 

Vitamin A is an antioxidant that supports eye health.* However, it is also essential for healthy, radiant skin.* Vitamin A is the general name for substances that include retinol, which is a key nutrient in many skincare creams, serums, and soaps. Food sources of Vitamin A include leafy green vegetables, carrots, eggs, orange fruits, and organ meats. 

Vitamin C 

Although most people know Vitamin C as an immune support supplement, it is also important for skincare.*  Vitamin C is involved in collagen formation, which contributes to healthy skin.* 

Zinc

Zinc is an essential nutrient that supports the health and integrity of the skin.*  It is a key component of the enzyme collagenase, which contributes to a healthy skin barrier, forming a first line of defense.*

>>Shop L-Lysine and Zinc tablets

Supplements are not meant to replace whole-food sources of nutrients or other healthy habits. However, they can provide extra help if you are looking to add specific nutrients to your diet. Eating a balanced diet, limiting stress, and staying hydrated are also important factors that contribute to looking your best.