15 Supplements for Skin Health Dermatologists Recommend

Ask any dermatologist and they'll say a serum works best when the body is already nourished. Inside every luminous complexion are specific oral nutrients: collagen peptides that rebuild structure, omega-3s that cool inflammation, vitamin C that sparks new collagen, vitamin D that steadies immunity, zinc that balances oil, probiotics that tune the gut-skin axis, hyaluronic acid that locks in moisture, astaxanthin that shields against UV, and phytoceramides that mend the barrier.

Whole foods lay the groundwork, yet smart supplementation can fill persistent gaps, calm irritation, and deliver faster results—provided the formulas are clean, evidence-backed, and properly dosed. The guide ahead spotlights 15 dermatologist-approved options, kicking off with Revitalexis Inner Glow Skin Nutrient Complex before covering collagen, omegas, key vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and barrier builders. Expect research summaries, optimal dosing, safety flags, and simple tips to fold each capsule or powder into a ritual that feeds healthy skin from within.

1. Revitalexis Inner Glow Skin Nutrient Complex

Dermatologists often begin a supplement conversation with a single question: “Are you covering the fundamentals?” Inner Glow answers with a tidy, two-capsule solution that feeds collagen production, hydration, and antioxidant defense all at once—no label gymnastics required.

What makes this formula different

Revitalexis pairs its “Clean ingredients, clinical brilliance” ethos with rigorous third-party testing, so every batch is non-GMO, free of gluten, soy, and dairy, and never stuffed with magnesium stearate or artificial dyes. Inside the capsule sit marine collagen peptides (type I & III), vitamin C, low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, astaxanthin from microalgae, and chelated zinc—nutrients chosen for proven synergy rather than marketing hype.

Benefits dermatologists observe

In clinic follow-ups, most users report noticeably plumper, calmer skin within four to eight weeks. Collagen and vitamin C team up for firmer dermis; hyaluronic acid boosts surface moisture; astaxanthin dials down redness and UV stress; zinc keeps oil in check. Together they amplify any topical routine for a true inside-out glow.

How to take it

Swallow two capsules—or stir one scoop of the flavor-neutral powder—into breakfast daily. Consistency matters; skipping days slows collagen signaling. Power users pair Inner Glow with the Revitalexis Antioxidant Ginkgo Booster for an extra free-radical shield.

Safety and suitability notes

Pescatarian-friendly and gentle on sensitive stomachs. Skip if you have a fish or shellfish allergy, and always clear new supplements with your doctor when pregnant, nursing, or taking blood thinners.

2. Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides

Collagen is the scaffolding that keeps skin springy, yet production dips about 1% every year after our mid-20s. Ingesting pre-digested (hydrolyzed) peptides gives the body ready-made building blocks and, importantly, the “hey, make more collagen” signal fibroblasts respond to.

Why dermatologists recommend it

Tiny peptides—usually 2–3 amino acids long—circumvent digestion losses and reach the dermis via the bloodstream, where they stimulate both collagen and elastin synthesis.

Proven skin improvements

Clinical trials show 2.5–10 g daily for 8–12 weeks increases elasticity, smooths fine lines, and even fortifies brittle nails and hair.

Best forms & dosage

1 scoop (≈ 5 g) grass-fed bovine or wild-caught marine collagen
Enzymatically hydrolyzed for rapid absorption
Stir the neutral powder into coffee, smoothies, yogurt, or oatmeal; heat doesn’t degrade it.

Safety considerations

Collagen is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS). Mild bloating can occur; flavored versions may hide excess sodium or sugar, so scan the label before you buy.

3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Fish or Algal Oil)

Ask any dermatologist to name an all-around skin soother and they’ll likely point to omega-3s. These long-chain fats douse internal inflammation that topicals can’t touch.

Anti-inflammatory mechanism

EPA and DHA replace arachidonic acid in cell membranes, lowering TNF-α, IL-6, and other pro-inflammatory cytokines while quenching UV-induced reactive oxygen species before they damage collagen.

