Vitamins in dermatology

Mens sana in corpore sano! – A healthy mind in healthy body!

Vitamins, as they are commonly known, are a source of energy, health, life and well-being; they are irreplaceable nutrients for every organism and every human being. First, we absorb vitamins from food or other dietary supplements and then they nourish our bodies from inside. It means that they are an integral part of the natural body’s functioning. The loss of vitamins may cause many unpleasant effects and ailments. It is known that our skin also needs nourishment that comes from vitamins. This is why nowadays we can find on the market a lot of cosmetics with the addition of vitamins. What is the role of vitamins in dermatology? Below we present some important information about the functions of vitamins in the skin. 

Vitamin E

Vitamin E prevents moisture loss, significantly improves hydration and restores the natural skin’s protective barrier. Moreover, it intensively regenerates dry, irritated, and sensitive skin, but also considerably reduces skin redness, thereby reducing the feeling of tight and rough skin. It is also able to neutralize free radicals (atoms or molecules that cause DNA degradation). It supports collagen production, smoothes and moisturizes the skin, improves its elasticity as well as prevents age-related body changes (for example, skin discolouration). 

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is essential in the process of epidermal stem cell regeneration. It improves the structure and function of the stratum corneum, strengthens the skin’s protective barrier, prevents drying (water loss) and stops the ageing process of the skin as well as is a remedy for dark spots and stains. Vitamin A benefits water-fat balance, which reduces skin roughness and desquamation. It also regulates the process of epidermal keratinisation (exfoliation). 

Vitamin C

The liposomal vitamin C is transported directly deep into the epidermis, which means that it is absorbed way better. It protects the skin from the damage caused by free radicals and supports the process of collagen synthesis, which is responsible for skin elasticity. It improves the condition of fragile and rupture-prone blood vessels, enhances the skin colour, smoothes and gives it a natural glow. It plays a very important role in the metabolic process of the skin.   

Vitamin F is often referred to as ‘essential unsaturated fatty acids. It helps to regenerate the lipid layer of the epidermis, acts curatively and preventively, and restores the acid, water, and lipid balance of the skin.

Therefore, it is worth taking a look at the content of vitamins in dermocosmetics and cosmetics and trying to match them to the individual needs of the skin in order to nourish it properly, as the skin is going to serve us for a lot of years! 

Author:
Dermatologist Joanna Nowak, M.D.