Omega-3 fatty acids Omega-3 fatty acids provide the skin with many benefits, including the prevention of wrinkles. Research shows that they reduce inflammation in the skin, thereby slowing the breakdown of the skin’s supportive structures—elastin and collagen. The omega-3 fatty acid known as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is particularly efficient at preventing the inflammation that can aggravate eczema, psoriasis, acne flare-ups and other skin lesions and rashes.

Omega-3 fatty acids also help keep the skin supple and glowing, by providing support for the cell membranes. This allows them to better retain moisture.

Where to find them: Oily fish such as salmon, herring, anchovies, mackerel, sardines and tuna are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. These fish contain plentiful quantities of EPA. Consuming canned varieties, such as Admiral® Pacific Mackerel or Millionaires Sardines—both available from London Drugs—is just as beneficial. Fish oil supplements such as London Naturals Wild Ocean formulas are an excellent way to make sure your skin stays as healthy and youthful as possible. Omega-3 fatty acids also exert a beneficial effect on the joints and blood vessels, helping to prevent arthritis and heart disease.

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Vitamins A, C and E These antioxidant vitamins are essential for the production and maintenance of the skin’s supportive matrix. By quelling the action of free radicals in the skin, they prevent damage to collagen and elastin, thereby slowing the development of wrinkles and age spots (hyperpigmentation).

Where to find them: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables (especially leafy green vegetables, red, green and orange peppers, carrots, yams, pomegranates and berries) will help supply your skin with the elements it needs to stay supple, plumped and glowing. If you do not eat many fruits and vegetables, you may want to take a daily multivitamin supplement or single vitamin supplements. (Please be sure to take only the suggested dose of vitamin A as too much of this vitamin can be toxic.) London Drugs carries a number of single vitamin supplements, which you will find in the pharmacy.

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Methyl-sulfonyl-methane (MSM) MSM is a natural form of an organic sulfonyl sulfur compound that is present in all living organisms. Sulfur provided by MSM is required for the production of healthy collagen as well as keratin—a component of the skin, hair and nails. MSM’s antioxidant activity ensures that the cell walls remain flexible and the skin soft. This important compound decreases with age.

Where to find it: MSM is present in a variety of foods, including fresh fruits and green vegetables, meat, seafood, and some grains. It is also found in many common beverages including milk, coffee and tea. You can also obtain MSM in supplement form, such as Webber Naturals® MSM. This compound is also helpful for people suffering from arthritis and is often combined with glucosamine sulfate.