There is an abundance of beauty products available on the market right now and it's only normal to be confused. We ask a dermatologist in Singapore to share some of her insights, along with our own tips
This story was first published on April 19, 2021, and updated on November 9, 2021.
Our beauty regimes may have changed since Covid-19 hit the world. Some of us may have gotten used to a longer skincare routine to try and pamper ourselves a little more, while the rest of us may have resorted to quicker patterns that still do the trick. Amidst the usual topical skincare steps, there is also the option of adding beauty supplements to our daily routine. However, there is a wide variety of products available, and who is to say that you are consuming what is right for you? Sure, reading the ingredients is the most crucial part of all so that you are aware of potential allergens but other than that, there is the question of whether these supplements are even necessary in the first place?
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Personally, I have tried a number of beauty supplements such as cult US-based wellness brand Vital Protein's collagen coffee creamer (no thanks to Kylie Jenner for mentioning this on her social media), Laneige's Youth Collagen drink, Swisse's Ultiboost Bella Collagen Jelly and vitamins for stronger hair, skin and nails, apple cider vinegar gummies and more. These products worked well for me but at the same time, I was also maintaining a regular skincare routine that includes topical treatments. However, I have also been aware that our overall skin health has a lot to do with our diet and the amount of nutrition we are getting.
As someone who is keen on finding out more about whether beauty supplements are necessary, I spoke to a dermatologist in Singapore to get an expert's take on key ingredients and products that have gained prominence in the beauty realm.
Fish oil
Many of us in Singapore may have memories (fond or not) of having to consume cod liver oil during our childhood due to its health benefits. Fish oil remains one of the most recommended superfoods available out there. And it’s not just well-loved by us in Asia; American Youtube beauty guru Jaclyn Hill once recommended to her fans a lemon-infused cod liver fish oil by Carlson Labs that she claimed did wonders for her skin. Some have tried using fish oil topically as it is said to improve the skin barrier, but it is best to consult a dermatologist before applying anything that you're unsure of.
Fish oil is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which are extremely hydrating.
“As the outermost layer of our skin is actually held together by ceramide molecules derived from fatty lipids, it is important if you wish to have healthy skin that you maintain your overall health with a diet that is filled with antioxidants which are mainly from plants ... The consumption of fatty fish rich in omega-3 or plant sources from plant seed oils or even evening primrose oil has been shown in studies to have a positive benefit in terms of repairing the skin barrier,” according to Dr Teo Wan Lin, dermatologist and founder of TWL Specialist Skin & Laser Centre.
Therefore, taking fish oil supplements should not mean that you are replacing foods that are rich in omega-3s. Some good sources of these are flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and canola oil.
Read more: Skincare Tips: 5 Best Foods to Eat for Healthy and Radiant Skin