Beauty & Skin Care

There have been a number of studies published over the years documenting the importance of supplementation when it comes to excessive exposure to UV radiation, otherwise known as sunburn. In the January 1998 Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, researchers from Germany studied effects of UV radiation and use of antioxidants. In this double-blinded, placebo-controlled study, ten subjects took either two grams a day of vitamin C combined with 1,000 Units of natural d-alpha tocopherol (vitamin E) or placebo. Sunburn reaction was tested before and after eight days of supplementation. It was found that those individuals who took combined vitamins C and E reduced the sunburn reaction which, of course, is basically free-radical damage, to the skin. This free radical damage to the skin can subsequently lead to the development of abnormal cells and DNA damage which can cause wrinkles, accelerate aging and even lead to development of major health concerns.

There have been a number of other studies in the medical literature, likewise showing benefit for combination of vitamin C and vitamin E to reduce skin inflammation from exposure to UV radiation. There was another study published May 2003 in the journal Carcinogenesis regarding use of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil. In this double-blinded study, 42 healthy subjects were given four grams a day of purified omega-3 EPA or mono-unsaturated oleic acid for three months. The subjects were then exposed to UV radiation in a dose sufficient to induce to mild to moderate sunburn. Blood samples were taken before and after exposure to the UV light. It was found that the threshold to sunburn was increased in those supplemented with EPA, whereas there was no change in the group taking oleic acid. Additionally, the group taking the dietary EPA showed a reduction in certain markers in the blood, indicating a reduction in damage to DNA. Read more about this study here.

Nutrients for Healthy, Youthful Skin

Dr. Perricone recommends several oral antioxidants, including alpha lipoic acid. Alpha lipoic acid is a very special antioxidant that has both water- and fat-soluble properties. It's believed to be a wonderful nutrient for rejuvenating the skin, as well as providing additional health benefits, including functioning as a powerful free radical inhibitor and offsetting the damaging effects of oxidative stress.

In a study published in the journal Nutrition, researchers indicated that alpha lipoic acid may particularly benefit individuals with poor blood sugar health1. People with poor blood sugar health are known to have excessive oxidative stress. The article notes that in experimental and clinical studies, alpha lipoic acid has shown benefits for visual health and arterial health.

Dr. Perricone also recommends in his book a daily dose of 50 mg to 100 mg of alpha lipoic acid. This dose may be adequate for a healthy individual, but individuals who'd like to fight aging more aggressively or individuals with concerns about blood sugar health may want to consider a daily dose of 600 mg.

Dr. Perricone recommends another powerful antioxidant known as coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). CoQ10 plays an integral role in cellular energy production and may benefit cardiovascular, immune, blood sugar and even oral health. Dr. Perricone suggests a daily dose of between 30 mg to 100 mg of CoQ10 for a healthy individual.

Read more about this issue here.

Astaxanthin: The Ultimate Summer Supplement?

Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant and carotenoid that could be up to 550 times more powerful than Vitamin E, and produces at least 10 times the activity of beta carotene, another carotenoid. Astaxanthin is one of the most versatile carotenoids available. There have been several studies indicating that astaxanthin might be the perfect "Summer Supplement," as it may protect against the harmful effects of the sun's UV radiation. Plus, it also reduces the oxidative damage (often felt as pain and inflammation) induced by exercise. You'll be able to get outside, exercise and feel great about it. Read more about Astaxanthin here.

Better Together: Avalon Organics Coenzyme Q10 Wrinkle Defense Crème -- 1.75 Fluid Ounce Daily Anti-Aging Protection to Reduce Fine Lines and Wrinkles - For All Skin Types. Save 29% "This is the best creme I have ever used. I cannot believe how wonderful my skin feels and how young it makes me look. I am constantly getting compliments on my skin and they want to know what I am using. I really push this product in my store because I love it so much. Please never stop carrying it. Thank you Sassi." By sassi from Magee, Ms (read all my reviews) Avalon Organics CoQ10 Perfecting Facial Toner -- 8 oz. A Perfecting Facial Toner with CoQ10, an essential antioxidant found in every living cell of your body, and the energy source for new cells and smooth, firm skin. Save 30% "I love this toner! I started using the CoQ10 cleanser without the toner. When I finally got the toner, it made a huge difference. This toner smells great, is very soothing, and really removes the dirt, make-up etc. that the cleanser can leave behind. It just feels good on my skin. Does not dry out or strip skin. I will continue to use it even if I switch cleansers." By jayhunni (read all my reviews)

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