Beauty From Within: Beauty Supplements to Boost Your Skin and Body
We’re all seeking the next best thing to enhance our natural glow, boost our energy levels, and rejuvenate our overall well-being and while skincare does the trick - sometimes the solution can only come from the inside. With our lives growing increasingly busy, it's easy to feel run down and in desperate need of a pick-me-up. Enter the world of supplements: those little power-packed pills and potions promising to restore our vigor and vitality. But with an overwhelming array of choices lining the shelves, which ones genuinely deliver on their promise? Dive into our curated list of tried-and-true supplements that not only rejuvenate from the inside out but also fortify your beauty arsenal, ensuring you're at your radiant best, every single day. Welcome to your most beautiful reboot yet.
Why should you introduce beauty supplements into your daily routine?
At the core, our skin is a reflection of our inner health and nourishment. While topical treatments address external concerns, supplements dive deeper, targeting skin health from within. They provide essential vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin C and Zinc, that boost collagen production and combat oxidative stress, pivotal in maintaining skin's elasticity and shielding against premature aging. “Whenever someone is looking for that outer glow I always encourage them to go within! We know that the gut and skin are connected via the gut-skin axis. Often the skin can give us a good idea about what might be going on inside and therefore supporting the gut may have a knock-on effect on your complexion. Our gut is where we absorb those skin-supportive nutrients (including Vitamins A and C, zinc and collagen too), metabolize hormones, and detoxify, so it makes sense that we want to keep our gut in good health to help our skin glow.” says Jo Woodhurst, Head of Nutrition at Ancient + Brave.
"Beauty starts from within” shares Dr Simoné Laubscher PhD, founder of Rejuv Wellness and formulator of WelleCo’s ingestible beauty collection “If you’ve nourished your body on the inside, it’s reflected on the outside with thick, glossy hair, strong nails and glowing skin. Supplementation can play a key part of this, providing ingredients that aim to nourish and rejuvenate these areas from the inside-out, rather than topically on the surface of the skin. These are known as beauty supplements, or ‘ingestible beauty’.
Because digestive health shows up on our skin, nourishing your skin from the inside-out is integral to a beautiful, glowing complexion. Skin is often referred to as the third kidney because, for example, whatever the liver doesn’t want, it dumps onto the kidneys and what the kidneys can’t handle, it will dump into the skin!
Topical treatments are important because they treat the superficial layer (or the epidermis area) of the skin, but for longer-lasting and more effective results, you want to treat the dermis and the hypodermis, which is best done internally.
Skin is the largest organ in the body and it’s an average size of two square feet for an adult – so this mighty organ, like all other organs, needs to be nurtured from the inside. I usually suggest my patients adopt more alkaline than acidic habits; this means eat less meat, dairy, gluten, caffeinated drinks and sugar, and eat more fruits, salad, vegetables, fish, beans/pulses, rice, quinoa and sweet potato.
Ramping up your intake of super greens like barley grass, wheatgrass, alfalfa, spinach and spirulina are all nutritional powerhouses that help to balance the acidity in your skin and the alkalinity in your blood. When that balance is achieved, your skin holds moisture and your cells function properly, giving you that radiant glow.
Many ask why we need to supplement and I always reply by explaining that, due to over-farming and many toxic chemicals added to our food, we need to supplement to reduce inflammation and help our body’s function – for example vitamins like A, C and E are really important for good skin health, while B vitamins are essential to hair health, helping the body carry oxygen to the scalp and promoting hair growth. If we’re not getting these, and others, from our food on a regular enough basis, this is where supplementation can help."
Why menopausal women should consider supplements
Dr Shahzadi Harper, Viviscal Brand Ambassador and Menopause Expert discusses the benefits of supplementation especially for women who are menopausal. “Women can find health benefits when taking supplements as they work by putting minerals and vitamins back into your body that you may be lacking – especially during perimenopause and menopause when your hormones are out of balance. Also, many women are worried about weight gain so can often be on low-calorie diets and not get enough vitamins and supplements through diet alone. Adding a supplement can be essential.
