Although we may feel our best during the warmer months, the sun can damage our skin if we don’t protect it properly. Extended periods of sun exposure can result in dehydration, discolouration and ageing of the skin. Therefore, it is important to protect our skin during this time, to keep us feeling and looking our best. Here are our top recommendations for summer skincare supplementation.
The Importance Of SPF
There are two types of UV light:
- Ultraviolet A (UVA) – has a longer wavelength which breaks down collagen and causes early aging of the skin.
- Ultraviolet B (UVB) – has a shorter wavelength which burns the skin.
As UV rays can pass through the clouds, we should be wearing SPF every day, regardless of the weather. Alongside routine use of SPF, natural collagen levels can be supported with supplementation.
Collagen has several key roles in the body, providing structure to our skin, hair and connective tissues. Our range of collagen products include, but are not limited to:
- Collagen & vitamin C effervescent tablets
- Collagen drinking powders
- Collagen sugar free gummies
Staying Hydrated
In the heat, our bodies sweat to keep us cool. Therefore, we lose a lot more water which can leave our skin feeling dry and rough. Additionally, the heat can also cause our skin to produce excess oils. Keeping hydrated is vital to maintaining the moisture in our skin and balancing out our natural oils. We can produce a wide variety of customised hydrating formulas to supplement the body’s ability to absorb water including:
- Electrolyte effervescent tablets
- Electrolyte drinking powders
Daily Nutrition
The vitamins and minerals that we get from our everyday diet play an important role in our skin health. But, which nutrients do we need more of during summer?
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an essential antioxidant that is found in the both the inner and outer layers of the skin. Vitamin C not only supports our natural collagen formation, but also protects our cells from the free radicals caused by UV radiation. As exposure to the sun’s rays is generally increased during the summer months, it is especially important to ensure we get enough of this vitamin over this period. Taking vitamin C orally can increase the effectiveness of sunscreens applied to the skin to protect against the sun's harmful UV rays though additionally aiding the healing process of wounds and damaged skin as well as improving dry skin.
Vitamin C has an abundance of supplementary benefits to our general wellbeing, including immune function support and increased iron absorption, making it a necessary vitamin to ensure we have sufficient levels of on a daily basis.
Vitamin E
Similar to vitamin C, vitamin E also has antioxidant properties which makes it important for skin protection against UV damage and one of the best summer supplements for the skin. Normally, the body produces vitamin E through an oily substance that is released through the pores of the skin called sebum. In the right balance, sebum helps nourish the skin and prevents dryness. Vitamin E also helps treat skin inflammation helping you recover from mild sunburns faster and with fewer symptoms in the summer months.
Vitamin E is most commonly found in nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables but should also be supported with a daily supplement during the hotter months when higher amounts are required. Many cosmetic companies have already discovered the superpower of vitamin E and is now commonly found in many face and skin creams. However, Vitamin E is much more effective when taken orally.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A, also known as retinol, is important for cell growth and general skin health. The top layer of the skin is formed by horny cells. Vitamin A promotes the formation of these cells and supports the regeneration process of the skin. This has a skin-improving effect and can even help to make the skin smoother. Symptoms of Vitamin A deficiency include dry skin, slow skin regeneration, acne and breakouts. Like Vitamin E, Vitamin A can be applied topically to the skin, although supplements can help to boost levels from within.
In addition to its healthy effect on the skin, Vitamin A also has a positive impact on the eyes, and actually, forms the entire basis of vision. Even a slight deficiency can cause problems with vision, including difficulty seeing at night and reading. Taking vitamin A in the summer months can prevent vision damage from the sun and also help you see more clearly.
Although, the absorption of all essential vitamins, nutrients and minerals is possible through a food first approach, a hectic daily routine or too many activities in the sun can make this challenging for even the healthiest of eaters. Dietary supplements are an easy way to make sure your body has all the vitamins it needs for to keep you looking and feeling your best. At Opalbond, we have a range of summer skincare supplement formats and formulations that we can provide in private label. If you’re looking to extend your product range to include the latest in supplement product innovation, please get in touch at enquiries@opalbond.co.uk.