Skin concerns that improve

Randomized trials note fewer acne pustules, calmer psoriasis plaques, reduced atopic dermatitis itch, and even less post-sun erythema when patients hit therapeutic omega-3 levels.

Dosing guidance

For everyday maintenance, dermatologists aim for 1–3 g combined EPA + DHA daily, taken with a fat-containing meal; vegan clients can swap fish oil for algal capsules.

Cautions

High doses may thin blood; pause supplementation five days before surgery or if you take anticoagulants, and always choose IFOS-certified products to avoid mercury and oxidation.

4. Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid)

Vitamin C is the mortar that holds collagen’s bricks together, yet the body can’t synthesize or store much, so you need a steady daily supply.

Collagen co-factor & antioxidant

L-ascorbic acid donates electrons for proline and lysine hydroxylation, stabilizing newly formed collagen. It also recycles vitamin E and neutralizes UV-generated free radicals.

Visible benefits

Supplementation consistently brightens dull tone, fades hyperpigmented spots, and shortens post-laser or peel recovery times.

Effective intake

500–1,000 mg buffered or liposomal vitamin C split morning and evening for steadier plasma levels
Take alongside collagen peptides to maximize pro-collagen signaling

Safety notes

Doses above 2 g may upset the gut and, in kidney-stone formers, raise urinary oxalate; keep intake sensible and hydrate well. Buffered forms tame acidity for sensitive stomachs.

5. Vitamin D3

Vitamin D isn’t just for bones; keratinocytes convert it to calcitriol, a hormone that keeps the epidermis calm, intact, and breakout-free.

Skin-immune regulator

Calcitriol downshifts NF-κB signaling, boosts antimicrobial peptides like cathelicidin, and short-circuits inflammatory cascades behind eczema and acne.

Who’s deficient

Indoor workers, sunscreen loyalists, people with deep skin tones, and anyone living above the 37th parallel often clock sub-optimal levels.

Supplement plan

Most dermatologists suggest 1,000–2,000 IU of vitamin D3 with a fat-containing meal—capsule or liquid drop is fine—then retest serum 25(OH)D after 12 weeks.

Monitoring

Stay below 4,000 IU daily unless your doctor is tracking calcium and phosphate; excessive intake can cause muscle pain or kidney stones.

6. Vitamin E (Mixed Tocopherols & Tocotrienols)

Although usually marketed as a single nutrient, vitamin E is a family of eight fat-soluble compounds that work best together. By supplementing the full spectrum—d-alpha, beta, gamma, delta tocopherols plus their tocotrienol cousins—you fortify the skin’s lipid envelope and recycle spent antioxidants like vitamin C for longer protection.

Lipid-layer defender

Vitamin E slips into cell membranes, quenching UV-generated free radicals and stopping the chain reaction that turns healthy sebum rancid and comedogenic.

Dermatology use cases

Speeds healing after scar revision or microneedling
Soothes eczema and psoriasis flares
Eases post-sun redness and peeling

Dosage

Take 100–200 IU of natural (RRR) mixed tocopherols with a meal containing fat; look for added tocotrienols (10–20 mg) for superior antioxidant reach.

Safety watch

High doses may potentiate prescription anticoagulants. Verify the capsule’s oil base—many use soybean—if you’re allergic, and keep total daily intake below 400 IU unless supervised.

7. Vitamin A & Carotenoids (Retinyl, Beta-Carotene)

When topical retinoids sting or a client wants extra support, dermatologists often reach for oral vitamin A and its carotenoid cousins. Retinyl esters and beta-carotene convert in the gut to retinoic acid, the signal that orchestrates keratinocyte turnover and reins in sebum. Unlike prescription creams, these doses rarely cause peeling or irritation, so they serve as a gentle long-game strategy.

