It may come as no surprise that your skin, just like your body’s other organs, craves vitamins, minerals and other nutrients to support its health and well-being. But do you know the best nutrients to nourish your skin? Restore moisture? Diminish wrinkle appearance? Let’s take a quick look at seven nutrients and what they can do for your skin.

1.    Vitamin C: This popular vitamin is a major player in the production of collagen, the skin’s supportive protein. Increasing collagen synthesis through topical application of vitamin C can help smooth out wrinkles and fine lines, giving skin a younger appearance. Vitamin C is also a powerful antioxidant, and may help protect the skin from free radical damage.

2.    Vitamin K: Although it is found in foods such as soybeans and leafy green veggies, this vitamin may do its best work for your skin when applied topically. Many under-eye creams and gels contain vitamin K because of its potential ability to diminish the appearance of dark circles, discolorations and wrinkles.

3.    B Vitamins: If you haven’t heard of biotin, it’s an important B vitamin that plays a major role in the growth and health of skin, nail and hair. Another B vitamin, niacin, can help skin retain moisture. B vitamins can be found in foods such as oatmeal and eggs, or in supplements or topical creams. Creams containing B vitamins may promote healthy skin tone and hydration, leading to more youthful looking skin. 

4.    Zinc:  In the form of zinc oxide, this essential mineral may be helpful for soothing minor burns, scrapes and other irritations. As an antioxidant, zinc may also play a role in protecting skin from UV radiation and other free radicals.

5.    Hyaluronic Acid: This substance occurs naturally in the body and is probably most well known for helping to support healthy joint function. But it can also contribute to healthy, younger looking skin by retaining moisture and binding skin cells closely together. Hyaluronic acid is found in creams and supplements.

6.    DMAE: There’s a good reason this nutrient is commonly found in topical skin creams. DMAE, also known as dimethylethanolamine, is a powerful antioxidant that helps to neutralize free radicals, curbing potential damage to healthy skin cells and protecting them from future attacks. DMAE may also help reduce the appearance of age spots.  

7.    Essential Fatty Acids: A lack of essential fatty acids may cause skin to become red or dry. An optimal balance of omega-3 and omega-6 intake can help lead to healthier looking skin. Omega-3s can be found in salmon, sardines, flaxseed and many supplements. Look for omega-6 in cooking oils, grains and poultry.