Vitamin C Might Work Best From the Inside Out
Midjourney
Inside Out: If you’ve ever gone down a rabbit hole researching the vast world of skincare products, you’ve definitely encountered vitamin C, usually in the form of a little glass bottle of serum that promises brighter, firmer skin. It turns out, however, that the most effective place for the nutrient might be on your plate instead of the medicine cabinet.
The Study: Researchers in New Zealand looked at what happens when people increase their vitamin C intake through food rather than supplements or skincare products. In a study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, healthy adults added vitamin C–rich fruit to their daily diets. Those increases were linked to thicker skin and improved renewal of the outer skin layer, both of which are markers of healthier skin structure.
The Takeaway: Getting enough vitamin C may benefit your skin. For most healthy adults, about 250 milligrams a day is enough, which is easy to do through food. Consistency matters, though, since the body doesn’t store vitamin C for long.
Keep In Mind: The study used SunGold kiwifruit because it delivers a reliable dose, but the researchers expect similar benefits from a range of fresh fruits and vegetables.
