SKIN HEALTH
Description
Body System
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[35] Kim E, Hwang K, Lee J, Han SY, Kim EM, Park J, Cho JY. Skin protective effect of epigallocatechin gallate. International journal of molecular sciences. 2018 Jan 6;19(1):173.
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[37] Huang ZJ, Zhou XH, Wen WQ, Huang ZT, Xuan J, Gui P, Peng W, Wang G. Enhanced skin benefits of EGCG loaded in nonapeptide-1-conjugated mesoporous silica nanoparticles to reverse skin photoaging. International Journal of Pharmaceutics. 2024 Sep 12:124690.
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[39] Long V. Aloe vera in dermatology—The plant of immortality. JAMA dermatology. 2016 Dec 1;152(12):1364-.
[40] Koh KJ, Pearce AL, Marshman G, Finlay‐Jones JJ, Hart PH. Tea tree oil reduces histamine‐induced skin inflammation. British Journal of Dermatology. 2002 Dec 1;147(6):1212-7.
[41] Ardiana D. The role of Tea tree oil as a skin antimicrobial: A literature study. Medical and Health Science Journal. 2021 Sep 23;5(1):26-33.
[42] Białoń M, Krzyśko-Łupicka T, Nowakowska-Bogdan E, Wieczorek PP. Chemical composition of two different lavender essential oils and their effect on facial skin microbiota. Molecules. 2019 Sep 8;24(18):3270.
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[44] Danila A, Muresan EI, Ibanescu SA, Popescu A, Danu M, Zaharia C, Türkoğlu GC, Erkan G, Staras AI. Preparation, characterization, and application of polysaccharide-based emulsions incorporated with lavender essential oil for skin-friendly cellulosic support. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules. 2021 Nov 30;191:405-13.
[45] Elsaie LT, El Mohsen AM, Ibrahim IM, Mohey-Eddin MH, Elsaie ML. Effectiveness of topical peppermint oil on symptomatic treatment of chronic pruritus. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology. 2016 Oct 11:333-8.
[46] Herro E, Jacob SE. Mentha piperita (peppermint). DERM. 2010 Dec 1;21(6):327-9.
[47] Han X, Rodriguez D, Parker TL. Biological activities of frankincense essential oil in human dermal fibroblasts. Biochimie open. 2017 Jun 1;4:31-5.
[48] Choi WS, Kwon MH, Kim YC. Inhibition Effects of Frankincense Oil on Skin Aging (I): Focussed on Gross Examination. Environmental Analysis Health and Toxicology. 2008;23(2):119-27.
[49] Lohani A, Mishra AK, Verma A. Cosmeceutical potential of geranium and calendula essential oil: Determination of antioxidant activity and in vitro sun protection factor. Journal of cosmetic dermatology. 2019 Apr;18(2):550-7.
[50] Ande SN, Bakal RL. Potential herbal essential oils: Are they super natural skin protector. Innov. Pharm. Pharm. 2022;10:19-24.
[51] Aksu M, Incegul Y, Kiralan SS, Kiralan M, Ozkan G. Cold pressed carrot (Daucus carota subsp. sativus) seed oil. InCold Pressed Oils 2020 Jan 1 (pp. 335-343). Academic Press.
[52] Siddique I. The Effect of the Addition of Carrot Seed Oil and Raspberry Seed Oil on the UV Intensity of a Sunscreen. Journal of the South Carolina Academy of Science. 2024;21(3):8.
[53] Varma SR, Sivaprakasam TO, Arumugam I, Dilip N, Raghuraman M, Pavan KB, Rafiq M, Paramesh R. In vitro anti-inflammatory and skin protective properties of Virgin coconut oil. Journal of traditional and complementary medicine. 2019 Jan 1;9(1):5-14.
[54] Nevin KG, Rajamohan T. Effect of topical application of virgin coconut oil on skin components and antioxidant status during dermal wound healing in young rats. Skin pharmacology and physiology. 2010 Jun 3;23(6):290-7.
[55] Agero AL, Verallo-Rowell VM. A randomized double-blind controlled trial comparing extra virgin coconut oil with mineral oil as a moisturizer for mild to moderate xerosis. DERM. 2004 Sep 1;15(3):109-16.
[56] Badiu D, Rajendram R. Effect of olive oil on the skin. Olives and olive oil in health and disease prevention. 2021 Jan 1:401-13.
[57] Baumann L, Weisberg E. Olive oil in botanical cosmeceuticals. InOlives and olive oil in health and disease prevention 2010 Jan 1 (pp. 1117-1124). Academic Press.