Internal retinoid boost

Retinol → retinal → retinoic acid drives balanced renewal and keeps oil under control.

Skin outcomes

Expect smoother texture, fewer comedones, and a fresher overall tone within 6–8 weeks.

Intake guide

Aim for 5,000 IU retinol equivalents plus 15 mg beta-carotene daily with a fat-containing meal.

Pregnancy alert

Avoid more than 8,000 IU pre-formed vitamin A while pregnant; beta-carotene is safer but still clear any supplement with your OB-GYN.

8. Biotin (Vitamin B7)

Think of biotin as the rivets that hold keratin layers together. While full-blown deficiencies are rare, marginal intakes can show up as flaky scalps, brittle nails, and rash-prone skin—issues dermatologists flag daily in clinic.

Keratin infrastructure

Biotin acts as a carboxylase co-factor, enabling amino-acid metabolism that builds strong keratin in hair, skin, and nails.

Who benefits

Clients with brittle nails or seborrheic dermatitis
People on long antibiotic or isotretinoin courses
Vegans whose diets lack biotin-rich eggs and fish

Dosage

Chew or swallow 2,500–5,000 mcg daily; water-soluble excess is excreted, making toxicity unlikely.

Lab interference

Pause supplements 48 hours before thyroid, hormone, or cardiac troponin tests—biotin can skew certain immunoassays.

9. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

Niacinamide is the flush-free form of vitamin B3 that nourishes skin from the inside out. Dermatologists lean on it when a patient needs stronger barrier function and more even tone without irritation.

Barrier & pigment control

Oral B3 ramps up ceramide synthesis and reduces transepidermal water loss, while simultaneously down-regulating tyrosinase—the enzyme behind excess melanin.

Clinical benefits

Trials report smaller pores, faded blotchy spots, calmer rosacea, and brighter tone after eight weeks.

How to take it

Swallow 500 mg flush-free capsules twice daily with food to hit the 1 g research dose; pair with a 5 % topical serum for extra punch.

Risks

Stay under 3 g a day; higher amounts used for cholesterol may strain the liver—check with your doctor.

10. Zinc

Even the most meticulous skincare routine struggles when zinc is low. This trace mineral is woven into more than 300 enzymes that handle DNA repair, immunity, and inflammation control—the backstage crew responsible for clear, fast-healing skin and a balanced oil flow. Because the body stores very little, daily intake matters, especially for acne-prone teens, plant-based eaters, and anyone who pops proton-pump inhibitors that block absorption.

Repair & oil-balance mineral

Zinc fuels DNA/RNA polymerases for orderly cell turnover, powers antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase, and tames 5-α-reductase so sebaceous glands don’t go into overdrive.

Skin targets

Derms reach for it to calm acne, shorten wound closure time, and ease perioral/periorificial dermatitis flares.

Intake

Take 15–30 mg of highly absorbable picolinate or bisglycinate with food; nausea often signals an empty-stomach dose.

Copper balance

For every extra 30 mg of zinc, add ~1 mg copper (or include a multivitamin) to avoid secondary copper deficiency and related anemia.

11. Selenium

Selenium is a trace mineral that flies under the radar until skin stress shows up. Dermatologists value it because just micrograms energize the body’s master antioxidant network.

Glutathione partner

It slips into the active site of glutathione peroxidase, clearing peroxide radicals before they can dent collagen or trigger UV-induced pigmentation.

Recommended amount

Most derms aim for 100–200 mcg/day of selenomethionine—the form best absorbed. Two Brazil nuts roughly hit that mark; otherwise grab a micro-dose capsule.

Toxicity watch

Chronic intakes above 400 mcg can backfire with brittle hair, peeling nails, metallic “garlic” breath, or, rarely, GI upset—so respect the microgram dosing.

12. Probiotics & Postbiotics

When breakouts, redness, or dullness refuse to budge, dermatologists often look below the surface—straight to the gut. Targeted probiotics and their next-generation cousins, postbiotics, act as inside-out supplements for skin health, dialing down systemic inflammation and fine-tuning immunity that shows up on your face.

