Your skin works day and night to protect your inner body and support its processes. But are you doing enough to support your skin in return? If you aren’t supplying it with enough of the following nutrients, you may need to alter your diet or skin care routine. Use the following guide to learn what this organ appreciates most.

Which Nutrients Does My Skin Need?

1. Vitamin A

This vitamin is an antioxidant that interacts with oil glands to prevent the skin from drying out. In some cases, it may help heal your skin after a sunburn. Since vitamin A supports immune-system cells, it may even prevent skin cancer. While you can increase your intake by eating green, leafy vegetables or orange and yellow fruits, you can also take cod liver oil supplements. Some skin care creams and ointments containing retinol, a form of Vitamin A, can deliver benefits directly to your complexion.

2. Essential Fatty Acids

While some fats, such as trans and saturated fats, should be avoided, the body thrives on stores of essential fatty acids (EFAs), like omega-3 and -6. These nutrients fortify cell walls and decrease inflammation, leaving your skin supple and radiant. You can increase your EFAs by taking flaxseed or sunflower seed oil supplements or by eating foods with healthy fats, like avocados and salmon.

3. Zinc

This mineral is concentrated in the outermost layer of the skin, the epidermis, acting as armor for your body’s largest organ. When you get a cut or scratch, zinc stabilizes the cell walls, contributing to your skin’s natural healing process. Like vitamin A, it’s also an antioxidant and may offer protection from the sun. Some sunscreens and lotions contain zinc, but you can also get it from certain seafood, like lobster and oysters, as well as mushrooms, beans, and milk.

At Kailua Dermatology Associates, Dr. Phillip Hellreich, MD, knows how important it is for his clients to protect their skin from Hawaii’s sunshine, as well as the natural effects of aging. He provides careful assessments and valuable skin care insight to diagnose and treat any issue you may be experiencing. To schedule an appointment, send a message online or call (808) 261-6133.