Best vitamins and supplements for your Dry Skin
When it comes to skin goals, we often overlook the crucial element of hydration. But as summer arrives in its full swing, suddenly skin hydration makes it at the top of all our skincare wants.
While we focus on reducing fine lines, minimizing pores, and addressing acne, maintaining skin hydration can sometimes be neglected. Ensuring your skin stays hydrated is one of the most beneficial actions you can take.
Dehydrated skin isn't a skin type; it's a condition that can affect anyone, regardless of whether their skin is oily, normal, or dry. In fact, dehydration can even lead to excess oil production.
Don't be fooled! There is a big difference between dehydrated skin and dry skin. Dryness is related to the outermost layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum, while dehydration occurs when there is excessive water loss due to various internal and external factors. It's important to note that even if you drink plenty of water, your skin can still be dry.
Read on to know more about the science behind skin hydration and the vitamins your skin craves to restore hydration.
The Science of Skin Hydration
Humectants Vs Occlusive Ingredients
Our body naturally relies on humectants to store hydration by trapping water in the skin. Humectants are molecules that have the remarkable ability to attract and retain water, helping to maintain optimal moisture levels.
However, their behavior can vary depending on the climate.In a humid climate, humectants draw in water from the environment, creating a moisturizing effect on the skin.
Some common humectants include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera. These ingredients act as moisture magnets, replenishing and hydrating the skin by capturing water molecules from the surrounding atmosphere.
On the other hand, in dry climates or environments with low humidity, humectants can have a different impact. In these conditions, humectants may pull water from the deeper layers of the skin, leading to further dehydration. This is where occlusive ingredients come into play.
Occlusive ingredients, such as oils, waxes, and butters, act as a protective barrier on the skin's surface. They create a seal that helps to prevent water loss through evaporation, locking in the moisture provided by humectants.
By forming a barrier, occlusives help to maintain hydration by reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Examples of occlusive ingredients include shea butter, jojoba oil, and beeswax.
By understanding the distinction between humectants and occlusives, we can better address the hydration needs of our skin. While humectants attract and retain water, occlusives provide a physical barrier to prevent its escape.
Both these components are vital in a comprehensive skincare routine to achieve and maintain healthy, hydrated skin.
Test Your Skin’s Hydration
Dehydrated skin exhibits various symptoms that affect both its appearance and sensation. These include itchiness, dullness, the presence of darker under-eye circles, shadows around the nose and under the eyes, as well as the appearance of fine lines and surface wrinkles.
To determine if your skin is dehydrated, you can perform a simple patch test. Gently pinch your cheek, and if it wrinkles under slight pressure instead of retaining its shape, it's a clear indication that your skin cells are in dire need of hydration.
Vitamins to Rehydrate Dry Skin
Vitamin E
Vitamin E serves as a versatile solution for dry skin, both as a supplement and a topical remedy. When consumed orally, the potent antioxidant properties of vitamin E aid in safeguarding the skin against additional damage.
Additionally, it possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate the discomfort of dry, itchy, and red skin caused by dehydration. When applied topically as a facial oil, vitamin E acts as a barrier, preventing moisture loss from the skin and effectively maintaining its hydration levels.
Consider incorporating vitamin E into your skincare routine for nourished and moisturized skin.
Fish Oil
It is crucial to highlight the connection between Omega-3 deficiency and dry, itchy skin, stating that it can serve as a signal from your body. Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial in preventing inflammation, making it essential to ensure an adequate intake by your body. Incorporating sources like flax seeds and fish into your diet can provide a rich supply of Omega-3s.
However, if these options aren't to your liking, you can consider taking fish oil supplements as an alternative. By addressing Omega-3 deficiency, you can support your skin's health and combat dryness and itching, promoting a more nourished and comfortable complexion.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D supports skin hydration through multiple mechanisms. It helps maintain the skin barrier function, reducing water loss and preserving hydration. By promoting ceramide production, it enhances moisture retention in the skin.
Vitamin D's anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritated skin, addressing dryness caused by inflammation. It also aids in skin cell turnover, improving the skin's ability to retain moisture. While sunlight is a primary source of vitamin D, it can also be obtained through food or supplements.
However, achieving hydrated skin involves a holistic approach, combining proper skincare, internal hydration, and a healthy lifestyle. Consulting a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance on vitamin D supplementation for skin hydration.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a crucial component for collagen production, making it beneficial for maintaining collagen levels and preventing further breakdown. It is widely recognized in the skincare world and commonly found in serums and creams due to its potent properties.
Not only does vitamin C provide external benefits, but it also acts as an antioxidant internally, combatting free radicals generated by UV exposure and pollution.
While convenient gummies and tablets are available, high-quality vitamin C powders can be mixed into beverages for easy ingestion. The citrusy taste of vitamin C makes it a seamless addition to your daily routine, promoting skin health from the inside out.
Zinc
Zinc is a common ingredient found in lotions and creams designed to alleviate rashes and dry, itchy skin. This is due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which help prevent skin dryness and redness. Additionally, zinc supports enzymes that aid the immune system, potentially preventing conditions like eczema that can contribute to dry skin. By incorporating zinc-based products into your skincare routine, you can benefit from its soothing effects and promote healthier, hydrated skin.
Empress Natural’s Hydration Picks
OVERNIGHT REPAIR
Experience the rejuvenating power of our Luxe Night Elixir, infused with seven potent antioxidants. This luxurious elixir is specifically formulated to combat signs of aging and replenish overtaxed skin.
Its rich blend of antioxidants and anti-inflammatories fights against environmental stressors, providing your skin with the nourishment it deserves. With its reparative fatty acids, it helps repair sun damage, while its gentle formula soothes irritated skin.
Wake up to revitalized and youthful-looking skin with our Luxe Night Elixir.
BODY HYDRATION
Indulge in the ultimate hydration with our Luxury Massage Oils, perfect for replenishing dry hair and skin after days spent by the pool or at the beach.
Our high-quality essential oils not only rehydrate and nourish your skin, but also work wonders for blood circulation, leaving you with a radiant and glowing complexion.
Pamper yourself with the luxurious benefits of our massage oils, as they deeply moisturize and revitalize your body, providing the hydration it craves.
SUMMER HYDRATION WITH EMPRESS NATURALS
At Empress Naturals’, skin hydration and nourishment is our highest priority! Empress Naturals’ skincare is formulated specifically keeping in mind the needs of mature skin.
Our aim is to provide you with 100% Pure and Organic Skincare that makes you feel incredible in the skin that you have. We nurture mature skin with ingredients that come directly from nature.
We provide ageless radiance and luminous skin without exposing your skin to the thousands of toxic ingredients that are still legal in the country.
Infact, our products, highlighted by prestigious Rosehip Seed Oil, are safe to use even when pregnant or breastfeeding; though we recommend you check with a medical professional.
Our products are non-toxic, clean, Leaping Bunny Certified Cruelty-Free with USDA Certified Organic ingredients. All of our ingredients are cultivated responsibly and sourced from sustainable farms throughout the world with ZERO hazardous preservatives.
Explore clean skincare by Empress Naturals. Invest in your health!
