It is known that vitamins are involved in basic biochemical processes, and their deficiency leads to malfunctions of the body. Nowadays the action of chemical compounds is used both for medical purposes and for cosmetic procedures. However, it is worth knowing which vitamins help the body in the treatment of specific diseases.
Vitamins are divided into fat-soluble (A, D, E, K) and water-soluble (B, C, H). In cosmetology they are used to synthesize compounds necessary for the proper functioning of the skin. Their beneficial effects are used for hydration, keratinization, antioxidant and radiation protection. Moreover, they are used to prevent the formation of harmful compounds.
Vitamin A (Retinol)
It is a component of many skin preparations, body care cosmetics, regenerating and protective products as well as products for the treatment of dermatological diseases (excessive keratosis and scaling).
It belongs to the so-called “vitamins of youth”. However, retinol acetate and palmitate, retinal, retinoic acid and beta-carotene are mostly used in cosmetics.
Vitamin A stimulates and regulates cell division, stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis and promotes keratinization, thus accelerating epidermal renewal.
It is worth noting that retinol and retinoids are the most effective substances to slow down the aging process.
They smooth and soften the skin, eliminate fine lines and wrinkles and reduce discoloration. They also stimulate the activity and increase the number of fibroblasts and collagen fibers.
The most effective form of vitamin A is retinoic acid (tretinoin). It is used to reduce hyperkeratinization, to cleanse the sebaceous glands of the skin.
Tretinoin can be found in dermatological preparations that are only available by prescription.
Vitamin A esters (retinyl palmitate and retinyl acetate) have the worst effects on the skin. They show little effect against wrinkles. Their main task is to moisturize, prevent peeling and keratosis and act as weak antioxidants.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
It primarily promotes cellular respiration. Cosmetology uses a chemical compound of this type because it has a positive effect on destroying seborrhea and rosacea, and also works well for other seborrheic diseases. Riboflavin is also used for lip and hair care.
Vitamin B3 (nicotinamide)
It is used in cosmetics in the form of niacinamide. It is important to note that vitamin B3 is good for all skin types. It stimulates both the production of lipid components (ceramides) and elements responsible for maintaining proper hydration of the skin.
Thanks to this, it acts against the formation of wrinkles, reduces the loss of trapezoidal water and improves the elasticity and condition of mature skin. In addition, it is able to inhibit the transfer of melanin from pigment cells to the epidermis, which is used in the fight against discoloration.
It is also worth noting that this compound maintains UV filters and stimulates repair of cell damage caused by UV radiation. Niacinamide soothes irritation, accelerates skin healing and regeneration, and is used to treat skin from mild forms of acne.
Vitamin B7 (Vitamin H, Biotin)
Regulates sebum production by inhibiting sebum activity. This is why it is used to treat acne and seborrheic dermatitis. Vitamin B7 is responsible for maintaining proper skin lipid metabolism, against the formation of wrinkles and prevents splitting nails. It can be found in preparations to prevent hair loss.
Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic acid)
It exists in two isomers. Only the first type of vitamin C shows 100% biological activity and can be absorbed by the skin. L-ascorbic acid is important for the synthesis of collagen and elastin.
It also neutralizes free radicals and protects the structure of inner cells from oxidation. Moreover, it has anti-inflammatory properties, slightly exfoliates and lightens the skin.
Systematic use of L-ascorbic acid reduces the tendency to freckles and discoloration. This compound is ideal for mature m sensitive skin. It reduces redness and improves blood microcirculation.
Vitamin C is useful for reducing fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes as well as dark circles. Slightly reduces the production of sebum.
It is essential for the synthesis of collagen. It is used in anti-wrinkle products. In addition, L-ascorbic acid is considered a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals and supports sun protection.
Vitamin E (Alpha-tocopherol)
Strengthens the skin’s protective barrier and, like vitamin C, is considered a powerful antioxidant. It inhibits the development of inflammation, strengthens cell membranes and intercellular lipids.
It is used to reduce various problems associated with excessive sunburn: erythema, swelling, burns or damage caused by ultraviolet rays.
Vitamin E is present in tanning products with an SPF factor (can increase its value by up to two times). Moreover, it is used in cosmetics to care for sensitive skin, discoloration and skin with signs of aging.
It is often used in combination with organic chemical type A – to treat acne and eczema.
Vitamin K
Has anti-hemorrhagic effects. It is used in cosmetics for all kinds of extravasations and problems related to poor blood vessels.
This type of compound not only constricts and seals blood vessels, but also reduces bleeding and prevents bruising. In addition, vitamin K supports skin whitening and regenerates skin after sun exposure.
Vitamin F (EFA)
Its traditional name: essential unsaturated fatty acids (EFA). It is a growth factor, the proper functioning of the skin and nutrition. It speeds up the process of granulation and regeneration of the skin. Vitamin F is used in the treatment of ulcers, seborrhea, psoriasis, acne, cracks and skin rashes, thermal burns and 1st and 2nd degree sunburns.
Vitamin P
It is a mixture of bioflavonoids (hesperidins, rutin, troxerutin) that have the properties of vitamin P. Using this compound improves the elasticity of capillary walls, inhibits oxidation of ascorbic acid and prevents fragility of blood vessels.
Vitamin P also has an anti-inflammatory effect. In addition, it increases resistance to viral infections, supports microcirculation and reduces capillary permeability.
Enriching the diet with the vitamins described above, as well as their simultaneous use in cosmetic preparations, can contribute to the beneficial effects of these ingredients. But don’t overdo it, it can lead to hypervitaminosis.
