Antioxidants. We talk about them quite often. Definitely an essential element in your skin care regimen. However, how seriously should we take the claims of the antioxidant vitamins and supplements on the market?

Knowing you can ingest antioxidants via the right foods, in addition to topically applying antioxidants, is the addition of a pill really necessary? What you should know is that topical antioxidants only work on the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin that protects against the environment, making up 20%), not the dermis (the foundation for the epidermis, making up 80%). Personally, I have relied on a solid skin care routine and eating healthy foods. I have yet to take an anti-aging vitamin. But I must say, I am curious. You might just find this in queue for review in the upcoming months.

If you are considering purchasing a pill form antioxidant, please consult your doctor first. Make sure to look for the USP (United States Pharmacopoeia) seal on the packaging. This will ensure that the product has been tested and contains the ingredients that are stated on the bottle. If you are not sure which vitamins to look for, consider a list of antioxidants, in addition to referencing this list recommended by Drs. Oz and Murad. Also, you will find the foods associated with these antioxidants.

• Vitamin A - increases elastin, collagen and hyaluronic acid (Found in: leafy green vegetables and orange and yellow vegetables)
• Vitamin E - hydrates skin and reduces inflammation (Found in: wheat germ and sunflower oils, sunflower seeds, sweet potato, avocado, pear, spinach)
• Vitamin C - builds collagen and protects against sunburn (Found in: green vegetables, citrus fruits, strawberries, black currants, blackberries, cherries, grapes)
• Coenzyme Q10 - helps antioxidants to work better (Found in: fish oils, nuts, fish, meat)
• Biotin - hydrates and strengthens skin, hair and nails (Found in: egg yolks, peanuts, peanut butter, hazelnuts, sesame seeds)
• Lycopene - normalizes cell function (Found in: tomatoes and tomato products, watermelon, grapefruit)
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids - moisturizes the skin and reduces inflammation in the body (Found in: salmon, walnuts, olive oil, flaxseed oil, coldwater fish, nuts)
• Pomegranate Extract - strengthens skin (Found in: pomegranates)
• Astaxanthin - improves skin elasticity (Found in: yeast, salmon, trout, krill, shrimp, crayfish, crustaceans)
• Green Tea - thickens epidermis and protects against photodamage (Found in: green teas)

Still confused? Your dermatologist can answer further questions and point you in the right direction. And feel free to reach out to our community to share any comments and/or concerns you may have.

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