The body turns proteins from food into amino acids and reuses them to make other proteins, including collagen and keratin, which make up the structure of the skin. Some amino acids are antioxidants that help protect skin cells from UV rays and free radicals produced when the body breaks down certain foods or is exposed to cigarette smoke.
Vitamin A helps prevent sun damage by interrupting the breakdown of collagen. This vitamin can protect the skin from sunburn (although not as effectively as using sunscreen). They help the oil glands around hair follicles work and scratches heal quickly. If the body lacks vitamin A, the skin is susceptible to dryness, itching or roughness.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C plays an important role in the production of pro-collagen, the precursor to creating collagen. This is also a strong antioxidant, protecting the body from free radicals, reducing the risk of skin cancer. Low levels of vitamin C can cause bruising and bleeding gums, and ulcers heal more slowly.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E protects the skin from damage caused by UV rays, reduces inflammation and promotes skin cell regeneration, reduces wrinkles, sagging skin, and protects vision. They improve overall health by supporting the immune system, enhancing skin function, and reducing the risk of many chronic diseases associated with aging.
Zinc
Zinc helps the skin heal after injury, keeps cell walls stable, and protects the skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. They also act as antioxidants. Zinc deficiency makes the skin look like eczema, but the rash and itching do not reduce even when applying moisturizers or steroid creams.
Selenium
Selenium is a mineral that helps some antioxidants protect the skin from UV rays. Selenium deficiency is associated with a higher risk of skin cancer.