The journey to radiant skin involves more than just topical treatments, it's a holistic approach that starts from within. Our skin, the body's largest organ, not only absorbs everything we apply to it but also mirrors what's happening internally. Issues like poor liver detoxification, compromised gut health, and inflammation manifest on our skin.

In this guide, we'll unveil the secrets to unlocking your skin's finest shine, delving into the best supplements for a luminous glow, nourishing foods that promote radiance from the inside out, and essential products to address concerns like pigmentation, cellulite, signs of ageing, and various skin conditions.

As the sun-kissed days of summer draw near, follow this comprehensive roadmap for luminous, healthy skin.

When diving into the world of nutrients that elevate your skin's radiance, we find a lot of research spotlighting specific vitamins, minerals, herbs, and plant extracts renowned for promoting optimal health, especially for the skin. Among these, vitamin C, zinc, hyaluronic acid, astaxanthin, pycnogenol, and MSM stand out.

Let's explore the unique benefits of each, and the recommended supplements to enhance their benefits.

Vitamin C:

Vitamin C is a versatile nutrient for skin health, acting as both a powerful antioxidant and a crucial element in collagen synthesis. Its potent antioxidant properties combat free radicals, those culprits responsible for skin cell damage and stress leading to ageing and various skin conditions. Vitamin C’s pivotal role in collagen synthesis is crucial for maintaining the skin's structure, firmness, and overall appearance.

Traditionally used for skin healing after trauma or surgery, vitamin C contributes to new cell production and scar tissue formation. Beyond this, it brightens the skin by reducing dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven tones. It also helps retain skin moisture and supports a healthier skin barrier, explaining its regular presence in serums and skincare products.

Zinc:

Zinc is well known for its benefits for skin, particularly for conditions like eczema, where its soothing effect on inflammatory conditions has been well studied. Similar to vitamin C, zinc offers antioxidant protection against free radicals and plays a crucial role in cell division and tissue repair, enhancing the efficiency of wound healing. Its involvement in collagen synthesis further supports skin elasticity and structure.

For those battling acne, zinc becomes a valuable ally by regulating sebum production, controlling excess oil, and potentially reducing inflammation. Its impact extends beyond the skin's surface, influencing the immune system and gut lining. The interplay between zinc and these systems is crucial, as many skin conditions are linked to imbalanced microflora or issues like leaky gut.

Zinc also finds a place in sunscreens, often in the form of zinc oxide, protecting against both UVA and UVB rays. This not only helps prevent sunburn but also guards against long-term sun damage. Explore our range of natural sunscreens, including options like Salt & Stone, featuring the protective benefits of zinc oxide.

Hyaluronic Acid:

Nature's hydration powerhouse, hyaluronic acid, naturally present in the body, is known for its exceptional water-retention ability. As a glycosaminoglycan, a vital component of the extracellular matrix providing structural support to cells, hyaluronic acid plays an important role in attracting and holding water. This not only keeps the skin impeccably hydrated but also preserves its plumpness, firmness, and diminishes the appearance of fine lines. Its water-retaining properties ensure optimal moisture, reducing the risk of dry, flaky skin.

Beyond its hydrating benefits, hyaluronic acid contributes to collagen synthesis, boasting potent anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that aid in faster healing of injuries and surgeries. Given its natural occurrence in the body, it suits all skin types when applied topically.

Additionally, hyaluronic acid enhances the penetration of other skincare ingredients, earning a spot in many serums and moisturisers, particularly those aiming to boost hydration and increase skin plumpness.

MSM:

Unveiling the wonders of Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), an organic sulphur compound present in plants, animals, and humans. Respected for its potential contributions to skin health, the sulphur within MSM is a crucial element in the body's structural proteins—collagen, keratin, and elastin. As a source of sulphur, MSM supports collagen synthesis, preserving tissue integrity and strength, while also promoting the health of hair and nails through its role in keratin formation.

Beyond its structural support, MSM offers remarkable anti-inflammatory properties, rendering it an excellent choice for various skin conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis, as well as inflammatory joint issues. MSM also plays a role in glutathione production, the master antioxidant, renowned for presenting a youthful and healthy complexion, along with an overall sense of health.

Further advantages associated with MSM include aiding in recovery by supporting the formation of new skin tissue, contributing to hydration and moisture retention, and assisting in the reduction of hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.

Astaxanthin:

Nature's radiant secret, astaxanthin, a naturally occurring carotenoid pigment in the xanthophyll family, graces certain algae, microorganisms, and the tissues of marine animals, giving the vibrant red-orange colour to salmon, shrimp, and other seafood.

