When it comes to achieving healthy skin and luscious hair, many people turn to topical treatments like serums, creams, and oils. While these products can certainly provide some benefits, it’s important not to overlook the role nutrition plays in the health of our skin and hair. While following a skincare routine, engaging in good skincare practices, and investing in the right ingredients and products is imperative to maintaining your glow, internal skincare is just as vital as the foods you feed your body will reflect on your skin. Eating healthy is absolutely imperative, but may not be enough. You need to make sure your meals are balanced to give you the right and best nutrition. (Also read: Foods with natural SPF qualities to nourish your skin and protect it from the sun )
Essential micronutrients for skin and hair
Many people don’t realize that healthy skin and hair starts from within, especially with a healthy diet rich in essential micronutrients. (Pexels)
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“When it comes to healthy skin and hair, there are 4 classifications of foods that contribute to healthy skin – Minerals, vitamins, amino acids and fatty acids. Minerals such as iron, magnesium, calcium, copper and zinc, among others, are important for healthy skin.Zinc is an excellent antioxidant that controls acne and promotes the growth of nails and hair.Copper is also known to promote the maturation of collagen, which which further improves skin elasticity. Iron helps improve hair texture by increasing the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the root and scalp,” says Dr. Rashmi Shetty, Cosmetic Dermatologist, Ra Skin and Aesthetics.
She further shared with HT Lifestyle, “Amino acids like taurine, arginine, glycine, lysine, cysteine, methionine, etc. are the building blocks that help build growth proteins. taurine strengthens and hydrates keratinocytes which are the epidermal cells that produce keratin.It also protects against premature aging and environmental toxins.The other amino acids also facilitate hair growth and reduce inflammation.
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Speaking of essential vitamins, Dr. Rashmi says, “Vitamins such as A, B1, B5, B7 (biotin) and vitamins C and D are essential contributors to good skin and hair health. Vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin, helps to treat acne.and also prevents premature aging of the skin, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.Vitamin A plays an important role in cell growth with particular importance in the structure and skin health.B3, which is our favorite – niacinamide, shrinks large pores, evens skin tone and minimizes fine lines and wrinkles.B5, also known as pantothenic acid, keeps skin hydrated and without acne.
“Lastly, fatty acids. They are equally essential as they help improve skin hydration by trapping moisture in the skin and limiting moisture loss due to external factors,” Dr. Rashmi concludes. .
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