Did you know that your nails grow faster in the summer than in the winter? That the sun is responsible for 80% of premature skin ageing and that water reflects up to 90% of the suns UV rays? Summer is officially here and this time of year calls for extra nourishment as we spend more time outdoors in New Zealand's harsh summer conditions. Long summer days can leave a lasting effect, however the good news is, there are some easy and effective ways to naturally support your skin, hair and nails.
Here are our top 10 natural summer nutrients:
1) Vitamin D
Vitamin D is produced by the body when we are exposed to the sun; however we need to be careful with the levels of exposure to the sun in New Zealand. Applying sunscreen and covering up is important for our skin, but it can also limit the absorption of vitamin D from the sun. Taking a vitamin D supplement can be a helpful way to ensure you are getting the recommended daily amount. Choose a
Vitamin D3 supplement because this is the most active and absorbable form of vitamin D.
2) Vitamin C
One of the most effective nutrients for the body,
vitamin C is important for collagen production, as it supports firm skin and hair growth. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and helps to fight free radical damage to prevent premature ageing and reduce inflammation in the body. Not only used for healthier-looking skin,
vitamin Cassists in wound healing (including cuts and burns) making it an essential supplement if you are active in the outdoors this summer.
3) Vitamin E
Another powerful antioxidant is vitamin E, which boosts blood circulation and hair growth. Vitamin E can be found in nuts and seeds, however when used as a supplement, taken alongside vitamin C, it can also help protect your skin from the suns damaging rays.
4) Biotin
Summer is synonymous with swimming, but too much exposure to salt and chlorine can cause dry and brittle skin, hair and nails. Also known as vitamin H, biotin is great for summer when we spend time in the water and at the beach, as not only does it prevent hair and nails from breaking, it also helps to stimulate growth. Biotin can be sourced from eggs, dairy and red meat, however a good supplement is a great way to ensure you are getting your daily dose.
5) Placenta
Placenta has been traditionally used throughout Asia for hundreds of years for its anti-ageing and antioxidant effects. Placenta is a rich source of nutrients that supports skin health by smoothing wrinkles, increasing skin vitality, and supporting general health and wellbeing.
6) Silica
Known as the beauty mineral, silica is found in our body’s fast growing tissues. A key component of collagen, our bodies depend on silica to prevent dry skin, hair breakage and brittle nails. As we become older, our silica production decreases and as it is found in low levels in our diet, our bodies become prone to damage. Slica can help to revitalise your hair, skin and nails by regenerating and reviving collagen.
7) Evening Primrose Oil
Evening Primrose Oil is a rich source of omega-6 essential fatty acids, which helps to keep your skin moisturised from the inside out. Evening Primrose Oil supports cell health, helps to reduce the signs of ageing and maintains healthy, supple skin.
8) Fish Oil
Omega-3 fatty acids are also important in maintaining healthy skin and shiny hair. Fish oil promotes hydration and reduces inflammation. The body does not produce essential fatty acids, so it is important that you include enough in your diet. If you find increasing your weekly servings of omega-rich fish through food difficult, then an
Omega-3 fish oilsupplement may be a convenient alternative.
9) Grape Seed
Grape seed extract has been found to prevent premature ageing and loss of skin elasticity. An excellent antioxidant, grape seed helps the renewal of collagen and elastin in the blood vessels and skin, and protects the cells from free radical damage.
10) Zinc
Zinc is well-known for supporting a healthy immune system, but did you know that it also plays a role in the production of collagen, which is essential for healthy, supple skin, cell repair and strong hair and nails. If you notice your hair sheds a lot, you have slow healing wounds, stretch marks or white spots on your nails, taking a Zinc supplement may be just what your body needs.
For an easy, convenient solution to help you survive summer,
Good Health Skin, Hair and Nails + and
Good Health Imaglow provide a combination of some of these top 10 summer nutrients in comprehensive, easy to take, natural, beauty formulas. They help to support collagen production and provide antioxidant protection.
Nourishing your body from the inside out with natural nutrients is an easy way to revitalise your hair, restore strength in your nails and promote radiant, beautiful skin this summer.
