There is a long list of key nutrients that have been shown to support healthy looking skin including:

• B vitamins
• Antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E
• Minerals calcium, magnesium, zinc, and boron
• Amino acids L-cysteine and L-methionine
• Plant polyphenols resveratrol, curcumin, and EGCG

While these nutrients are important, collagen is getting much of the attention in the scientific literature when it comes to skin health. This makes sense because collagen is the protein that forms the scaffold that gives skin its strength and structure. Collagen also plays a role in replacing and restoring dead skin cells and it helps form fibroblasts, which grow new skin cells. Several factors can reduce collagen production and function including sun exposure, tobacco smoking, and aging. Replenishing collagen from the inside out makes sense for those patients who are looking for additional skin health support.

Many oral collagen supplements also contain some of the synergistic ingredients mentioned above. In addition, hyaluronic acid can provide additional skin health support. According to a 2017 double-blind, placebo-controlled study, hyaluronic acid has critical moisturizing properties that can help improve the condition of the skin. Other studies involving hyaluronic acid have confirmed these results.

The skin is the largest organ of the human body that serves many important purposes. It protects us against harmful substances, helps regulate body temperature and excretes toxins. Skin health can also impact confidence, self-esteem, and other emotional issues. In addition to recommending high-quality, all-natural topical skin products, many patients will benefit from an oral supplement that supports skin from the inside out.

Selected References:

Borumand M, Sibilla S. Daily consumption of the collagen supplement Pure Gold Collagen reduces visible signs of aging. Clin Interv Aging. 2014;9:1747-1758.

Genovese L, Corbo A, Sibilla S. An insight into the changes in skin texture and properties following dietary intervention with a nutricosmeceutical containing a blend of collagen bioactive peptides and antioxidants. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2017;30(3):146-158.

Inoue N, Sugihara F, Wang X. Ingestion of bioactive collagen hydrolysates enhance facial skin moisture and elasticity and reduce facial aging signs in a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical study. J Sci Food Agric. 2016;96(12:4077-81.

Oe M, Sakai S, Yoshida H, et al. Oral hyaluronan relieves wrinkles: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study over a 12-week period. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2017;10:267-