The 8 Best Vitamins for Skin, According to Dermatologists
As with any type of supplement, though, keep in mind these aren’t miracle cures—and many only work if you have an existing deficiency. “Supplements work best as part of a balanced diet, proper sleep, hydration, and daily SPF,” warns Dr. Gohara. “Without that foundation, even the best capsule can only do so much.”
Of course, not all formulas are created equal, and sifting through the jargon (and often overblown marketing claims) can be daunting. That’s why we turned to Dr. Gohara and Dr. Gerstner—along with fellow dermatologists Dr. Lauren Moy and Dr. Hallie McDonald—to cut through the noise and share which supplements actually deliver on their promises. Whether you’re dealing with sun damage, acne, dryness, or just want a low-effort way to boost your glow, these expert-approved picks are a solid place to start. And once you’ve scrolled through the list, don’t forget to check out their answers to more of your most pressing questions below.
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Three of our dermatologists named this as the best supplement for UV protection—and one of the best skin supplements on the market overall. “This is one of the few oral antioxidants with strong clinical evidence supporting its ability to reduce UV-induced skin damage,” says Dr. Moy. Starring niacin and patented Fernblock extract, “it helps strengthen the skin barrier while offering antioxidant and photoprotective benefits. Additionally, it increases the skin’s DNA repair enzymes, helping reduce melasma, sensitivity, and redness after prolonged sun exposure.” While not a replacement for daily SPF, Dr. Gohara notes, “think of it as your sunscreen’s internal partner.”
Dr. McDonald adds that she routinely recommends oral niacinamide to her patients, as it’s “safe, well-tolerated, and evidence-based, which is rare in the supplement world.” She references a landmark study published in The New England Journal of Medicine showing that taking 500 mg of niacinamide twice daily can reduce the development of new non-melanoma skin cancers by 23 percent over 12 months.
Key ingredients: Niacin, Fernblock PLE Extract (Polypodium leucotomos)
Form: Capsule
Serving size: Two capsules per day
Supply: 60 days
Certifications: GMP registered
Customer review: “I am very fair-skinned. My dermatologist told me to try this product. I took it while on vacation in the sun four to six hours a day. No sunburn!!! I also wore sunscreen, but this product is a game-changer! I’ve told all my friends and family about it.”
Pros
- Helps with moisture and luminosity
- Users report non-gritty texture
Cons
- May take weeks to see results
Dr. Moy is also a fan of this superfood-enriched powder. “I love it because it’s affordable and packed with probiotics that promote healthier skin from the inside out—and it’s easy to drink throughout the day!”
The third-party-tested formula also contains hydrolyzed collagen, which some research indicates may help improve skin hydration and elasticity, plus vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and omega-3 fatty acids. “These can help calm inflammation and lock in moisture for a supple glow,” adds Dr. Gohara.
Key ingredients: collagen peptides, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, probiotics
Form: Powder
Serving size: One scoop
Supply: 30 days
Certification: USP-certified, third-party tested
Customer review: “A few months postpartum, I’ve been looking for something to help my skin bounce back, keep my digestion regular, and add extra nutrients while breastfeeding. This daily powdered drink is just what I was looking for. The collagen and hyaluronic acid give my skin a much-needed elasticity boost and the superfood ingredients make me feel like I’m getting plenty of nutrients. And it tastes and smells SO good.”
Pros
- Melatonin-free
- Melts in your mouth
Cons
- Not as fast-acting as prescription sleep aids
There’s a reason that after a restless night, you wake up to dull skin, dark circles, and breakouts that somehow look worse. “Cell repair and regeneration occur during deep sleep, and skin cells regenerate best at night,” explains Dr. Gerstner. “A good, restful night’s sleep makes one’s skin glow,” she adds.
To help prevent tossing and turning—and keep your complexion looking bright and healthy—she recommends Boiron’s sleep aid tablets. Instead of melatonin, these feature a blend of plant-based actives designed to help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. The tablets are also dissolvable, making them an easy option even for the pill-averse.
Key ingredients: Hyoscyamus niger 3C HPUS, nux moschata 4C HPUS, passiflora incarnata 3X HPUS, stramonium 6X HPUS
Form: Tablet
Serving size: Two at bedtime
Supply: 30 days
Certifications: N/A
Customer review: “Some nights my mind will not slow down and I can’t get to sleep. These SleepCalm meltaways work great for me. I get a good night’s rest and am fully awake in the morning. No grogginess.”
Pros
- High in nourishing omega oils
- Easy pump dispenser
Cons
- Pricey
“Omega oils—especially 3, 6, and 9—are fatty acids that support skin and hair health,” says Dr. Gerstner. “They strengthen the skin barrier, help retain moisture, and have anti-inflammatory effects, leaving skin looking plumper and more radiant.”
