Research presented at the congress of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venerology shows that more than half of Europeans struggle with skin problems. These problems may have various causes. The ones we can influence are, of course, nutrition and supplementation - so what can we do to take care of our skin and provide it with the right ingredients?
First of all, we should start with research - we should find out whether we have any deficiencies or allergies. Hormones should also be examined because disturbances in the endocrine system involving an increase or decrease in the concentration of certain hormones contribute to increased work of the sebaceous glands and overproduction of sebum.
The next step should be to take a close look at your diet:
Dairy
According to scientific observations, a large supply of milk and dairy products leads to an increase in the level of insulin and the growth factor IGF-1, which translates into the severity of seborrhea. 1
Sweets
The release of insulin in the body after eating sweets may translate into unfavorable hormonal fluctuations, which in turn leads to excessive work of the sebaceous glands. 1
Processed food, fast food
Why is this happening? These types of products usually contain a lot of salt, which causes our sebaceous glands to work more intensively. They also contain large amounts of sugar, preservatives and fat. Moreover, most of this type of food does not provide our body with many nutritional values and vitamins.
Supplementation – what to choose and why?
Grape seed extract
It contains compounds of natural origin called OPC. OPC, or proanthocyanidins, contain numerous -OH groups, which are responsible for their high antioxidant activity. 2 Procyanidins also have a protective effect on vitamin C and E. 3
A frequently observed effect of OPC supplementation is improvement in the appearance and health of the skin. OPC also has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties, as well as the ability to prevent the harmful effects of UV radiation.
Camu Camu
It is a shrub that comes from the Amazon forest. Its fruits have virucidal, anti-inflammatory properties and stimulate collagen production. 5
Vitamin C
Research shows that vitamin C has a beneficial effect on eliminating skin discolorations and improves its firmness, elasticity and hydration. 6
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is responsible for normalizing sebum secretion and skin hydration. It also has a proven protective role against UV rays. 4 It takes part in the process of rebuilding the skin and epithelium, synthesis of adrenal cortex hormones and exfoliation of the epidermis. 7
Vitamin D
Research results indicate that vitamin D deficiency may be important in the pathogenesis of acne lesions. 8 It is believed that, among other things, it is responsible for the formation of acne gram-positive bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes), which constitutes the physiological flora of the skin. However, its growth may be inhibited by vitamin D. 9
Zinc
Research indicates that zinc deficiency was confirmed in patients with acne, and supplementation with this element improved the skin condition. 10
Niacin (also known as nicotinamide or vitamin B3 )
In vitro studies have shown that niacin may inhibit sebum secretion. Nicotinamide also has exfoliating and anti-inflammatory effects. 11
Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid is a natural component of the skin, responsible for its proper hydration. Supplementation with hyaluronic acid may have a positive effect on the quality of the skin and joints.