We’ve always said that the key to youthful skin begins on the inside. And as we age, the role the right mix of vitamins and minerals play in our anti-strategy becomes even more important. While topically applied vitamins are always the best route, oral vitamins are an important part of the equation.

What exactly are the best anti-aging vitamins?

1. Vitamin A
Vitamin A is the ultimate wrinkle reducer when applied topically and when taken internally. Topically, vitamin A can help reduce brown spots and smooth wrinkles. While we know that a vitamin A deficiency is not common in developed countries, it is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps increase cellular function. It can also be useful in treating acne because of its ability to decrease the size of sebaceous glands.

2. Vitamin C
Known as a powerful free-radical fighter, when taken orally, vitamin C assists tissue growth, collagen formation and wound healing making it the perfect addition to any anti-aging regimen. Applied topically, it helps smooth rough patches and stimulate collagen production. Keep in mind, that while vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, it gets “spent” easily. Pycnogenol is known to recharge vitamin C so it can continue its work. Theraderm’s OPC Reparative Gel is the topical solution to that issue.

3. Vitamin K
Taking vitamin K orally is a great way to support your favorite eye cream in the reduction of dark circles. Be careful, though, this doesn’t mean you need to take as much as possible. In fact, take the smallest recommended dose you can. It may also be helpful in diminishing the appearance of spider veins when applied topically.

4. Vitamin E
Not only is vitamin E a powerful antioxidant, it also helps your skin retain precious natural oils keeping skin hydrated. Taken internally, vitamin E is excellent at preventing oxidative damage and protecting cell membranes which keeps skin pliable and younger lookiing.

5. Vitamin B3
Vitamin B3 or niacin, is essential in the metabolism of fat and proteins. Not only does this help the skin retain moisture, it also fortifies the skin barrier making it less susceptible to wrinkling.

Add another layer to your anti-aging arsenol. Take care of your skin from the inside out with these 5 key vitamins.