Many women tend to suffer from low Vitamin D levels which are known to cause symptoms such as fatigue, low mood and can also be a factor in weight gain, so it’s essential that women boost their Vitamin D when they are going through menopause. One way to achieve this is taking a vitamin B-6 supplement during and after menopause which can help prevent symptoms caused by low serotonin levels.
Some women can experience heavy periods, so I also recommend an iron supplement, especially if periods are heavy and frequent, as an easy way to maintain daily health from the inside out. Also if you are vegan/vegetarian it’s important to aa a B12 supplement for energy and mood.”
How long does it typically take to see results from supplements?
There’s no set time frame or a magic, overnight fix and most supplements will provide clinical data on when the first results can be expected. Marie Reynolds, Global Skin & Wellness Expert recommends that results “will completely depend on the individual, the constitution of the person, as well as other factors such as how committed you are to taking the supplements, if you are taking them as advised and your lifestyle etc. Another factor is the quality of ingredients - the better quality the more likely you are to see results quicker too. For example, when taking collagen - make sure it has a strength of at LEAST 2000 dalton, make sure it is encapsulated (so that it doesn’t get affected by acidic stomach acid) and definitely ensure there are no sugars present - sugar is the arch enemy of collagen! For any supplement, you should give a minimum of 8-12 weeks to see results”.
What are some of the key ingredients/vitamins that can be beneficial to all skin types?
There are so many vitamins and ingredients that are beneficial to absolutely all skin, some of Marie’s favourites are:
Vitamin C - helps to build capillary walls and is a potent antioxidant, it also increases oxygen in the system which is important for increasing energy when then helps to repair the skin, very good for cellular renewal! You should always take collagen with a Vitamin C as it will help it to work efficiently in the skin.
Vitamin A - helps with cell renewal and repair and is another key antioxidant for skin.
Essential Fatty Acids (like vitamin e / omega 3) - good for the lipid barrier and helping to combat trans epidermal water loss and stops bacteria from forming - also hydrating and boosting for skin.
Astaxanthin - which is a very potent antioxidant and a natural SPF.
L-Glutamine - for supporting the lipid barrier.
Marine Collagen / Collagen - Collagen supplements are not only good for the skin but for fascia health, which is the interlinking network throughout the body influencing ligaments, tissues and tendons and guess what it is made of ... Collagen. Collagen is an important complex protein in the body that provides structural integrity to key areas such as the skin, hair, nails, bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, fascia, teeth, gums and blood vessels. In fact, collagen is responsible for making up 75% of our skin composition.
B Vitamins - B1 is good for acne prone/irritated skin, B2 is good for sensitive skin Silica - a natural tissue salt which is really good for skin hair and nails.
Probiotics - both pre and probiotics are really important for skin, prebiotics boost the health bacteria we have in the epidermal microbiome and probiotics add what we may be failing in. The epidermal microbiome is important for the innate/skin’s immune system, it is really important that the skin’s immune system is balanced so that we don’t get any sensitivity, breakouts or impactions.
What makes an unhappy gut?
If we know that supplements can balance the body and gut - that means that our gut must be out of balance to begin with, but why is this the case? So now we know how the gut and skin communicate to each other. Let’s look at what makes a gut imbalanced. Lorraine Perretta, Head of Nutrition at Advanced Nutrition Programme calls an out-of-balance gut, a “S-A-D gut due to the words all beginning with each letter of the word ‘S-A-D’. Some factors that can contribute to this are:
Stress
Smoking
Sleep problems
Alcohol
Ageing
Antibiotics
Diet (High sugar, low fibre, food intolerances)
If some of the above is relevant to you, you may have experienced symptoms of dysbiosis mentioned previously, including digestive issues, poor skin quality, lethargy, and poor concentration. Now let’s see what changes you can make for a happier, healthier gut”.
