Aging is a beautiful journey, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take steps to maintain youthful skin, energy and vitality. For Black women, prioritizing skincare and wellness can set the foundation for looking and feeling your best for years to come. While lifestyle habits, like staying hydrated, eating healthy and using sun protection play crucial roles, anti-aging supplements can offer additional support.
21Ninety asked registered dietitian and certified exercise nutrition coach, Catherine Gervacio, to share her top five supplements that help support youthful skin, energy and overall health.
A Registered Dietician’s Top 5 Picks
- Best Collagen: Youtheory Advanced Collagen
- Best Vitamin C: Nature Made Extra Strength Vitamin C
- Best Vitamin E: Solgar Vitamin E
- Best Vitamin A: Bronson Vitamin A
- Best NAD+ Precursors: ForestLeaf NAD Supplement
Anti Aging Supplements
Best Collagen
Collagen is the protein that keeps skin firm and plump. Unfortunately, as people age, their body’s natural collagen production declines, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin. Supplementing with collagen can improve skin elasticity and hydration while also benefiting joint health.
“Collagen is what keeps your skin firm and wrinkle-free. As we age, we lose skin elasticity,” Gervacio explained. “Taking collagen supplements helps improve skin elasticity, as well as hydration. It’s also good for joints.”
For the best results, look for hydrolyzed collagen peptides, which are more easily absorbed by the body.
Best Vitamin C
Collagen alone isn’t enough. Another anti-aging supplement you need is vitamin C. This vitamin will help your body maximize its benefits. It is a powerful antioxidant that plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis while also protecting skin from environmental damage.
“Vitamin C supports collagen production and also aids in skin repair and protection against environmental damage,” Gervacio told 21Ninety. “It fights off skin-damaging free radicals, so it gives your complexion a bright and youthful look.”
Incorporating vitamin C into your routine, through both supplements and foods, can help maintain that radiant glow.
Best Vitamin E
Vitamin E is another powerful antioxidant that defends the skin against damage from UV rays and pollution. It also plays a lesser-known role in supporting metabolic health, which contributes to healthier skin.
“This vitamin is also an antioxidant, specifically protecting the skin from damage caused by UV rays and pollution,” Gervacio said. “Not everyone knows this, but vitamin E also has a role in regulating insulin. Therefore, it supports metabolic health, contributing to better skin health. I recommend this for those who are always exposed to the sun’s rays.”
If you spend a lot of time outdoors, then adding a vitamin E supplement or incorporating vitamin E-rich foods, like almonds, sunflower seeds, and avocados, into your diet can be beneficial.
Best Vitamin A
Vitamin A is one of the most well-known anti-aging nutrients, particularly for its role in skin cell regeneration. Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, is a staple in many skincare routines, due to its ability to reduce fine lines and improve skin texture.
“Vitamin A helps the skin regenerate, smooth out fine lines, and improve elasticity,” Gervacio said.
Whether through diet, supplements or topical applications, vitamin A is a must-have for maintaining smooth, youthful skin.
Best NAD+ Precursors (NMN or NR)
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is a coenzyme that supports cellular energy and repair. Unfortunately, NAD+ levels decline as people age, affecting everything from skin health to brain function. Supplements like NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) or NR (Nicotinamide Riboside) help replenish these levels.
“This is currently the up-and-rising supplement in skincare,” Gervacio shared. “NAD+ is for cellular energy and repair. As we grow older, our levels drop, so supplements like NMN or NR can help boost energy, brain function, and potentially reduce signs of aging.”
NAD+ precursors are gaining popularity for their potential anti-aging benefits, making them a promising addition to any longevity-focused routine.
Do Any Anti-Aging Supplements Actually Work?
When it comes to anti-aging supplements, it’s natural to wonder whether the promises of youthful skin, increased energy and vitality are too good to be true. The truth is, the effectiveness of anti-aging supplements varies depending on the ingredient and individual needs. While no supplement can completely halt the aging process, many have been shown to offer significant benefits when used consistently as part of a holistic approach to health and wellness.
The Bottom Line on Anti-Aging Supplements
Aging backward isn’t just about looking youthful. It’s about feeling vibrant and strong from the inside out. While no supplement is magic, incorporating the right ones into a holistic self-care routine can help maintain glowing skin, energy, and overall wellness.
Before adding new supplements to your regimen, consult a healthcare provider to ensure they align with your specific needs. Pair them with a balanced diet, hydration, regular movement and skincare to maximize their effects. With the right tools, aging becomes an empowering journey of self-care and self-love.
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