In recent years, the pursuit of 'glass skin' has taken the beauty world by storm. A Korean beauty ideal, glass skin is characterised by a luminous, poreless, and translucent appearance, akin to a piece of clear glass. One practice that skincare enthusiasts have discovered is the transformative effects of specific vitamins in their quest for radiant skin.
As per a study published in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, vitamins C, E and B3 have antiageing and photoprotective effects, meaning they protect the skin from UV damage. These three vitamins are also powerful antioxidants that protect the from oxidative stress and maintain the collagen network in the skin.
Nourishing The Skin With Vitamin C
A potent antioxidant, Vitamin C helps protect the skin from UV radiation, pollution, and environmental stressors. Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Furthermore, it inhibits the production of melanin and helps fade dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone. Vitamin C also has hydrating properties and can help the skin retain moisture, leading to a plump and dewy complexion. Lastly, Vitamin C also has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin.
Also Read: Natural Skin Care Tips For Flawless Skin: How To Make Vitamin C Serum At Home?
Vitamin C is abundantly found in the human skin. However, humans can not naturally synthesise vitamin C and hence have to rely on external sources, mainly a healthy diet and topical application.
Sources of Vitamin C
Here’s a list of food sources that have abundant amounts of Vitamin C to help you achieve the perfect glass skin:
- Citrus Fruits: Oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits.
- Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries.
- Fruits: Kiwi, Papaya, and Guava
- Leafy Greens: Kale, spinach, and Swiss chard.
- Green Vegetables: Bell Peppers and Broccoli
Hydrating The Skin With Vitamin E
Vitamin E acts as a powerful antioxidant, helping against UV rays, pollution, and other environmental factors, potentially reducing signs of premature ageing. It is also an excellent moisturiser that helps lock in moisture, preventing dryness and maintaining skin suppleness.
Vitamin E can promote wound healing by reducing inflammation and supporting the formation of new skin cells. A common component of products used to treat scars and stretch marks, Vitamin E also improves skin texture, soothes irritated skin, and reduces redness.
Sources of Vitamin E
Here are some Vitamin E rich food sources to incorporate into your routine:
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, sunflower seeds, hazelnuts, and peanuts.
- Vegetable Oils: Olive oil, sunflower oil, and wheat germ.
- Green Leafy Vegetables: Spinach, Swiss chard, and kale.
- Avocado: This creamy fruit is a good source of vitamin E.
- Fish: Salmon and trout.
Achieve A Glowing Look With Vitamin B3
Vitamin B3 offers several benefits for the skin, namely reducing dryness, evens out the complexion, minimising the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, regulating oil production, and improving skin texture. Niacin can be the perfect tool in your arsenal towards achieving glass skin as it also aids skin repair after sun damage, acne, environmental stress, and irritation.
Also Read: Vitamin B3 cuts skin cancer risk, finds study
Sources of Vitamin B
Vitamin B3, or niacin, can be obtained from various food sources. Here are some common sources of vitamin B3:
- Meat: Poultry, such as chicken, turkey, and lean cuts of beef and pork.
- Fish: Tuna, salmon, and other fish.
- Legumes: Peanuts and lentils.
- Dairy Products: Milk, yoghurt and cheese.
- Whole Grains: Whole wheat, brown rice, and oats.
- Nuts and Seeds: Sunflower seeds and almonds.
- Vegetables: Mushrooms and avocados.
Combining The Dynamic Trio To Achieve Glass Skin
Achieving Korean ‘glass skin’ involves a thorough skincare routine and a focus on skin health. Here's how you can incorporate the power of vitamins C, E, and B3 into your routine for glowing, clear skin:
- Cleansing: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, dirt, and impurities. Look for one with a balanced pH to maintain your skin's natural barrier.
- Exfoliation: Use a mild face scrub (preferably one containing glycolic acid or lactic acid) a few times a week to remove dead skin cells, revealing smoother skin.
- Serum: Apply a vitamin C serum in the morning after cleansing. Ensure the serum is stored properly, as vitamin C can degrade when exposed to light and air.
- Hydration: Use a hydrating moisturiser with vitamin B3 and apply a thin layer to make sure your pores are not clogged.
- Vitamin E: Opt for a light sunscreen containing vitamin E during the day, even if you are indoors.
The pursuit of ‘glass skin’ can be fulfilled only if you aid your skin health as much from the inside as from the outside. To repair your skin from within, the following practices can work wonders for you:
- Healthy Diet: Consume a healthy, well-balanced diet including the food sources mentioned above. There are a lot of food sources for you to play around with. Let your imagination run wild and harness the power of these three versatile ingredients in your daily life.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water every day to maintain your skin's suppleness and radiance.
- Reduce Stress: Stress is one of the biggest enemies of healthy skin. Practice mental stress reduction techniques to prevent breakouts and skin dullness.
- Consult a Nutritionist: A Nutritionist can help you build a diet plan that is specifically catered to your body’s requirements. A nutritionist can also prescribe supplements to boost your nutrient intake.
Remember that achieving glass skin is a journey, and results may vary from person to person. While vitamins C, E, and B3 can contribute significantly to your skincare routine, consistency and patience are key. By nurturing your skin with the right vitamins and maintaining a holistic approach to skincare and well-being, you can embark on the path to radiant, luminous, and enviable glass skin.