Gut–skin axis

A balanced microbiome produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that strengthen the intestinal wall, lower circulating IL-6 and TNF-α, and ultimately calm overreactive skin.

Strains with evidence

Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG
Lactobacillus paracasei
Bifidobacterium lactis HN019

Dosing tips

Choose an enteric-coated capsule supplying 10–20 billion CFU daily on an empty stomach; add 5 g inulin or oat fiber to feed the new residents.

Safety

Generally well-tolerated, but anyone immunocompromised or fresh off organ surgery should clear live cultures with their physician first.

13. Hyaluronic Acid (Oral)

Topical serums work on the surface, but oral hyaluronic acid (HA) pushes hydration from the bloodstream outward, acting like an internal moisture magnet that plumps skin head-to-toe.

Water-binding champion

Low-molecular-weight HA carries a ‑1 charge that locks onto water molecules, expanding to hold up to 1,000× its weight and cushioning dermal collagen.

Results you can expect

Clinical data show 120–240 mg daily for six to eight weeks:

20 % drop in measurable dryness
Fewer fine lines around the eyes
Softer, more elastic feel

Dosage

Take 120–240 mg sodium hyaluronate with a full glass of water, morning or night; consistency matters more than timing.

Tolerance

Extremely safe—occasional mild bloating resolves with extra fluids; no known drug interactions at studied doses.

14. Astaxanthin

Astaxanthin is the red antioxidant that colors salmon. Orally, it embeds in skin cell membranes and neutralizes free radicals before they dent collagen.

Super-antioxidant carotenoid

Its polar ends span lipid bilayers, quenching singlet oxygen up to 6,000× better than vitamin C and far outperforming vitamin E, without turning pro-oxidant.

Benefits

Eight-week studies tie 4–12 mg daily to better elasticity, shallower crow’s-feet, lighter age spots, and higher UV tolerance (raised minimal-erythema dose).

Intake

Take 4–12 mg with a fat-containing meal; natural astaxanthin from Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae shows superior bioavailability versus synthetic forms. Pairing it with omega-3 oil can further boost absorption.

Precautions

May tint stools orange; high doses could lower blood pressure. Stay under 40 mg/day and monitor if on anticoagulants.

15. Phytoceramides

Lipid-barrier rebuilders

Plant-derived ceramides mimic the waxy lipids that make up roughly half of the stratum corneum. By topping up this supply from within, they plug microscopic “cracks,” cut transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and shield skin from irritants.

Measurable gains

Human trials show a 20–30 % hydration bump, smoother texture, and less flaking in as little as four weeks—even during winter or retinoid therapy.

Best practice dose

Swallow 350–400 mg standardized wheat-, rice-, or konjac-derived ceramides daily with a fatty snack to boost absorption.

Allergy note

Skip wheat-based versions if you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity; reach for rice-sourced phytoceramides instead.

Healthy Skin Starts Within

A glowing complexion isn’t built on lotions alone—it’s the by-product of a diet packed with colorful produce, lean protein, good fats, plenty of water, and the right supplemental “insurance” where gaps persist. The 15 evidence-backed nutrients above reinforce every layer of the skin stack: collagen for scaffolding, omegas and antioxidants to settle inflammation, vitamins and minerals to spark repair, probiotics to steady immunity, and barrier builders like hyaluronic acid and phytoceramides to lock in moisture.

Think of them as a toolkit, not a prescription. Pick the few that match your goals—firmer texture, brighter tone, calmer breakouts—and use them consistently while you continue to prioritize whole foods, daily SPF, and quality sleep. When you’re ready for a streamlined, science-driven starting point, explore the Inner Glow Skin Nutrient Complex and the rest of our clean topical lineup at Revitalexis and turn your self-care ritual into visible, lasting radiance.