There are many not-so-secrets to longer life. They understandably focus on keeping our insides happy and healthy, with regular exercise and maintaining a healthy diet. However, when we reach the ripe old ages, we want people to be amazed, yes by our age, but also by not looking our age. There are many moisturisers and beauty products claiming to hold the elixir of life in their pot or bottle, but it can be difficult to decipher whether there is any real value to it – other than the often hefty price tag.
At my aesthetic clinic in Hale, Altrincham, many of my wonderful clients are looking to stop the clocks on their ageing skin. Whilst much of the beauty market is driven by money as oppose to scientific fact, industry leading dermatologists and nutritionists agree that by making conscious efforts to boost particular nutrients and vitamins in our diet, we can significantly slow down the visible signs of ageing. Here I share 5 essential vitamins for optimum skin health and where to find them.
Vitamin A
It is the vitamin found in some of the most effective anti-ageing products as Retinol. Vitamin A is the ultimate fighter against ageing since it is responsible for skin repair, is an anti-oxidant to the damaging effects of free radicals, promotes collagen production and thus the growth of new cells which combat fine lines and wrinkles, and the dark circles under our eyes.
Food source: oily fish, eggs, carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes
Vitamin B
There are 8 B vitamins in total, and each has its role to play in providing a healthy body and skin. Together, these vitamins help to retain moisture in the skin by supporting the function of the upper dermis, stimulate new skin cell production for a bright complexion, and promote even skin tone and improved elasticity. As a water-soluble vitamin, it cannot be stored by the body, so it’s important that our diet is rich with sources of vitamin B.
Food source: avocados, mushrooms, tomatoes, seeds and nuts, eggs, cheese, spinach
Vitamin C
We all know that vitamin C is supposed to warn off colds and flu but it also works wonder for our skin. By promoting collagen production, vitamin C gives skin a firmer, brighter and consequently more youthful appearance. This attribute also helps to heal sun-damaged skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Food source: citrus fruits, strawberries, broccoli, spinach, peppers, kale
Vitamin D
Dubbed as the “sunshine vitamin”, trying to get our daily dose of sunlight can be almost impossible for many of us, – especially in the winter months. Vitamin D is responsible for strengthening the skin, preventing skin problems such as acne and eczema.
Food source: fish, egg yolks, mushrooms, fortified products such as; milk, yogurt, cereal
Vitamin E
Another anti-oxidant vitamin, vitamin E protects the skin from free radical damage largely directed from harmful UV rays. Normally the body will produce vitamin E through sebum which is secreted onto the skin surface. That way, vitamin E is also essential to maintaining skin moisture and preventing skin problems associated with skin dryness, such as inflammation and eczema.
Food source: almonds, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds, vegetable oils, spinach
Following a vitamin-rich diet is a delicious way to slow the signs of ageing on our skin. However, for some, the already visible tells of ageing such as dark circles, lines and wrinkles, and skin that has lost its plumpness, can take its toll on our confidence. At KP Aesthetics, I am driven to restore the skin to a natural-looking youthfulness, and restore my clients’ self-esteem. To find out how I can help you slow the effects of time on your skin, take a look at my website, or get in touch for a free consultation where we can put together a treatment plan that is perfect for you.
