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Radiant Skin (and Hair) from Within!

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Maine chapter.

It’s almost as if fall’s crisp air snuck up on us over night. Don’t get me wrong, I love the changing seasons and the activities that come along with it (not to mention scarves, sweaters and boots). However, the biggest downfall is that the transition is always so harsh on my skin and hair. Everything seems to instantly get DRY, DULL and FLAT. It’s this time of year that I miss my beachy hair and glowing, tanned skin, thanks to the natural vitamin D from the sun. BUT, what if I told you there are ways to help prevent the drying, dulling and flatness from occurring… from the inside– out?

People often think in order to achieve healthy hair and skin; it’s all about what products to apply. Wrong. Hasn’t your mother ever told you that beauty is from the inside-out? Products are great, yes. I would personally die without them. But just think, vitamins and antioxidants not only naturally enrich the appearance of your skin and hair, but most importantly the health of them. Sounds more appealing than solely relying on chemicals, genes and “a good hair day” for that extra volume in your hair.  Here is a cocktail of vitamins and antioxidants (not limited) that are essential for healthy skin, hair and even nails.
 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil)-

The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil can facilitate hair growth. Omega-3 fatty acids help nourish hair follicles. This results in both a faster, stronger growth of hair and also in the prevention of hair loss. You should not apply fish oil directly to your hair; rather, it should be incorporated through diet. Not only does it promote hair growth, it also helps maintain hair quality. The protein found in fish oil helps your hair stay strong and durable. Fish oil has been proven to help a handful of skin problems like acne and eczema. The properties of fish oil help your skin retain moisture and hydrate spots of inflammation. It’s also shown to make nails glossier and more flexible.
 
Vitamin A: This antioxidant helps maintain the structural integrity of cells and the healthy functioning of mucous linings. It has been shown to virtually eliminate mild cases of acne as it helps reduce the production of sebum, which clogs pores. Vitamin A along with adequate protein intake generates healthy hair.
 


Vitamin E:
This powerful antioxidant helps the body retain moisture and can prevent sun damage. Its cell protection qualities contribute to vitamin E’s prevention of tissue degeneration and premature aging. Vitamin E also promotes the absorption of vitamin A.
 
Zinc: Zinc works with vitamin C to make collagen. It also supports the tissue-rebuilding actions of vitamin A, which helps maintain healthy skin cells and may be helpful in generating new skin after burns or injury. Nails and hair contain zinc; therefore, this mineral is important for their maintenance.
 
B Complex Vitamins: This group of vitamins is very important for the health of skin and hair. These vitamins are helpful for dry or itchy dermatitis, rashes, or cracks at the corners of the mouth. A deficiency can result in various skin problems and hair loss.


 
WATER!!– Hydration is key. Your skin is intricately tied to your health.  Water is one of the easiest and healthiest things you can put in your body. Staying hydrated will brighten and clear your eyes, give you a radiant complexion, and flush out any nasty toxins in your body. Not only will it improve your overall appearance, but most importantly, the way you feel, as well. J
 
 
DISCLAIMER: Too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. Even with vitamins, you can take too much.  Always take the recommended daily amount, taking extra doesn’t mean the effects will be greater or work quicker. Always read the label and if you are taking medication make sure to consult your doctor before starting a vitamin regimen (just to make sure it doesn’t effect the medication in anyway). Also, these vitamins are not only good for skin and hair, they are also all linked too many more health benefits. For the sake and relevance of the article, I only provided beauty benefits!

photo credit: google images