Known for its potent antioxidant benefits, astaxanthin outshines even some of our most beloved antioxidants. Shown to reduce a wide range of free radicals and shield against oxidative stress, it also stands as a defender against UV-induced oxidative damage.
With photo-protective properties, astaxanthin offers supplemental sun protection (though not a sunscreen replacement) and helps mitigate factors contributing to premature ageing and skin damage.

Beyond its antioxidant might, astaxanthin boasts anti-inflammatory properties, supports moisture retention, contributes to collagen synthesis, and fortifies the skin's resilience and elasticity. Its many benefits contribute holistically to overall skin health, addressing environmental damage, hydration, and the quest for a vibrant and healthy complexion.

Pycnogenol:

Also known as pine bark, pycnogenol may not be a household name, but it's one of the most extensively studied antioxidants, with over 400 research papers showcasing its remarkable benefits—an entire blog could be dedicated to this alone! However, on the topic of skin health, let's see why pycnogenol is so fabulous.

Firstly, Pycnogenol boasts the unique ability to recycle spent vitamin C, effectively restoring its activity. This, in turn, supports the continuous production of collagen and elastin, the backbone of skin structure and strength, providing that supple, youthful, and healthy appearance.

Studies highlight the benefits of 100mg of pycnogenol in significantly improving skin elasticity, maintaining skin hydration, and boosting the production of hyaluronic acid—an excellent option for combating signs of ageing. Pycnogenol takes center stage in reducing water loss, preventing skin darkening, and providing great support throughout various seasons. Pycnogenol is your go-to for a year-round glow, offering consistent and holistic benefits to the skin.

As we prioritise what goes into our bodies through nutrition and supplements, it's equally vital to consider what we apply onto our skin. Modern research sheds light on the concerning impact of toxins and chemicals found in cosmetics and cleaning products. These substances have been found to disrupt hormonal balance by mimicking hormones, contributing to cases of toxicity overload. This, in turn, places strain on essential organs like the liver, lymphatic system, kidneys, and digestive system.

So, let's explore skincare products that not only enhance your natural glow but also respect and preserve the delicate balance of your hormones and bodily systems.

Caudalie Contouring Concentrate:

This is such a wonderful product by Caudalie, those who use it, can’t live without it. We thought that in the spirit of summer, this would be the perfect time to shine a spotlight on products that enhance skin tone, stimulate circulation, and promote skin firmness.

Enriched with collagen boosting and skin soothing oils such as grape seed oil, lemon peel oil, rosemary leaf oil, and sunflower seed oil, this oil is invigorating and energising, the perfect summer blend.

For optimal results, apply this concentrate after a shower while the skin is slightly damp, promoting quick absorption. Massage it from the ankles up to the hips, working in an upward circular motion.

This product not only tones and revitalises the skin but has also demonstrated visible reductions in the appearance of cellulite and fatty deposits, making it a must-have for a radiant summer glow.

Antipodes Glow Ritual Vitamin C Serum with Plant Hyaluronic Acid:

The very title of this product is enough to show its brilliance. This serum is a powerhouse designed to shield against environmental pollutants, thanks to the antioxidant benefits of grape and kiwi. It goes a step further by promoting collagen production, courtesy of the vitamin C-rich Kakadu plum, and achieving a plump, firm complexion with the dynamic duo of Bakuchiol and plant-based hyaluronic acid.

This illuminating serum caters to all skin types, delivering a radiant and brightened complexion.

Eco by Sonya Winter Skin:

Offering a radiant touch to our lineup is the Eco by Sonya Winter Skin, a gorgeous natural tanning product. As we are in the UK, catching a natural tan is often a rare occurrence, so this product is the go-to for those seeking a sun-kissed glow. If you're fortunate enough to be jetting off for some sunshine, don't forget your sunscreen essentials like Salt & Stone or Organic Pharmacy Cellular Protection Sunscreen.

Now, back to Winter Skin—this fabulous product offers a gradual tan, allowing for a light layer for a subtle shimmer or building up for a deeper, sun-kissed radiance. A beloved favourite, not just Winter Skin, but the entire range from Eco by Sonya has won our hearts. Explore the full range here, including another gem, the Face Tanning Water. A must-have for those who prefer to skip daily foundation application! If this is you, check it out and say goodbye to the need for foundation all year round!

Organic Pharmacy Stabilised Vitamin C Serum:

A potent elixir designed to be used every morning and night for optimal results. This powerhouse serum has proven its ability to reduce pigmentation, illuminate the skin, and minimise the appearance of fine lines, leaving your complexion gloriously smooth, even, and bright.

