The Power Of Vitamins In Skincare

Vitamins are not only crucial for maintaining health and restoring wellness throughout the body, they are also one of the most important tools for achieving a vibrant and youthful complexion. Below is a breakdown of some of the best vitamins you can incorporate into your skincare routine to boost your skins overall health and appearance.

VITAMIN A- ACNE, AGEING, PIGMENTATION 

Retinol is a derivative of Vitamin A that effectively treats multiple skin concerns including acne, hyperpigmentation and sun damage, also helping to decrease signs of ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles. Benefits of Retinol include increasing cellular turnover in the skin, thickening and increasing the density of the dermis (structural layer of the skin), regulating oil production, and increasing collagen production. Retinol also treats hyperpigmentation by removing existing pigmentation and regulating melanin production. 

Retinol is a complex ingredient that can be irritating to the skin. Retinol is available in four different forms, relating to it chemical composition and it's vital you use the formula suited to your skin to avoid irritation. Retinol should be introduced slowly, for night time use only and always accompanied by adequate SPF during the day. Products containing Retinol are generally not suitable for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. 

Four forms of Retinol in order of potency: 

Retinyl Palmitate - weakest, least drying and the only form safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding. 

Retinol - most common form found in cosmetic products. 

Retinaldehyde/Retinal - strongest form found in cosmetic products. 

Retinoic Acid - purest form, also the most irritating, prescription only. 

VITAMIN B- OILINESS, ACNE, PIGMENTATION 

The most famous Vitamin B is B3, otherwise known as Niacinamide. Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 that helps to brighten the skin and improve pigmentation. Niacinamide also regulates oil production in the skin and assists in preventing breakouts in acne prone skin types. 

Niacinamide is safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, however please refer to the individual product descriptions and always check with your physician. 

VITAMIN C- REDNESS, PIGMENTATION, AGEING 

Vitamin C has multiple benefits in skin care, including powerful antioxidant properties that protect from environmental damage, particularly photo-damage. Vitamin C has anti-inflammatory capabilities that reduce redness and calm the skin. Vitamin C also increases and supports collagen production. Furthermore, it also helps to brighten and reduce hyperpigmentation. 

Vitamin C comes in many different forms, relating to its chemical composition. Commonly seen in ingredients list are: Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate - oil soluble, pH neutral, a more stable form of Vitamin C e.g. in Aspect Dr Active C Serum $135 Ascorbic Acid - the most active form e.g. in Cosmedix Pure C Mixing Crystals $85.

Vitamin C is safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, however please refer to the individual product descriptions and always check with your physician. 

VITAMIN D- SENSITIVE, DRY 

Vitamin D - yes it is the vitamin you get from sun exposure but did you know it is also excellent in calming inflamation as it is an Antioxidant. During winter when you have less exposure to the sun, it helps neutralise free radicals and protect the skin from environmental damage. 

Are you still unsure as to what Vitamins in skincare you should be using? Book a FREE Video Consultation with one of our Registered Nurses. Book here