When faced with pollution, ultra-violet rays and extreme weather condition, how can skin be properly cared for? It’s important to take the needed precautions to protect one’s skin during winter months in order to withstand these harsh elements. But what is needed to nourish one’s skin and keep it glowing and fresh? Vitamins are key to helping the skin.

Four great vitamins for your skin are A, B, C and E. They act as powerful antioxidants that help slow or reduce the aging and regeneration process of not only skin, but the body as a whole.  During winter months, Joseph Sweere, DC, a professor at Northwestern Health Sciences University, recommends vitamin supplements and eating lots of leafy greens to enhance skin’s health and vitality.

1. Vitamin C. This vitamin, according to Dr. Sweere, is particularly helpful because it repairs connective tissue, ligaments, skin and bones. Vitamin C also helps neutralize the damage from ultraviolet exposure and pollution along with enhancing collagen production.
2. Vitamin E. This powerful antioxidant reduces wrinkles and improves skin’s texture. Dr. Sweere says vitamin E is very important because it makes all other vitamins work more effectively.
3. Vitamin B. This vitamin is important for hydrating and evening out skin tone.
4. Vitamin A. This vitamin helps reduce the appearances of fine lines and pores while keeping tissues intact.Dr. Sweere, however, advises patients to use vitamin supplements as directed in order to avoid overdosing, particularly oil-soluble vitamins such as A, E, and K.  

Source: Joseph, J. Sweere, D.C., Golden Rules for Vibrant Health in Body, Mind and Spirit (2004), Basic Health Publications, Inc.