Suitable for all skin types, this serum is a great addition to your skincare regimen, especially in the lead-up to summer when sun exposure increases. The potent antioxidant action of vitamin C, complemented by sunscreen use, helps mitigate sun damage and lowers the risk of pigmentation or discolouration, leaving you with a radiant and resilient complexion.

While supplements offer a quick boost, our first line of defence for radiant skin is always through the foods we consume. We've all experienced the impact of our diet on our skin, from the benefits of skin-loving foods to the consequences of indulging in processed treats. Striking a balance is key, allowing for occasional treats in moderation while prioritising healthy choices most of the time (think the 80-20 rule).

Here are some of our favourite sun-kissed foods to nourish your way to a luminous glow.

Lemon water:
Welcome the power of lemons for a radiant complexion! Packed with vitamin C, a crucial component for optimal skin health, incorporating lemon water into your routine can work wonders. A simple squeeze of half a lemon into warm or cold water in the morning not only provides a vitamin C boost but also aids digestion and supports liver detoxification—integral steps for vibrant and healthy skin.

Essential fats:
Nourish your skin from within with essential fats, crucial for cellular nutrient absorption and maintaining skin hydration. These good fats work to keep skin cells hydrated, promoting a plump, soft, and soothing effect. Additionally, their notable anti-inflammatory properties are particularly beneficial for addressing skin conditions like eczema and acne. Essential fats contribute to improving the skin barrier and play a vital role in building and maintaining healthy skin.

Here are some sources of essential fats to incorporate into your diet:

* Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Drizzle over salads and veggies for both a delicious and healthy addition. Opt for a high quality option like our Honest Toil.
* Nuts and Seeds: Include Brazil nuts, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, and flaxseeds in your diet.
* Avocado: A versatile and nutrient-rich addition to various dishes.
* Oily Fish: Aim for three servings a week of wild-caught salmon, mackerel, anchovies, and sardines.

Flaxseeds:
Flaxseeds, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, stand out as a skin savior. Addressing inflammatory skin conditions and ensuring optimal hydration, these seeds boast lignans—an antioxidant powerhouse that provides a protective shield for your skin. Flaxseeds also contain phytoestrogens, offering a gentle oestrogenic effect that helps balance hormonal fluctuations, making them particularly useful for those battling hormonal breakouts, including those pesky pimples before menstruation.

Beyond this, flaxseeds mucilage content forms a gel-like substance when in contact with water, which aids nutrient absorption, detoxifies the body, and promotes efficient bowel movements. These small yet mighty seeds contribute to reducing the overall toxic load, making them a vital addition for radiant and healthy skin.

Simply add to porridge, salads, and smoothies, or soak whole linseeds overnight to help with digestion the next morning.

Antioxidants:
Increasing your antioxidant intake can significantly benefit your skin. Antioxidants play a pivotal role in shielding the skin from oxidative damage, including the sun (although not a substitute for sunscreen). They contribute to reducing long-term sun damage, preventing pigmentation development, promoting an even skin tone, and maintaining collagen integrity by protecting against free radicals that break down collagen fibres. This, in turn, diminishes premature ageing and the appearance of fine lines.

Incorporate these antioxidant-rich foods into your diet for skin-loving benefits:
* Green tea
* Flaxseeds
* Dark berries (the darker, the better)
* Dark leafy greens
* Nuts and seeds (Brazil nuts for selenium, pumpkin seeds for zinc, flaxseeds for lignans)
* Vitamin C-rich foods
* Avocado
* Oily fish
* Sweet potato
* Dark chocolate (at least 70%)

Vitamin C Rich Foods:
Embrace the skin-loving benefits of vitamin C by incorporating these foods into your diet. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in collagen production, wound healing, acts as a potent antioxidant, and helps combat premature ageing.

Indulge in these favourites for a vitamin C boost:
* Lemon water & Citrus fruits
* All berries
* Greens such as kale and spinach
* Peppers
* Tomatoes
* Broccoli
* Grapefruit (beneficial for the liver)
* Kiwi - (great for digestion)
* Cherries (acerola cherry being one of the richest sources)
* Papaya

For a delicious and nutritious treat, try our Super Skin Self Care Smoothie recipe. It's not just a delicious smoothie, but a daily ritual we all enjoyed for six months straight!