She highlights this omega-rich supplement from Cymbiotika, which includes varieties like sea buckthorn and evening primrose oil to fortify and nourish the complexion. It also contains astaxanthin—a red pigment found in algae—to help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Key ingredients: Canadian omega-3 DHA, EPA, evening primrose oil, seabuckthorn oil, Icelandic astaxanthin, phosphatidylcholine
Form: Liquid
Serving size: 12 pumps daily
Supply: 2.0 fl. oz
Certification: GMP certified
Customer review: “I’m still on my first month taking the Omegas. I feel like it gives my skin a little more glow and moisture, which is no easy task for a 56-year-old menopausal woman. I also notice a slight energy boost each day, too!”
Pros
- Works to plump and brighten
- Natural flavors
Cons
- Some may prefer a softer gummy
These fan-favorite gummies are packed with skin-loving ingredients that probably already appear in your top-shelf staples. “For hydration and radiance, Olly Glowing Skin gummies combine hyaluronic acid, collagen, and vitamin C to plump and brighten from within,” says Dr. Gohara. You won’t find any synthetic flavors or dyes here—but you will find antioxidant-rich sea buckthorn for extra brightening and nourishing benefits.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, collagen, and vitamin C, sea buckthorn
Form: Gummy
Serving size: Two gummies daily
Supply: 25 days
Certifications: B-Corp certified
Customer review: “These beauty supplements actually work! When I first tried them, I didn’t have high expectations, but after about a month of consistent use, I started noticing visible improvements. My skin looked more hydrated and radiant, and even my hair appeared healthier and shinier.”
Pros
- Supports collagen production
- Natural fruity flavors
Cons
- Should be consumed within a month after opening
“Sea moss is rich in amino acids and vitamin C, which the body uses to produce collagen,” says Dr. Gerstner. “It’s also a humectant, meaning it pulls moisture into the skin.”
Available in 10 flavors, this best-selling, Gerstner-approved ingestible uses natural additives like fruit purées and concentrates to go down easy—and do better by your body. Some studies even suggest its key ingredient may act as a prebiotic to support digestion. Eat it by the spoonful, or mix it into everything from smoothies and soups to salads, sandwiches, and even desserts for a feel-good kick.
Key ingredients: Dehydrated sea moss, monk fruit juice concentrate, ascorbic acid
Form: Gel
Serving size: N/A
Supply: 16 fl. oz.
Certifications: GMP-certified, gluten-free-certified
Customer review: “I’ll admit I was super skeptical about this, but omg the first week of taking it, I saw my skin was glowing!!! It really does clean your body inside out. I love the pineapple one and can’t wait to try more flavors!”
Pros
- Helps with indigestion and bloating
- Some users reported healthier-looking skin as a result
Cons
- Pricey
Speaking of digestion, Dr. Gerstner emphasizes that “your skin and gut health are deeply connected—this is called the gut-skin axis,” she explains. “When digestion is running smoothly, your skin tends to look calmer, clearer, and more radiant.”
If you’re dealing with indigestion, bloating, or food sensitivities, Dr. Gerstner points to Thorne’s Advanced Digestive Enzymes (though, of course, it’s important to consult your doctor first to determine the root cause and whether this supplement is right for you). Developed by licensed health professionals, the formula features science-backed ingredients like hydrochloric acid, pepsin, and pancreatin to support proper food breakdown and enhance nutrient absorption.
Key ingredients: Hydrochloric acid, pepsin, pancreatin, ox bile
Form: Capsule
Serving size: 1-2 capsules daily with a meal
Supply: 90-180 days
Certifications: GMP-certified
Customer review: “I felt very tired, my skin and hair looked dull and frizzy, and I was bloated because I wasn’t digesting food properly and getting the nutrients I needed. Since I bought this supplement, I have used the restroom more frequently, my skin and hair have improved a lot, and I feel more energetic with less brain fog.”
Pros
- Helps with stress-related breakouts
- Designed to soothe the nerves
Cons
- Not a large supply
It’s an all-too common scenario: You’re nervous about an upcoming presentation or meeting the in-laws, and, of course, a pimple inconveniently pops up front and center on the big day. While stress doesn’t directly cause acne, it can trigger the release of cortisol, a hormone that stimulates oil production in the sebaceous glands—which can clog pores and lead to breakouts. “Controlling one’s cortisol helps limit acne, rosacea, and inflammation from eczema and psoriasis,” explains Dr. Gerstner. “High cortisol levels also increase enzymes that degrade collagen and elastin.”
To that end, she recommends Integrative Therapeutics’ Cortisol Manager, which aims to calm stress and anxiety using adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha and the amino acid L-theanine. Technically formulated as a sleep supplement, it’s best taken before bedtime.
