We all desire healthy, youthful and glowing skin (you wouldn’t be reading this if you didn’t), and while it’s hardly rocket science that vitamins and minerals play a huge part in achieving this – many of us are unaware of what these wonder ingredients actually do, especially when applied topically via our skincare routines. That’s why we’ve created this definitive guide that breaks down the 10 best vitamins and minerals for skin, all of which can coincidentally be found in our DermaRDE+ powershot.
1. Pro vitamin B5: the hydrator
Also known as Panthenol, this super pro-vitamin binds and stores moisture to help with hydration, while also working to soothe and calm the skin.
2. Niacinamide: the all-rounder
This is a form of vitamin B3 and is best known for helping the skin maintain its normal barrier function, while harmonising skin tone, improving radiance and also targeting fine lines and wrinkles. Essentially, there’s very little this super ingredient can’t do.
3. Beta carotene: the great protector
This powerful antioxidant is derived from carrots, giving them their orange colour, and is converted by the body into vitamin A (aka retinol). It helps to protect the skin from environmental stress and pollution, while imparting a natural glow.
4. Betaine: the skin toner
Another wonder vitamin for hydration, betaine is an amino acid which is vital for moisturising and building blocks of protein to improve overall skin health and tone.
5. Iron: the glow-giver
Iron helps to activate B vitamins, which work to improve skin tone, radiance and balance the skin’s natural oils, which combine to deliver a glowing and youthful complexion. It’s also crucial for speeding up the skin’s recovery process.
6. Calcium: the first-aider
While many of us associate this mineral with our bones and teeth, calcium is also crucial to skin health. It’s mainly found in the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin), which means that it’s integral to speeding up the skin’s wound healing process and improving skin-cell regeneration to help combat the signs of ageing.
7. Potassium: the healer
This essential mineral supports the growth of new skin cells, which helps to speed up the healing process of blemishes and scars. It also works to moisturise the skin, target wrinkles and age spots, as well as protecting from UV rays.
8. Zinc: the calming one
Zinc is another essential mineral that plays an important role in skin health, specifically aiding wound healing with its anti-inflammatory properties. It’s particularly useful for people suffering with acne, eczema and rosacea.
9. Selenium: the youth restorer
Selenium is a mineral that works to ensure the skin remains firm and protected. It stops free radical damage, which prevents premature wrinkles from forming while also protecting cell membranes against UV damage, inflammation and pigmentation.
10. Inulin: the destresser
This brilliant prebiotic is often extracted from chicory root, and works to help the skin’s flora and fauna recover from stress by boosting and rebalancing the natural good bacteria. It also locks in hydration to prevent the skin from drying out.