Fermented foods:
At Therapy Organics, our love for fermented foods is due to their remarkable health benefits. In our recent article on the immune system, we talked about how daily consumption of fermented foods lead to increased microbiome diversity and reduced gut inflammation. So, what does this mean? More diversity means enhanced nutrient absorption and utilisation, and optimal hormone production which is vital for radiant skin. The lesser inflammation is great when working with inflammatory skin conditions and improving overall health.

Embrace the goodness of fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, natural yogurts (without additives), and even fermented cheeses such as feta. The diverse array of bacteria not only adds richness to your gut but also promotes a healthier, more radiant you. So, let your taste buds explore the world of fermentation for a skin-loving boost.

Changing nutritional habits can feel daunting, especially with extensive lists of 'should' and 'should not' foods. Recognising that individual needs vary, we understand the importance of personalised nutrition. If you're grappling with skin conditions or any health concerns, our expert team at Therapy Organics is here for you.

Whether you visit our shop or reach out through email, our highly qualified nutritional therapists are ready to guide you. With their wealth of knowledge and experience, they work with diverse individuals daily, offering tailored advice for optimal skin health and overall well-being. So, please don’t hesitate to connect with us if you would like support to improve skin or any other concern.

The simplest and most impactful change we can embrace for overall health, especially our skin, is hydration. As we have discussed throughout this article, well-hydrated skin cells are crucial for a radiant, glowing, and plump complexion. Deprived of sufficient water, the skin appears dry, lacklustre, and dull. Hydration isn't just about external beauty, it’s essential for nutrient absorption and waste elimination through the liver and digestive system.

Adequate water intake ensures the body absorbs essential nutrients and efficiently expels waste. Insufficient water can lead to issues like constipation, causing the recirculation of toxins and waste. This can be particularly challenging for individuals dealing with conditions like eczema and acne, where toxins are expelled through the skin, and the digestive system's efficiency is compromised.

If you would like to read more on the importance of good-quality water, its role in the body, and how to determine your personal hydration needs, then click here to read a previous article covering this and some more.

Exploring the world of glowing skin brings our focus to nature's needles – powerful nutrients renowned for their exceptional anti-ageing benefits. Before diving into more invasive options, explore the wonders of these nature-inspired supplements and skincare products. The results speak for themselves, offering a fantastic alternative to support your skin's radiance.

Oskia:

Oskia is where beauty meets science. Their star ingredient, MSM, dubbed the 'beauty mineral,' is fundamental for cell processes and collagen production, ensuring skin that's supple, stronger, and healthier. Oskia harnesses the power of advanced natural ingredients like Swiss Apple Stem Cells, Ribose, Peptides, and more. This unique fusion works to elevate skin radiance, combat signs of ageing, and protect against environmental damage, delivering effective anti-ageing results.

Oskia remains our trusted brand for anti-ageing essentials. From the rejuvenating Renaissance 360 for daytime use to the indulgent Bedtime Beauty Boost, and a selection of serums including their Hyaluronic Acid Serum, Oskia offers something for every skincare enthusiast.

Organic Pharmacy Antioxidant Duo:

Known as the 'instant face lift' and cherished by renowned celebrities, the Organic Pharmacy Antioxidant Duo is a powerhouse infused with antioxidants, vitamins, and herbal extracts. This exceptional product, requiring a pump of both the gel and serum for activation, delivers potent and effective benefits.

Packed with ingredients like aloe vera juice, grapefruit, carrot seed oil, calendula, ginseng, lemon peel oil, and orange peel oil, this unique blend aims to boost collagen, minimise pores, diminish sun damage and pigmentation, reduce wrinkles, firm and protect, all while providing intense hydration for the ultimate radiant glow.

Caudalie Resveratrol & Premier Cru Range:

Caudalie offers two exceptional skincare ranges for a collagen boost: the Resveratrol range and the Premier Cru range. The Resveratrol line is specifically formulated to address wrinkles and redefine facial contours. It contains a vegan collagen booster, proven to be 2x more effective than retinol in natural collagen production. Enriched with a patented combination of resveratrol, hyaluronic acid, and vegan collagen booster, it delivers a powerful correction for wrinkles and firmness, thanks to its concentrated vine resveratrol.

Premier Cru, going beyond the Resveratrol benefits, incorporates visionary TET8 technology. This innovative approach comprehensively corrects 8 signs of ageing, covering deep wrinkles, fine lines, firmness, volume, elasticity, age spots, hydration, and radiance. Caudalie is a great option for radiant and age-defying skincare.

