Skin Vitamins

Vitamins are necessary for our body to function optimally but certain vitamins can help improve our skin health too. Below is a brief breakdown of what each vitamin is for and how it helps the skin in particular. Vitamins are found in most skincare ranges now whether they are incorporated into moisturisers or standalone serums. It is useful to know what their function is and which one or two may be a beneficial addition to your skincare routine. I have included the chemical names as quite often it is them rather that the letters A, B, C and E which you will see in ingredients list of products.

Vitamin A (Retinol)

Important in body for immunity, vision and skin

Present in cheese, eggs, oily fish, dairy products and liver. Also beta-carotene containing foods such as leafy greens, carrots and mango are important as the body can convert beta-carotene to vitamin A.

How it helps the skin

When applied directly to skin retinol and its derivatives have been shown to reduce the effects of skin-aging by increasing skin thickness, stimulating production of new blood vessels to the skin and stimulating production of collagen (skin's structural protein).

Retinol, and in particular retinoic acid, can increase skin sensitivity as it can cause redness, scaling and dryness. It is important to begin incorporating retinoids gradually into your skincare routine and use SPF to reduce the effects of sensitivity.



Vitamin B (range of subtypes including Niacinamide)

Important for helping the body convert food to energy, preventing heart disease and improving skin function

Present in meats, fish, peanuts, avocado

How it helps the skin

When applied to the skin niacinamide can increase ceramides which improves barrier function, so skin is more hydrated, making it less prone to irritation or redness. It has been shown to decrease appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and also dark spots (hyperpigmentation).

It is anti-inflammatory and may be beneficial to those with oily skin prone to breakouts. It has been shown to reduce appearance of pores, by improving the elasticity of the skin, and improve overall skin texture. It is generally well tolerated with only rare cases of mild irritation reported with highly concentrated serums.


Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid)

Important in body for growth, development and repair of tissues, collagen production, iron absorption

Present in fruits and vegetables

How it helps the skin

Ascorbic acid is an antioxidant which helps to protect the skin from the day-to-day stresses like sun, pollution etc. It helps to regulate melanin (pigment) production in the skin so can make the skin appear brighter and more illuminous. It also boosts collagen so will plump and firm the skin. At low concentrations it can be used during the day, however, at high concentrations (approx 10% or more) it is best used at night.


Vitamin E (tocopherol)

Important in body as an anti-oxidant, for immunity, healthy skin and eyes

Present in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds

How it helps the skin

As an anti-oxidant, tocopherol provides long lasting support and hydration to skin that needs soothing or calming. It is suitable for sensitive skin and can help repair skin if it is rough, dry or flaking.


It is important to note that it will take time for vitamins to show their effectiveness, however with regular use within a good skincare regimen improvements to the skin should be noted after 3 to 6 months.

Let me know if you have found a vitamin product that has helped a concern or if you would like more advice, message me.

Your future skin will thank you!

Michelle x

 Tonic Pharmacy Online