[58] Taheri M, Amiri-Farahani L. Anti‐Inflammatory and Restorative Effects of Olives in Topical Application. Dermatology Research and Practice. 2021;2021(1):9927976.
[59] Burlando B, Cornara L. Honey in dermatology and skin care: a review. Journal of cosmetic dermatology. 2013 Dec;12(4):306-13.
[60] Abdulreda GR, Waheed ZA, Sarhan NH, Abbas NN. Antibacterial activity of honey on acne vulgaris caused by staphylococcus epidermidis. InAIP Conference Proceedings 2023 Dec 22 (Vol. 2977, No. 1). AIP Publishing.
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[62] Baswan SM, Klosner AE, Glynn K, Rajgopal A, Malik K, Yim S, Stern N. Therapeutic potential of cannabidiol (CBD) for skin health and disorders. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology. 2020 Dec 8:927-42.
[63] Sangiovanni E, Fumagalli M, Pacchetti B, Piazza S, Magnavacca A, Khalilpour S, Melzi G, Martinelli G, Dell'Agli M. Cannabis sativa L. extract and cannabidiol inhibit in vitro mediators of skin inflammation and wound injury. Phytotherapy Research. 2019 Aug;33(8):2083-93.
[64] Sandberg M, Lundeberg T, Lindberg LG, Gerdle B. Effects of acupuncture on skin and muscle blood flow in healthy subjects. European journal of applied physiology. 2003 Sep;90:114-9.
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[67] Ha HC. Effect of Aromatherapy on Skin Xerosis and Pruritus in Patients Undergoing Maintenance Hemodialysis. Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing. 1999 Dec 1;29(6):1284-93.
[68] Karadağ S, Akça NK, Çürük GN, Kaplan A. The effect of aromatherapy on elderly persons with dry skin: a randomized controlled trial. Holistic Nursing Practice. 2021 Jan 1;35(1):34-9.
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[71] Anna M, Magdalena SK. Evaluation of the influence of whole-body cryotherapy on selected skin parameters in healthy individuals: Pilot study. Cryobiology. 2021 Jun 1;100:77-80.
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[75] Hamp A, Anderson J, Laughter MR, Anderson JB, Presley CL, Rundle CW, Dellavalle RP. Gua‐sha, Jade Roller, and Facial Massage: Are there benefits within dermatology?. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2023 Feb 1;22(2).
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[77] de Castro ML. A New Insight of Grape Seed Extract in Skincare (Master's thesis, Universidade Catolica Portuguesa (Portugal)).
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1. Vitamin A: Vitamin A helps protect both upper and lower skin layers by acting as an antioxidant that prevents sun damage and interrupts collagen breakdown, which supports smoother, more youthful-looking skin.
2. Collagen/Elastin/Hyaluronic Acid: Collagen enhances skin hydration and elasticity, elastin boosts skin resilience, and hyaluronic acid aids in wound healing and anti-inflammatory responses. Together, they improve skin health by promoting moisture retention and smoothness.
3. Zinc: Zinc is crucial for repairing skin membranes, managing oxidative stress, and controlling inflammation. It supports immune defense, tissue regeneration, and scar formation, making it beneficial for wound healing and managing skin conditions.
4. Vitamin E: Vitamin E acts as a powerful antioxidant that protects skin cells from damage, enhances moisture retention, and supports a healthy skin barrier, promoting softer and hydrated skin.
5. Methylsulfonylmethane [MSM]: MSM improves skin health by supporting moisture retention, reducing inflammation, and strengthening the skin barrier, leading to smoother, more hydrated skin.
6. Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a key antioxidant that boosts collagen production, reduces wrinkles, and protects skin from UV-induced oxidative stress, helping maintain a youthful appearance.
7. Omega 3: Omega-3 fatty acids maintain skin hydration, reduce inflammation, and can help alleviate skin conditions like dermatitis and acne by promoting a healthy skin barrier.
8. Coenzyme Q10 [CoQ10]: CoQ10 provides powerful antioxidant protection that helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles, while defending the skin against free radical damage, promoting smoother, youthful skin.
1. Epigallocatechin Gallate [EGCG]: EGCG, a powerful antioxidant found in green tea, reduces inflammation, protects the skin from UV damage, and enhances elasticity. Its anti-aging properties help minimize fine lines and wrinkles, promoting overall skin health.
2. Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe vera, when applied topically, has anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. It soothes irritated skin and promotes skin regeneration, making it useful for maintaining healthy skin.
