Besides being the largest organ in the body, the skin covers the entire exterior surface of the body. It is comprised of three layers: the epidermis, the dermis, and the hypodermis. Its structure is a complex network that serves as the body's first line of defense against pathogens, UV light, chemicals, and mechanical injuries. Additionally, it regulates temperature and the flow of water throughout the body.
Essential nutrients for the Skin, Hair and Nails.
The skin needs a proper balance of nutrients to do its main job of protecting the rest of the body from external pathogens that could be of harm it. So, to help the skin to look good, work as it should, and feel good, it becomes important that the skin should be fed with nutrients from the inside. The importance of internal nutrients to the wellbeing of the skin cannot be over emphasised.
Protein
Some amino acids are antioxidants that protect skin cells against UV rays and from "free radicals" from substances in the environment
Healthy Fats
Some fats are actually health while others are unhealthy. The healthy ones help our skin to glow. When your diet contains very little fat, it could make your skin to be dry and wrinkled. Monosaturated and polysaturated fats from plants sources like nuts, seeds and avocados and from sources such as fish help the skin to stay moist, flexible and firm. These are better than saturated fatty acids from animal sources.
Substances like omega 3 fatty acids, is needed to build cell walls, but unfortunately, the body does not manufacture it, hence the need for supplementation.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is needed by the skin. it's an antioxidant, it may give the skin some protection and may prevent sun damage by interrupting the process that breaks down collagen. Vitamin A helps the oil glands around your hair follicles work. Low amounts of vitamin A might cause dry, itchy, and bumpy skin.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C plays an integral role in the synthesis of collagen - the substance that keeps skin supple and firm. Collagen is key to defending against stretch marks and wrinkles, thus reduces visible signs of aging. forms a part of the complex group of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants that help defend against damaging free radicals generated by the sun, pollution, smoking and other environmental factors. Although Vitamin C alone can provide photoprotection, it works best in conjunction with Vitamin E, which potentiates the action of Vitamin C four-fold.
Vitamin E
This antioxidant and anti-inflammatory can also absorb the energy from UV light, which damages skin and leads to wrinkles, sagging, and skin cancer. It works with vitamin C to strengthen cell walls.
Zinc
It's needed to keep cell walls stable and for cells to divide and specialize as they grow. Zinc plays an important role in hair tissue growth and repair. It also helps keep the oil glands around the follicles working properly.
Hair loss and eczema look on the skin can be a symptom of zinc deficiency. Clinical studies have shown that supplementation with zinc reduces hair loss
Selenium
Selenium is a mineral that helps certain antioxidants protect your skin from UV rays. Selenium contributes to the maintenance of normal nails. It also helps to keep nails flexible & promotes healthy nail growth
Biotin & Selenium which contributes to normal hair. Clinical studies have shown that taking biotin can strengthen weak, brittle nails
Copper which contributes to the maintenance of normal connective tissue. It contributes to normal hair pigmentation.
B complex vitamins along with silicon and zinc help to reduce nail fragility, excessive dryness, and ridges
Fruits and vegetables are a great source for these vitamins and minerals, but can our food provide all the nutrients essential for the health of your skin, hair, and nail?
Perfectil has been formulated by an expert team to deliver "beauty from within" and is designed to complement your daily skin and hair care routine with a range of over 20 micronutrients.
Perfectil is the UK's No.1 skin, hair, and nails formula. The advanced range is based on our 45 years of scientific research into the benefits of targeted optimal nutrition. Our skin, hair and nails all require specific vitamins and nutrients. Perfectil works by delivering nourishment through the bloodstream, so works 'from within'.
Each tablet contains micronutrients including:
Riboflavin (vit. B2), Niacin (vit. B3) and biotin which contribute to the maintenance of normal skin
Selenium and zinc which contribute to the maintenance of normal hair and nails
This comprehensive formula replaces other Perfectil multivitamins. There is no need to take an additional multivitamin. Perfectil may be used for as long as required.
Perfectil contains No artificial colours, No preservatives, No lactose, yeast or gelatin, Gluten free, Vegetarian friendly.
References
Telang, S.L “Vitamin C in dermatology”
Indian Dermatol Online J. 2013 Apr-Jun; 4(2): 143–146. doi: 10.4103/2229-5178.110593
Karashima et al. “Oral zinc therapy for zinc deficiency-related telogen effluvium”.
Dermatol Ther. 2012 Mar-Apr;25(2):210-3