Where's the Evidence with Oral Supplements?
At The M-ethod Aesthetics, we prioritize evidence-based skincare solutions. With the growing popularity of oral supplements promising enhanced skin health, it's time to examine the scientific support behind these claims.
Understanding Oral Supplements
Oral supplements encompass vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients consumed to boost overall health. In skincare, products like collagen peptides and antioxidants are marketed to improve skin appearance and combat aging.
The Scientific Perspective
While certain supplements offer health benefits, the evidence supporting their efficacy for skin enhancement varies:
Collagen Supplements: Increasing bodies of studies suggest that oral collagen can improve skin elasticity and hydration. It’s important to note that the body's digestive process breaks down collagen into amino acids, which are then distributed throughout the body, not exclusively to the skin, meaning it can help with strengthening joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments and other connective tissues.
Antioxidant Supplements: Vitamins C and E are known antioxidants that help protect the skin from oxidative stress. An open-label study* reported a positive effect of oral supplementation rich in primary and secondary antioxidants on skin radiance. Skin color, facial luminosity, and firmness have been improved and imperfections reduced.
Considerations for Supplement Use
Before incorporating oral supplements into your skincare regimen, consider the following:
Consult a Healthcare Professional: It's crucial to discuss with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
Focus on a Balanced Diet: Obtaining nutrients from a varied and balanced diet is often more beneficial than relying on supplements. Whole foods provide a complex nutritional profile that supplements may not fully replicate.
Regulatory Oversight: Dietary supplements are not as strictly regulated as pharmaceuticals, leading to potential variations in product quality and efficacy. Ensure you choose supplements from reputable sources.
Our Approach at The M-ethod Aesthetics
We emphasize personalized skincare routines tailored to individual needs. While certain supplements may complement your regimen, we advocate a multi-faceted approach for:
Evidence-Based Topical Treatments: Products with clinically proven ingredients that address specific skin concerns.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintaining a balanced diet, proper hydration, and sun protection to support skin health naturally.
Oral supplements can play a role in overall health, it’s important to source your supplements from respectable brands that ensure high standards of health and safety are upheld. At The M-ethod Aesthetics, we have a curated range of oral supplements grounded in science and tailored to your unique needs.
*Dumoulin M, Gaudout D, Lemaire B. Clinical effects of an oral supplement rich in antioxidants on skin radiance in women. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2016 Oct 18;9:315-324. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S118920. PMID: 27799805; PMCID: PMC5076548.