Artis London Recovery Complex
Best for: Skin Recovery
Developed by internationally-acclaimed surgeon Dr Paul Banwell, these supplements offer unparalleled skin restoration and are a standard for post-surgery care. The formula is a powerhouse quartet of Marine Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E makes it an unparalleled asset for scar healing and skin health. Marine Collagen ramps up skin hydration and elasticity, addressing concerns from wrinkling to discolouration. Meanwhile, Hyaluronic Acid accelerates wound healing with its superior moisture retention and promotion of new blood vessels. Vitamins C and E not only boost collagen production but also fortify the skin's barrier, making it resilient and radiant.
Available at Artis London.
Welleco The Super Elixir in Blood Orange
Best for: Taste
Embrace the epitome of holistic health with Welleco's Super Elixir in the enticing Blood Orange flavor, Australia's premier all-in-one greens powder. Crafted meticulously under the expertise of Dr. Simone Laubscher, a renowned Clinical Nutritionist and Naturopath, this elixir offers an impressive blend of over 40 naturally derived ingredients. Gone are the days of compromising taste for health; the Super Elixir assures a flavorful experience devoid of the typical bitter greens taste.Additionally, its prowess in reducing bloating stands out as a testament to its comprehensive wellness approach.
Available now at Welleco.
Pura Collagen Glow+
Best for: Achieving Glowing Skin
Unlock the secret to radiant skin, lustrous hair, and robust nails with Pura Collagen Glow+. Touted as the definitive collagen powder for those dedicated to ageless beauty, Glow+ stands apart in its promise of rejuvenating your body's natural collagen matrix in a mere 4 weeks. With VERISOL at its heart—essentially the building block of our skin, hair, and nails—Glow+ is designed to combat deep-set wrinkles, enhance skin elasticity, and promote an enviable glow. But that's not all; expect stronger, more luxurious hair, nails that resist breakage, and, with continued use, a noticeable reduction in cellulite. Its magic lies in its unique formulation: hydrolysed collagen peptides, optimized for better absorption through an enzymatic process, form the core of Glow+.
Available at Pura Collagen.
Viviscal Hair Growth Supplements
Best for: Hair Growth
In essence, Viviscal is not just a supplement; it's a holistic approach to hair health, ensuring every strand thrives with life and luster. The powerhouse AminoMar C, a marine protein complex, sits at the heart of the formula, providing the necessary proteins for hair growth and repair. Complementing it are Biotin, which aids in protein synthesis, and minerals like Zinc and Iron that promote overall hair and scalp health. The inclusion of Acerola Cherry Extract ensures robust antioxidant support while enhancing nutrient absorption, especially vital for iron assimilation. Meanwhile, Silica, derived from the Horsetail plant, and Millet seed extract, packed with multi-minerals, work synergistically to strengthen connective tissues and maintain collagen, both vital for hair strength.
Available at Viviscal.
Marie Reynolds London Ocean EFA
Best for: Omega 3 Intake
Ocean EFA contains the highest grade Antarctic Krill Oil and is sustainably sourced from fisheries in the Antarctic through Aker BioMarine. The supplement contains omega 3 fatty acids, phospholipids to promote a healthy body and mind & protect from free radicals. Ocean EFA also contains the powerful antioxidant, astaxanthin. Antioxidants protect our cells from damage by harmful free radicals – unstable substances that are thought to contribute to certain chronic diseases.
Available at Marie Reynolds London.
Perricone MD Super Greens Dietary Supplement Powder
Best for: Antioxidant Protection
Formulated with the brand’s NRF2 Antioxidant Support Complex, as well as a powerful group of probiotics and phytonutrients, the dietary supplement helps to strengthen the body’s natural defences and protect against harmful external pollutants. The superfood formula also cleans from within, banishing toxins to create a super-healthy, younger-looking appearance on the outside.
Available from Perricone MD.
Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic
Best for: Pre and Pro Biotic Intake
This goes beyond simple digestive issues. The first of its kind, DS-01 includes clinically and scientifically studied probiotic strains that deliver core benefits to the gastrointestinal system which, in turn, influence systemic health. DS-01 contains probiotic strains which provide benefits around gastrointestinal function, skin health, heart health, gut immune function, gut barrier integrity, and micronutrient synthesis.
Available at Seed.
