Nutritional Dermatology: Optimizing Dietary Choices for Skin Health

Youthful, smooth skin is highly desired in modern society. Individuals invest in cosmetics, plastic surgeons, and dermatologists in pursuit of perfect skin. However, many do not seek out dietary changes to improve skin health. Although research has been conducted on the role of nutrition and select nutrients and phytonutrients on skin health, there is a lack of healthy food recommendations for clear skin.

The literature was assessed to determine which nutrients and phytonutrients play a significant role in the protection and maintenance of skin health. Key compounds were highlighted as there is evidence to suggest they have a significant role in skin health: vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, zinc, omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols/flavonoids, copper, selenium, and silicon. USDA FoodData Central and FooDB (food database), were utilized to select foods and food groups containing the key nutrients and phytonutrients.

A skin-healthy dietary pattern is proposed in addition to a scoring system to assess diet. A sample skin-healthy daily diet was designed, using only whole foods, that met the Daily Values for vitamins and minerals and contained key compounds for skin health.

There is a clear link between nutrition and skin health, or nutritional dermatology; however, more research needs to be done to find the intersection between both disciplines.