We recently published an article on “Vitamins A to K and what they do for our skin specifically”, and now we’re following up with a sister article about minerals and how they help our skin care.
ZINC: an invaluable mineral that acts as a natural healer and a powerful anti-oxidant. It helps skin fight the damaging effects of free radicals. Zinc encourages the production of collagen and elastin, which are naturally found in the skin and enhance its elasticity, helping to maintain flexibility. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that support the underlying structure of the skin, helping reduce the appearance of lines and other signs of aging. Zinc is believed to help control acne, through the regulation of the skin’s oil production.
COPPER: the third most abundant trace mineral in the body and a powerful antioxidant. Copper acts to remove free radicals and helps prevent cell structure damage. It also stimulates the synthesis of collagen (a protein responsible for supporting skin growth) and elastin (helping to maintain skin elasticity, tone and texture). Why not just buy a cream with collagen? Collagen molecules are too big to penetrate the skins surface, hence rendering it a useless ingredient in skin care – look for ingredients like copper in foods and supplements to stimulate your own body’s production.
MAGNESIUM: about 50% of magnesium in the body is found inside tissue cells and organs, making it an essential skin care mineral. Magnesium penetrates below the surface of the skin, promoting the healing and regeneration of cells. It helps rid skin of dead cells which dull the complexion, promoting the growth of new, healthy cells and resulting in a fresher, more radiant-looking complexion. Taking Epsom salt baths high in magnesium is a great way to reap the benefits of this important mineral. Your skin will readily absorb the magnesium due to the open pores from soaking in warm water – a relaxing way to get a healthy dose!
CALCIUM: the most abundant mineral in the body, which regulates the replacement of skin cells. By increasing the level of this mineral in the epidermis (top layer of the skin), the rate of cellular turnover is increased. The result: plumper, younger-looking skin. People with Higher levels of calcium in the skin are less likely to experience premature aging of the skin or skin cancer (as a result of the calcium stimulating the skin’s production of protective antioxidants). Eat food rich in calcium such as yogurt, salmon, beans, nuts and broccoli.
SELENIUM: of great benefit to the skin, this mineral is an essential mineral with antioxidant functions. For example, gluthione peroxidase (containing selenium) is an antioxidant, detoxifying enzyme that helps the body fight acne. Several antioxidants founded on selenium help prevent free radicals from damaging collagen and elastin in the skin, reducing the effect of aging and improving elasticity. Selenium is an extremely beneficial mineral for those who are fighting acne.