Advanced Nutrition Programme Skin Accumax
Best for: Problem Skin
This is the holy grail for my skin, and the only truly effective method I have found of keeping my skin clear. The ground-breaking formula developed by Nutritional Experts, Skin Accumax is different from any other supplement for problematic skin. The scientifically advanced formula synergises together vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E and phytonutrients to work from the inside out to support healthy skin.The key ingredient is the completely unique plant extract DIM. This exciting ingredient is so good that it’s even been patented, so you won’t find it in any other skincare supplement!
Available at Advanced Nutrition Programme.
Ancient + Brave True Collagen
Best for: Collagen Intake
This beautifully pure and clinically researched collagen is easily digestible and highly absorbable. The True Collagen powder is tasteless and odourless and easy to add to hot or cold drinks, workout smoothies or sprinkle onto food. The hydrolysed collagen peptides are exclusively sourced and originate from healthy animals. Collagen peptides are a natural by-product of bovine contributing to the whole use of the bovine and recapturing what otherwise would be ‘waste’ as a resource to manufacture new products. A real hero product for active lifestyles and beauty rituals to effortlessly nourish the body and skin from within.
Available now from Ancient + Brave.
FPP Classic 100% Fermented Papaya Preparation
Best for: Boosting your Immune System
FPP is a unique food supplement obtained by a specially patented process of fermentation of papaya fruit (Carica Papaya). During the ten-month process of bio fermentation, new compounds are formed that act as antioxidants and protect cells from oxidative stress by stimulating the immune system. Carefully monitored fermentation process guarantees the quality of the product and ensures its best performance. The product is loved by celebrities and used by supermodel Irene Shayk, film star Sharon Stone and the late fabulous Claudia Cardinale.
Available now at FPP.
SL:PT Essential Supplement
Best for: A Good Night’s Sleep
For those nights when sleep seems elusive, SL:PT Essential Supplement has got your back. Meticulously formulated by nutritional experts, this blend seamlessly marries vitamins, minerals, and botanicals, all revered for their sleep-enhancing qualities. Ideal for the occasionally restless sleeper, it's designed to support a wholesome, natural sleep without the hangover of drowsiness or the pitfalls of addiction. Boasting ingredients like L-Tryptophan and L-Theanine, which are scientifically shown to enhance sleep, and enriched with calming botanicals such as Lavender and Chamomile, this supplement promises not just sleep, but sleep of a superior quality.
Available at SL:PT.
Altrient Liposomal Vitamin C
Best for: Vitamin C Intake
Altrient’s ground breaking patented process ensures that nutrients are able to pass through the digestive system intact using Liposomal Technology.This means that Altrient C delivers more efficient absorption - exceeding standard vitamin C absorption rates. And you can’t underestimate a healthy dose of Vitamin C, Vitamin C contributes to normal immune and nervous system function, normal collagen formation for the function of skin, blood vessels, bones, cartilage, gums & teeth, the reduction of tiredness and fatigue and the protection of cells from oxidative stress.
Available at Altrient.
Hum Daily Cleanse
Best for: Detoxification
Powered by 13 detoxifying ingredients, including green algae, beetroot, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Matcha, herbs and minerals, Daily Cleanse, is carefully formulated to target breakouts, clear the skin and body from toxins, support skin clarity and aid the function of normal digestion. Unwanted toxins can build up in the body and excrete through the skin causing breakouts, Daily Cleanse clears skin from the inside out supporting all the organs that help the body detoxify the liver, bowels, kidneys and lymphatic system.
Available at Hum Nutrition.
Vida Glow Gut Pro
Best for: Gut Health
More than just a gut-relief aid, this evidence-based probiotic serves as a double-duty solution, ensuring both optimal gut functionality and the maintenance of a balanced vaginal pH. Clinically studied probiotic strains, including Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, and Lactobacillus reuteri, ensure a holistic approach to women's wellness. These strains, integral for vaginal health, join forces with the soothing properties of Ginger and Gentiana Lutea. While ginger acts as a tonic to alleviate bloating and support digestion, Gentiana Lutea steps in to further reduce feelings of fullness, ensuring comprehensive gastrointestinal comfort.
Available now at Vida Glow.