3. Tea Tree Essential Oil: Tea tree essential oil is effective in treating acne and reducing skin irritation due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps decrease acne lesions and improve skin clarity.
4. Lavender Essential Oil: Lavender essential oil has calming and anti-inflammatory properties that soothe irritated skin and reduce redness. It also supports wound healing with its antimicrobial effects, promoting healthier skin.
5. Peppermint Essential Oil: Peppermint oil has a cooling effect and anti-inflammatory properties that soothe itchy or irritated skin. It also improves blood flow, providing relief from certain skin conditions.
6. Frankincense Essential Oil: Frankincense essential oil helps reduce the appearance of scars and blemishes with its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. It promotes cell regeneration and improves skin tone.
7. Geranium Essential Oil: Geranium essential oil is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, making it effective for treating acne and balancing oily skin. It also enhances skin elasticity and improves texture.
8. Carrot Seed Essential Oil: Carrot seed essential oil is rich in antioxidants that rejuvenate and hydrate the skin. It supports skin healing and helps improve overall complexion, promoting a more youthful appearance.
9. Grape Seed Extract: Grape Seed Extract the antioxidant-rich compounds in grape seed extract protect skin cells from UV-induced damage and boost collagen synthesis. These effects aid in wrinkle prevention and help maintain skin elasticity.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar helps balance the skin’s pH, reduce acne, and support skin cell turnover. Its antibacterial properties can improve overall skin clarity, though its effects are largely anecdotal.
2. Coconut Oil: Coconut oil provides antimicrobial benefits and serves as an excellent skin moisturizer, promoting hydration and reducing dryness by supporting the skin's natural barrier.
3. Olive Oil: Olive oil, rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, nourishes and hydrates the skin, offering protection against oxidative stress. Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe irritated skin and support a healthy complexion.
4. Honey: Honey is a natural humectant that helps retain moisture in the skin, improving hydration. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it beneficial for acne-prone skin and aid in wound healing.
5. CBD Oil: CBD oil, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, helps reduce redness and irritation in the skin. It can also regulate oil production, making it effective for acne management and promoting overall skin health.
1. Acupuncture: Acupuncture improves skin health by enhancing blood circulation and promoting collagen production. Points such as LI4 (Hegu) on the hand, SP6 (Sanyinjiao) above the inner ankle, and ST36 (Zusanli) just below the knee are commonly used to support skin elasticity, reduce inflammation, and improve overall complexion.
2. Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy, particularly with essential oils like lavender and tea tree, offers anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. These properties can soothe irritated skin and improve the appearance of conditions like acne and eczema, promoting overall skin clarity.
3. Ayurveda: Ayurveda promotes skin health through holistic approaches like herbal treatments, dietary changes, and lifestyle practices. Herbs such as turmeric and neem possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, contributing to the reduction of skin irritation and enhancing overall skin wellness.
4. Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy uses cold exposure to reduce inflammation and tighten pores, promoting better skin tone and appearance. It may also improve blood flow, leading to healthier-looking skin.
5. Hydrotherapy: Hydrotherapy improves blood circulation, relaxes muscles, and enhances skin elasticity. Water-based treatments may also reduce inflammation and promote hydration, benefiting conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
6. Massage Therapy: Massage therapy boosts blood flow and lymphatic drainage, which can improve skin elasticity and tone. Regular massage may also help alleviate stress, indirectly benefiting skin health by promoting relaxation.
Supplements
Plant Extracts
Natural Compounds
Alternative Treatments
Symptoms & Signs
Causes
Not Applicable
Books That You May Want To Read
How Nutrients Function
Amino Acids: Amino acids serve as the building blocks of proteins, crucial for muscle growth and repair. Additionally, they play key roles in maintaining proper pH levels, storing nitrogen, synthesizing hormones, and facilitating enzymatic reactions.
Enzymes and Coenzymes: Enzymes catalyze biochemical reactions, while coenzymes assist in these processes by binding temporarily to enzymes. Together, they regulate digestion, energy production, immune responses, and various metabolic pathways.
Fatty Acids: Fatty acids serve as energy sources, structural components of cell membranes, and precursors to signaling molecules. Essential fatty acids, like omega-3 and omega-6, play critical roles in brain function, cardiovascular health, and inflammation regulation.
Herbal Extracts: Herbal extracts contain bioactive compounds with various medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. They have been used traditionally to support digestion, immunity, and overall health.
Minerals: Minerals are essential for various physiological functions, including bone health, nerve transmission, and enzyme activity. They support overall health by ensuring proper cellular function and metabolic processes.
