Proper skin care is an important aspect of health and well-being.

Skin is the largest organ of the body and is the most vulnerable one.

It is exposed to sun, wind pollution and other outside factors. All of them leave their marks on the skin. It also reflects what is going on inside the body: allergies cause skin rashes, for example.

It is important to use protective creams to protect the skin from the harmful outside factors.

Skin care from the inside is equally important.Vitamins and minerals that protect the skin from the harmful inside and outside factors are Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, Sulfur (MSM), Zinc. Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) and water play crucial role in skin care as well.

Skin care tips:

- Collagen is glue that keeps our body together. It provides firmness to our skin.

Vitamin C plays an essential role in the formation of collagen. Collagen formation is also dependent on sulfur. Skin collagen decreases with age. In order to keep the skin firm and young it is essential to take Vitamin C and MSM (sulfur) supplements.

- Keratin is another major component in the skin. It is also present in the hair and nails. Without Vitamin A a condition called keratosis can develop. This causes flaky, rough skin that resembles “goose flesh”. Hence Vitamin A is another supplement to take for healthy looking skin.

- Vitamin E used in ointments can help reduce the appearance of scars. Creams with Vitamin E can protect the skin from UV damage. Vitamin E taken as a supplement can protect the skin from free radicals attack.

- Some researchers found a link between low selenium level and skin cancer. Selenium is an important antioxidant and should be a part of a daily antioxidant formula.

- Water and EFAs prevent the skin from drying and premature aging and hence play an important part in skin care.

- Zinc helps to heal the skin and prevents stretch marks.

- Creams that contain anti-oxidant vitamins and minerals are good for protecting the skin from the outside factors.

- Another important factor in skin care is healthy nutrition. Vitamins, minerals and other supplements can work only with the right nutrition. Whole grains, fruits and vegetables, legumes, fish, nuts and seeds should be the important part of not only skin care but any healthy diet.

It is not possible to maintain a healthy skin by application of creams only. Body should be detoxified and correct nutrition followed in order to maintain the health of the skin and body in general.