Skin, Hair, & Nails
Skin, hair, and nails are all part of our integumentary system (i.e., the body’s outer layer), which includes all of the organs (and their appendages) that form the outermost layer of the body. Alongside its protective role, this system is also important for aesthetic purposes. A number of treatments (dietary, supplementary, and topical) have been studied for hair and skin health.
Last Updated:August 16, 2022
Skin problems include aging, acne, eczema, and skin cancer, whereas hair issues involve hair loss, breaking, and graying. Nail concerns consist of brittleness, discoloration, and fungal infections, which are often caused by age, damage, oxidative stress, and inflammation.
A diet rich in essential nutrients — including proteins, micronutrients, and essential fatty acids — is crucial for the proper functioning and health of the skin, hair, and nails. Deficiencies in these nutrients can lead to abnormalities in these areas.
Supplements of interest for skin, hair, and nails include cocoa extract, coconut oil, nicotinamide, and Polypodium leucotomos for skin health, whereas cysteine, lysine, marine proteins, procyanidins, pumpkin seed oil, B vitamins, vitamin D, vitamin E derivatives, and zinc have been studied for hair loss. There is limited research on supplements for nails, but supplements for hair may also benefit nails due to their similar composition.
Supplement Guide
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