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Friday, October 3, 2008

Beautiful Supplements

After working at a salon and spa for a few years I became addicted to facial products- wrinkle reducers, collagen enhancers, dark eye circle removers, stretch mark faders, lip plumpers- you name it and I had it, tested it or wanted it. After months of using these pricey products I could still see wrinkles, cellulite, dark circles under my eyes, stretch marks and my lips were not Angelina-Jolie-like no matter how I puckered. I was also working a lot, staying out late, tanning, and definitely not eating my vegetables. My friend suggested a simple solution: water and a multivitamin.

Everyday environmental factors such as pollution and sun exposure can lead to the formation of free radicals, which contribute to the signs of aging. Taking dietary supplements can actually prevent and repair this damage:

Vitamin C- Essential for the production of collagen and reduces damage caused by free radicals. It is also essential for the development and maintenance of scar tissue, blood vessels and cartilage.

Beta-carotene- When combined with vitamin E and other carotenoids, like lutein, it prevents and reduces redness and inflammation associated with sunburn and skin sensitivity to sunlight, according to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Vitamin B- In general Vitamin B helps maintain healthy skin and muscle tone. Specifically, it regulates the functioning of the oil-producing glands which keep skin moist and smooth. Poor intake of vitamin B can cause dry scaly skin. Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, forms the basis of skin, hair and nail cells. Lack of B2, or Riboflavin, may cause cracked lips and high sensitivity to light.

Vitamin A- Maintains and repairs skin tissue, fighting free radicals due to its antioxidant properties. Retinol, the oxidized form of Vitamin A, is used for treatment of acne.

Vitamin E- Another antioxidant that may have anti-inflammatory effects on the skin.

Zinc- links together amino acids that are needed for the formation of collagen- essential for wound healing, taming oil production in the skin and controlling the formation of acne.

Selenium- A number of scientists believe this mineral plays a key role in skin cancer prevention. This mineral helps protect skin from sun damage and help reduce your chance of burning.

Although I still do use a few topical products, I have found that a good night sleep, some exercise, my daily allowance of water, and a multivitamin can work wonders.
-Community Assistant

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