Abloom Organic Collagen Boost Mask:

Utilising the natural goodness of berries, Abloom’s Organic Collagen Boost Mask is enriched with antioxidants and vitamins to stimulate collagen production and fortify capillaries. Tailored for ageing or thinning skin, especially prone to broken capillaries or the impact of urban pollution, this mask restores and strengthens, promoting resilience for a healthier complexion.

Abloom sets a benchmark for skincare purity and simplicity. Their commitment to quality is unmatched with their use of whole plants, organic or wild-crafted ingredients, ethical sourcing, and handmade processes. The 'living' products, never heated beyond body temperature, maintain active plant enzymes for effective skincare.

With an ethical mantra of 'If you can't eat it, don't put it on your skin,' Abloom offers a range suitable for all skin types and ages, delivering perfection that your skin will thank you for.

If you adore using these products but crave a bit more TLC, step into our gorgeous clinic. We offer an array of facials, body treatments, and holistic therapies. Our facials, featuring renowned brands like Caudalie, focused on anti-aging and optimal skin health, while Oskia specialises in the use of MSM for skin vitality.

Why not pamper yourself with a lymphatic drainage massage, designed to eliminate toxins and pave the way for a healthier, toxin-free life? Additionally, explore the benefits of Bowen therapy, a remarkable treatment that rebalances the body and reduces inflammation, nurturing both skin and overall health.

Ancient & Brave Radiant Collagyn for Beauty:

For years, our customers have raved about Ancient & Brave Radiant Collagyn, and it's not hard to see why. This 100% vegan collagen supplement utilises the power of vitamin C's building blocks to naturally boost collagen production. Not only does it act as a shield against oxidative stress and signs of ageing, but it also features collagen-specific amino acids for a naturally youthful radiance.

Enriched with a blend of botanical extracts, each contributing its unique benefits, from reducing pigmentation to promoting skin repair and regeneration by enhancing blood flow. This delicious blend also features in our Super Skin Self-Care Smoothie.

Snow Fungus:

Have you ever wondered if there's a medicinal mushroom specifically for skin health? Of course there is! Enter Snow Fungus, a lesser-known yet fantastic mushroom for the skin. While it shares the usual benefits of medicinal mushrooms for immunity, Snow Fungus stands out for its potential to aid collagen production and enhance skin elasticity.

This unique mushroom's exceptional water-retention capabilities works to improve the skin's moisture retention. Beyond that, its rich polysaccharide - namely beta-glucans, content contributes to strengthening the skin barrier, preventing water loss, maintaining hydration, and protecting against stressors through its adaptogenic properties.

Traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits, Snow Fungus also contains antioxidant properties that reduce premature ageing and promote a brighter, more even complexion.

Terranova Vollagen Complex:

Vollagen, a creation by Terranova, undoubtedly earns its place in our "Natures Needles" section. This fermented amino acid blend mirrors the amino acid profile found in human collagen, ensuring superior absorption and utilisation by the body. As an excellent vegan collagen alternative, Vollagen provides essential nutrients crucial for maintaining optimal skin integrity.

Components like pine bark extract, grape seed extract, and trans-resveratrol further enhance collagen production and fortify skin integrity. An added bonus lies in the inclusion of organic sulphur, which aids in reducing sebum production, promoting blemish-free, radiant skin. The MAGNIFOOD blend, featuring nettle leaf, matcha, horsetail shoots, cacao, Gotu kola, and watercress, effectively addresses a spectrum of skin concerns, from eczema and acne to dermatitis, while supporting ageing skin, hair, and tendons.

Pure Encapsulations Pycnogenol 100mg:

Pure Encapsulations Pycnogenol 100mg offers a clinically studied strength of this remarkable extract. Experience the numerous benefits, from skin health to heart health and beyond. This proven strength ensures you receive the full range of advantages from pycnogenol (pine bark extract), including improved skin elasticity, maintained skin hydration, boosted hyaluronic acid production, enhanced vitamin C benefits, reduced signs of ageing, and prevention of skin darkening.

YourGut Glow:

YourGut Glow contains most of the ingredients we have talked about, and then some more. It’s an expertly created blend, with additional probiotics and potent nutrient rich ingredients such as haskap berry powder, butterfly pea flower powder (I feel shinier just saying that), flaxseed powder, pine bark (pycnogenol), and more. It is suitable for all skin conditions, from acne to psoriasis, working to prevent inflammatory-driven skin conditions, and also great for recovery from these conditions if they are already apparent.

For more tailored advice on supplements, please come and see us or get in touch. We can help guide you in the right direction with our team of experts.

If there is anything in this article you wish to know more about, simply pop in to see us at the shop, give us a call, or send us an email. We are here to support you.