Remember the days when you’d look in the mirror and find an unwanted spot or blemish and the first thing you’d do is reach for a topical skincare product to help treat the issue? Now, the line between the skincare and health industries has become increasingly more blurred as people have become more reliant on herbs and supplements to work alongside their skincare routine to help improve the appearance of their skin.
Achieving an effortless glow and a clear complexion is now a balancing act between what you put in your body and what you put on your skin. So, which herbs and vitamins are best for helping to clear up your skin? Read on to find out how to create a holistic skincare treatment and banish blemishes naturally.
If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding some of these recommendations won’t be for you so make sure you do your research or talk to a healthcare professional before adding anything to your daily routine.
Zinc
If you’re struggling with hormonal or adult acne look no further than Zinc. Zinc is an essential mineral that helps regulate hormones as well as support the immune system. Supplementing with Zinc can help reduce inflammation, balance sebum production, and relieve the symptoms of PMS. Its antioxidant properties also support the skin’s natural structure and renewal process, allowing for a clearer and brighter complexion.
Vitamin C
You’ve probably seen a rise in popularity in Vitamin C serums recently - and there’s a good reason why! But why just add Vitamin C topically? Supplementing with Vitamin C helps facilitate collagen and elastin formation and contains amazing wound healing properties. It also aids in reducing the redness of acne and repairing the skin after breakouts so that you won’t have to worry about your skin scarring after bouts of acne.
Essential Fatty Acids (EFA’s)
Essential fatty acids are your Omega 3,6,7 and 9’s. EFA’s are the building blocks of healthy cell membranes and keep important things like water and nutrients in your cells to keep your skin healthy and hydrated. The good news is you don’t have to go out and eat fish for every meal, you can supplement with a fish-derived or vegan supplement to help you achieve a radiant and glowing complexion.
Milk Thistle
When it comes to the health of our skin, the liver plays an extremely important role. Milk Thistle helps to improve the status of the liver and keep hormone levels balanced, by flushing your liver of any nasty toxins that might be hanging around. In turn, this will help to cleanse and purify the skin. It also helps your liver process fat more efficiently, and, of course, healthy fats are how we get that dewy glow (thanks EFA’s). Note that Milk Thistle has not been evaluated to be safe for breastfeeding or pregnant women.
Chlorella
You didn’t think you’d get out of this list without a yummy green, did you!? Chlorella is a nutrient-rich green that can help reduce your body's stress levels and hormonal imbalances, aids in the elimination of toxins as well as reduces inflammation. So no matter what your acne is triggered by this will be helpful in restoring your skin’s vitality. Note that Chlorella has not been evaluated to be safe for breastfeeding or pregnant women.
If you’re not breastfeeding or pregnant taking a supplement that incorporates a blend of natural herbs and vitamins to promote glowing and healthy skin is a great idea, here are some of our favourite women’s supplements:
Tia Miers - Balance Hormone Support
JS Health Vitamins - Skin & Digestion Formula
The Beauty Chef - Glow Inner Beauty Powder
*This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.