The arrival of spring means longer, sunny days making us want to enjoy the outdoors. However, this also means that our skin, which has been protected under layers of clothing and mostly indoors, is now parched from the mix of natural cold and artificial heating and needs some help to regain moisture, reenforce the epidermal layers, and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin among other things. In other words, we need to get our skin ready to enjoy the sun's rays. Based on that, we will guide you towards the main ingredients you need to add to your diet, as well as topical products and supplements, to get your skin ready for these spring and summer days we missed so much.

Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a substance that makes it seem as if time is ticking in your favor. Its powerful antioxidant properties are considered an enormous assistance to stopping free radical damage to the skin after cell oxidation. One of its merits is how it can pass through the skin barrier and protect skin from aging while increasing collagen production, strengthening skin so that the sun and external elements do not damage it. (1)

You can look for creams and lotions that contain resveratrol, but a good recommendation is to consume foods like whole grapes, blackberries, and blueberries that contain it. You can also supplement it. (2)

Biotin

Also called vitamin B7, biotin is a star supplement according to many skin experts because it is responsible for providing strength, shine, and vitality to our skin and the integumentary system (which includes hair and nails). Biotin is also responsible for the repairing of tissue, especially when there are conditions of deterioration or damage due to reduced keratin, a fundamental protein for skin, nails, and hair. (3)

A study conducted on people between the ages of 20 and 25 who have atonic dermatitis showed improved skin condition after biotin ointment use. (4)

Part of the regular production of biotin is done through intestinal flora and it naturally available in foods including animal viscera (such as liver or kidneys), dairy products, mushrooms, vegetables such as sweet potatoes, eggs, fish, legumes, whole grains, and dark chocolate, among others. However, not all people are able to consume enough biotin. Supplementing it is a good option because a daily dose can help strengthen skin, nails, and hair, improving their texture while combating diseases. (5)

Collagen

We hear the term everywhere, synonymous with lush and younger-looking skin. Those who make the claim are not wrong, as there is an abundance of research on this protein needed for the proper maintenance of connective tissues like the skin, bones, and joints. Collagen fibers in our body deteriorate over time, so it is necessary and important to support its regeneration. (6)

There are certain natural sources of collagen in meat, poultry, oily fish, concentrated bone broths, eggs, lemons, onions, nuts, animal gelatin, tomatoes, and dairy products. However, due to a variety of diets and food allergies, oftentimes enough collagen is just not consumed.

A review of clinical studies determining the efficacy of collagen, published by the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology in 2019, determined that using collagen supplements is more effective than topical use, showing how collagen improves elasticity, skin hydration, and the density of collagen in the dermis (inner layer of the skin). Collagen also showed good results with wound healing and decreasing skin aging in both the short and long term (7). Combining collagen with vitamin C, zinc, biotin, and vitamin E has also been shown to improve elasticity, hydration, and skin texture to help avoid natural deterioration. (8)

Vitamin C

Our skin itself contains a healthy amount of vitamin C, especially in the dermis which is responsible for nourishing the top layer or epidermis (the part of skin that shows). The skin needs this antioxidant and nutrient for various tasks, including stimulating collagen production and protecting the skin from environmental and sun/ultraviolet damage. (9)

We know how to obtain vitamin C from natural sources like citrus fruits, strawberries, and kiwis, or from vegetables like broccoli and red peppers. However, certain activities can prevent full absorption of this antioxidant, such as refrigerating the foods, smoking, or certain health disorders. Adding it to your personal care routine is a wise decision.

Topical vitamin C application is a good step for the outer layer of the skin, but to help complete the process of nutrition and collagen production and maintain full and proper skin health, more intake is required. Diseases related to vitamin C deficiency present fragility in the skin and other tissues like the gums, causing bleeding, poor wound healing, and fragile hair (9). Supplementing vitamin C with even a minimum dose can help create luminous, radiant, healthy skin.

Zinc

It is such a simple mineral but packs immense power, with the ability to boost the defenses and enhance our protective layer aka skin. In fact, its role is transcendental in the growth and maintenance of various tissues. Acquired zinc deficiency, or alterations in zinc metabolism in newborns, can cause skin health disorders at the genetic level. (10)

Zinc also plays a fundamental role in treating acne, atopic dermatitis, and hidradenitis suppurativa, due to its anti-inflammatory effects on the skin (11). In general, zinc helps maintain skin health by supporting the metabolism of enzymes and proteins that participate in skin renewal, wound healing, and reducing inflammation. Skin alteration make a greater demand on the body for zinc. For this reason, although we can obtain it from natural sources such as red meats, oysters, beans, and nuts, supplementing it will help satisfy additional requirements we need. (12)

Prepare your skin by keeping it hydrated and well nourished. When you go out in the sun, apply a UV protection product, and cover up with a hat, especially around noon/high sun. Expose yourself to the outdoors gradually. Don't make up for the winter months in just a couple of days out in the sun unprotected and overdoing it. Give yourself brighter, more cheerful days by taking care of the skin you bare to the world.

Let's be healthier, together.

Your Santo Remedio Team