Other Nutrients: Other nutrients encompass a wide array of essential compounds crucial for various physiological functions. This category includes neurotransmitters and their precursors, which facilitate nerve signaling and are vital for central nervous system function. Additionally, naturally occurring structural components and biological detergents, such as phospholipids and bile salts, play critical roles in tissue repair, fat digestion, and overall bodily function. Phospholipids contribute to cell membrane integrity and fat emulsification, while bile salts are key to digesting and absorbing dietary fats. Hormones and their precursors regulate numerous physiological processes, including metabolism, growth, and reproduction. Furthermore, naturally occurring chemicals and metals play pivotal roles in enzymatic reactions, immune function, and overall health maintenance.
Vitamins: Vitamins are essential micronutrients that play diverse roles in supporting cellular processes, immune function, and overall health. They must be obtained through diet or supplementation to ensure proper bodily function.
Nutrients Explained In Nutritional Guide
Podcast Episodes To Listen To
Educational Videos To Learn From
Functional Lab Tests That You Might Consider
References
Things To Do
The diet that supports skin health includes:
a whole-foods-based diet that contains fresh vegetables, fruits, meat, fish, whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats.
omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids. Make sure to maintain a healthy omega-3-to-omega-6 ratio [1:2]. Exceeding these numbers can promote inflammation.
foods that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
foods rich in vitamin E. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects the cells, an anti-inflammatory, and a moisturizing agent.
foods rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects the cells and aids in the synthesis of collagen.
foods rich in vitamin A can help reduce acne and hyperpigmentation and have anti-aging effects.
foods rich in vitamin D. Vitamin D stimulates collagen production, protects the cells from damage, and has anti-aging effects.
foods high in zinc. Zinc supports the action of vitamin A, has anti-oxidant effects, supports wound healing, and helps manage acne.
foods containing selenium. Selenium is a mineral that protects from oxidative stress, inflammation, and hyperpigmentation.
moderate amounts of coffee. Coffee contains anti-oxidant compounds.
suffcient hydration. Drinking quality water, green tea, and herbal tea supports the skin and helps maintain adequate moisture levels.
Furthermore, do the following:
get quality sleep. Our skin regenerates while we sleep.
exercise regularily. It boosts skin health and slows down aging.
Practice stress reduction with meditation, mindfulness, and yoga. Stress contributes to inflammation and breakouts.
Use natural, preferably organic, skin care and body care products.
Use safe and toxin-free makeup products.
Always clean your skin and remove all the makeup before going to bed.
Moisturize your skin after showering or bathing.
Get daily fresh air and sun exposure for a vitamin D boost. In the summer, make use of natural sunscreens. However, some sunscreens tend to clog the pores. Wear hats to cover your face, and stay in the shadows as much as you can. Be mindful and intentional about when and how long you expose yourself to the sun.
Things To Avoid
For better skin health, avoid the following:
processed, junk, and fast foods. They contain inflammatory ingredients, contribute to breakouts, and speed up aging.
sugar, sugary beverages, candy, and desserts. Sugar promotes systemic inflammation and feeds pathogenic strains of bacteria and fungi. These make the condition of our whole body, including the skin, worse.
refined carbohydrates. Refined flours and grains elevate blood glucose levels and increase insulin secretion. In turn, high insulin levels affect sebum secretion.
trans fats, hydrogenated oils, and seed oils. They promote inflammation and skin aging.
in acne, avoid chocolate.
high-glycemic foods that contribute to excess insulin activity.
AGEs [advanced glycation end products] are found in grilled, deep-fried, and processed foods. They accumulate in the skin and disrupt its proper functioning throughout all its layers.
excess alcohol. Alcohol is dehydrating for the skin.
foods you are intolerant of or allergic to. They can also affect your skin and contribute to breakouts and flare-ups of acne.
Furthermore, avoid the following:
smoking. It affects collagen production and contributes to poor circulation and "greying" of the skin.
binge drinking and substance abuse. They cause inflammation and damage your overall health, including the skin.
insufficient sleep, and chronic stress. Both impair the regenerative processes in the body and lead to increased inflammation and mental strain.
toxic ingredients in skin and body care products.
products that are not suitable for your skin type.
products that cause your skin to react with redness, swelling, or itching.
sedentary lifestyle.
Certain medications can also affect the way your skin looks and feels. These are diuretics, blood-thinners, antibiotics, etc.
mechanical damage to the skin, such as excessive rubbing, using strong exfoliators, acidic substances, etc.
Do not pick at your acne lesions.