Women everywhere are learning the science behind ingestible beauty and how it works to promote a radiant complexion from the inside out. Science has recently uncovered that your gut microbiome is linked to your skin via the gut-skin axis, which is why our skin and outward appearance can be highly influenced by what we eat and put in our bodies.

So, many high-end supplement companies are beginning to offer natural solutions that seek to enhance your skin via the microbiome. However, it’s essential to find the right product with the best combination of ingredients without needing to buy several expensive products to achieve the same (or worse) effect. Here’s what to look for in a skin supplement that actually delivers results:

Key Ingredients to Look for in a Skin Supplement

Phytoceramides

Phytoceramides make up over 50% of our skin's composition—essentially the "building blocks" that hold skin cells together. They work to protect the skin while helping lock in moisture and elasticity.

Vitamin A

This potent antioxidant helps reduce the skin’s oil production, allowing dead skin cells to fall away without clogging pores or causing breakouts.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a highly effective antioxidant that aids in collagen production, skin hydration, and may help recover from environmental damage.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D helps to address discoloration, dark spots, and under-eye circles. This essential nutrient also works to help calm red, irritated, or puffy skin.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E has been shown to help make the skin more durable, improve immune function, and can help to minimize the effects of too much sun exposure.

Not all supplements are created equally. Many brands add cheap fillers, unnecessary additives and ineffective ingredients that not only dilute their potency but could potentially put your health at risk. So, it's imperative to be vigilant when choosing the right skin supplement.

What Ingredients To Avoid 

  • Wheat-Based Phytoceramides

    While wheat-based phytoceramides are the most common option on the market today, a recent study has shown that rice-based phytoceramides were more effective than wheat-based phytoceramides in promoting youthful, glowing skin.*

  • Fillers or Binders

    Some supplements use cheap fillers to help bind ingredients together and lubricate the supplement. These binders add no nutritional value and can become toxic to your system.

  • Generic Ingredients

    Many companies opt for generic ingredients that aren't backed by data, meaning the supplement is "watered down" and less effective. Look for patented ingredients that are clinically proven to provide helpful results.

Your Definitive Checklist

Now that you know what ingredients to look for and what to avoid, it’s also important to keep these additional tips in mind when shopping for a skin supplement.

Clinically-Recommended Dosages 

Some brands will use quality ingredients, but skimp out on dosages in order to save money. So even if you’re getting the right ingredients, if they’re not in their recommended dosages, you won’t experience the full benefits. 

Money-Back Guarantee  

It’s always a good idea to invest in a supplement that offers a 100% money-back guarantee that shows the company's faith in its product. Look for brands that offer at least a 90-day money-back guarantee.

Top 5 Skin Supplements of 2021

We've compiled a list of what we've found to be the top five products in this category on the market today.