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SKIN HEALTH: Vitamin C and E

Updated: Mar 16, 2023

Your skin is the largest organ of your body and it’s known for acting as your body’s main line of defense. Many factors can affect the integrity of the skin (sun exposure/UV radiation, hot water, poor diet, lack of sleep, etc.) However, there are a few vitamins you can add to your diet or skincare regimen that are packed with antioxidants. For example, Vitamin C and Vitamin E are great co-antioxidants to help your skin stay radiant and beautiful.

Topical vitamin E being dropped onto the hand


Vitamin C and E both prevent signs of aging in skin, can restore collagen synthesis, and counteract oxidative damage. Fun fact…Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin that humans can ONLY obtain from their diet as we have no ability to synthesize it. It also helps with anti-aging and even signals the body when there is cell growth or differentiation. Vitamin E, on the other hand, is a lipid soluble vitamin that is consistently used to improve the outcome of wound healing. Vitamin E also maintains the connective tissues firmness and texture.


What is the difference between lipid and water soluble?


Water soluble vitamins, like vitamin C, are quick to absorb into the body like a powder being dissolved in water. Whatever is not processed and used by the body is excreted through urine or feces. For example, have you ever taken too many B-vitamins and been surprised by your bright yellow urine? Or taken too much vitamin C and found yourself on the toilet in a hurry? On the other hand, lipid soluble vitamins are slower to absorb into the body and must be paired with fats in order to absorb well. The remainder of these lipid soluble vitamins is stored in the liver and most of them naturally reside in the body.


Whether it be an increase in both Vitamin C and E in one’s diet or opting to apply these topically. Numerous studies have shown that these two co-antioxidants are great for maintaining skin health and beauty. Book a session with our Esthetician for more information on how to better improve YOUR skin.


At IVY Integrative, you can work with one practitioner or build your own team of holistic practitioners! Reach your optimum health in-person or online. Check out our Get Started page to learn how to work with us!


Until next time!

Haley Haberman B.S HSMT


References:

  1. Baumann, L. S., & Spencer, J. (2001, December 24). The effects of topical vitamin E on the cosmetic ... - wiley online library. Retrieved June 9, 2022, from https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1046/j.1524-4725.1999.08223.x

  2. Djerassi, D. (n.d.). The role of vitamins in aged skin - ISCD. Retrieved June 9, 2022, from http://www.iscd.it/files/THE-ROLE-OF-VITAMINS-IN-AGED-SKIN.pdf

  3. Wang, K., Jiang, H., Li, W., Qiang, M., Dong, T., & Li, H. (1AD, January 1). Role of vitamin C in skin diseases. Frontiers. Retrieved June 7, 2022, from https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2018.00819/full?crsi=6624964245&cicada_org_src=healthwebmagazine.com&cicada_org_mdm=direct




Disclaimer:


This information is generalized and intended for educational purposes only. Due to potential individual contraindications, please see your primary care provider before implementing any strategies in these posts.

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