Essential Skin Nutrients Part 2
This is the second part of the Essential Skin Nutrients series. The first part outlined the importance of Vitamin A, Vitamin C and amino acids for the overall health of the skin. This article will focus on three more essential skin nutrients. Namely, B complex vitamins, vitamin E and essential fatty acids.
B Complex Vitamins
Skin Perfecting Qualities
B vitamins are vital for the health of the skin as they help to rebuild and repair the tissue. They also contribute to the overall running off the cells by providing them with much needed energy.They also help to keep the nerves healthy and they provide the skin with oxygen. The family B vitamins include, thiamin (B1) niacin (B3), panothenic acid (B5),pyriodoxine (B6), cyanocobalamin (B12),choline and folic acid.
On the Surface
Panthenol is related to vitamin B5, and it is often found in skin creams because of it's softening properties.
Lack of vitamin B can cause dry skin, chapped lips and brittle nails. If you drink alcohol, smoke or you take a contraceptive pill, you will need up your intake of B vitamins.
Best Natural Sources
The best natural sources for B vitamins are: wholegrain cereals, brown rice, peas, beans, lentils, leafy greens, meat, eggs, avocado, bananas, nuts and seeds.
Vitamin E
Skin Perfecting Qualities
Vitamin E is a very powerful antioxidant which protects the cell membranes from damage. Vitamin E can also extend cell life and promote the healing of the skin. This is why it is often used in scar treatment lotions and creams. It can also help to rebalance the skin and relieve the symptoms of eczema, acne and psoriasis.
On the Surface
To give the skin that super glow, try apply Vitamin E rich oils to the skin morning and night. It can also slow down the ageing process.
When the skin is very oily or too dry top up your application of Vitamin E oil. Also if you are often exposed to the sun, it is very important that you apply some form of vitamin E oil or lotion to help protect the skin from sun damage.
Best Natural Sources
The best natural sources of of vitamin E are: cold pressed vegetable oils such almond oil, wheatgerm, brown rice, egg yolks and asparagus.
Essential Fatty Acids
Skin Perfecting Qualities
Essential fatty acids are used to build the cell membranes. Therefore, they are vital for the overall health of the skin. Linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid are nutrients that we must obtain from our diet. When they are digested in the body, they are converted into health boosters.
On the Surface
Omega 6 fatty acids help to strengthen, soften and moisturise the skin. This is why they are often found in moisturising creams. Especially those used for anti-ageing and dry skin.
Best Natural Sources
The best sources for essential fatty acids are: sunflower and pumpkin seeds, flaxseed (linseed), hemp oil, nuts (especially walnuts), soya beans, leafy vegetables and oily fish.
