Supple(ment) skin

It’s been instilled in us since we were kids: beauty is not what’s on the outside, but what is within. And this has never been truer. The new beauty essentials for perfect skin require no needles or surgeons, won’t break the budget and will keep you looking younger longer.  Here, the top five supplements you should be introducing to your diet… by LYNETTE BOTHA for ELLE MAGAZINE

What: Evening Primrose Oil

Why it’s good for your skin: it provides skin with a rich source of gamma linolenic acid (GLA) that moisturises the skin and protects it from environmental oxidisation. Essential fatty acids found in evening primrose oil (Omega-6) dilute sebum that is produced by the skin, reducing the chances of acne and skin irritations. It is also great for treating eczema and rosacea (redness of the face).

Also good for: easing depression and premenstrual pains and improving growth and strength of nails and hair.

To try: Solgar Evening Primrose Oil 1300mg, R120 for 30 softgel capsules

What: Vitamin C

Why it’s good for your skin: it is essential for the production of collagen and is a top ingredient in anti-ageing creams. Because it’s an antioxidant it reduces skin damage caused by free radicals, reduces wrinkles and improves skin texture on the whole.

Also good for: boosting your immune system.

To try: Vital Health Foods' MaxiC 1000, R59.85 for 30 capsules

What: Hyaluronic Acid (HA)

Why it’s good for your skin: assists in the production of collagen and accounts for the majority of hydration in the skin. From the age of about 20 the production of HA slowly decreases in our bodies, leading to moisture loss, less elasticity and wrinkles.

Also good for: improving eye sight and lubricating joints.

To try: Forever Active HA, R276.32 for 60 softgel capsules

What: CoEnzyme Q10

Why it’s good for your skin: it’s essential for the transport of fatty acids to skin cells and critical in maintaining vitamin E levels, a key antioxidant in the anti-ageing process.

Also good for: fat-burning and increasing energy levels

To try: Biogen CoEnzyme Q10, R for 60 capsules

What: Flaxseed oil

Why it’s good for your skin: it’s high in Omega-3 fatty acids, essential for strengthening the skins barrier, keeping it moisturised and supple and eradicating irritation.

Also good for: reducing inflammation and may help lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer and arthritis.

To try: Life’s Flaxseed Oil Omega 3, R96 for 60 capsules

(This is an edited version of an article that originally appears in the August issue of Elle Magazine. The current edition is on sale now.)