Key ingredients: Ashwagandha extract, L-theanine, magnolia extract
Form: Capsule
Serving size: 1-2 tablets at bedtime
Supply: 15-30 days
Certification: N/A
Customer review: “I started these supplements about a week ago, and they are definitely working! I went through a really stressful period in my life and my face began breaking out in really bad cystic acne, like it did a long time ago in college. My skin is almost crystal clear again for the first time in five months. I’ve also noticed I handle high-level stress situations at work much better.”
Can vitamins actually help your skin?
All of our experts agree that supplements may help to some degree—but mostly if you have a deficiency. “Most supplements and vitamins today lack robust trials showing meaningful improvements in skin health and appearance,” warns Dr. McDonald. “Patients often expect visible change, but the studies are small, endpoints are subjective, and effects are generally lost once usage is stopped. My approach is to support patients who want to experiment with supplements, but I’m always clear that these aren’t magic pills. Protecting your skin from UV exposure and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will do far more than most supplements on the market.”
For Dr. Gerstner, the best approach is choosing supplements that don’t make bold claims about skin health but instead support overall well-being. “I’m tempted by supplements myself, but I stick to ones that improve my sleep and digestion—because when those are in check, my skin naturally looks better,” she notes.
Which vitamins are most beneficial for skin health?
For sun and anti-aging protection
“Some studies show that niacinamide and vitamins C, D, and E may help protect against UV damage,” says Dr. Moy. “Antioxidants such as Polypodium leucotomos, coenzyme Q10, astaxanthin, and polyphenols may also assist in anti-aging and photoprotection.”
For breakouts
“Zinc and omega-3 fatty acids may be useful for the treatment of acne, as they help decrease inflammation and regulate oil production,” notes Dr. Moy. According to Dr. McDonald, “Probiotics may also help by balancing the gut and skin microbiome, reducing inflammation, and limiting the growth of acne-associated bacteria. Some studies show that certain strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium can modestly decrease inflammatory lesions and improve overall skin clarity. However, results are strain-specific and not universal, so probiotics should be considered an adjunct to established acne therapies—such as topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or prescription medications—rather than a standalone solution.”
For luminosity and hydration
“Vitamin A regulates cell turnover, improving smoothness and clarity,” says Dr. Gohara. “Low levels of vitamin D are also linked with dryness and inflammation. Iron, B12, and folate help deliver oxygen to cells and support healthy cell growth—deficiencies can lead to pale or sallow complexions—while niacinamide (vitamin B3) can help strengthen the skin barrier, even tone, and regulate oil from the inside out.”
Are there any certifications I should look for?
“The supplement industry isn’t regulated the same way pharmaceuticals are, which means consumers really do have to do a bit of detective work,” explains Dr. McDonald. “When evaluating an oral supplement, I always encourage patients to look for independent, third-party certifications, such as USP, NSF, ConsumerLab, BSCG, or Informed-Choice. These seals help confirm that what’s on the label is actually in the bottle and that the product has been tested for purity, potency, and contaminants like heavy metals or microbes.”
“It’s also important that the brand follows Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), which ensure the product is produced in a clean, consistent, and quality-controlled environment,” she adds. “Another sign of integrity is transparent labeling, meaning you should see exact doses of active ingredients rather than vague ‘proprietary blends.’”
“From a medical standpoint, I also tell patients to focus on supplements that are supported by human clinical studies, not just lab or animal data. For skin health, look for products that have been tested in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) showing measurable improvements in things like hydration, elasticity, or photoprotection. And finally, even ‘natural’ ingredients can have risks, so always check the safety profile and dosing, especially for fat-soluble vitamins or minerals like zinc, which can cause issues in excess or in certain health conditions.”
More need-to-knows
“Some studies suggest that oral collagen supplements (particularly hydrolyzed collagen) may help skin hydration and elasticity, while other papers disagree,” says Dr. Loy. “A recent meta-analysis of 23 randomized controlled trials found that studies supporting collagen supplements were more likely to be lower quality and funded by pharmaceutical companies, and higher quality studies with other funding sources did not find any benefit from collagen supplementation. There is also a risk that oral collagen supplements made from marine sources could be contaminated with methylmercury.”
Dr. Gerstner also notes that some herbal supplements, like turmeric and ashwagandha, have been linked to potential liver damage. Always do your research and talk to your health care provider first to determine whether a supplement is safe and beneficial for you. They can also help ensure it doesn’t conflict with any underlying medical conditions or medications you’re currently taking.
How We Chose
Lots of supplement brands talk a big game about health and wellness, and it takes a discerning eye to separate science-backed facts from fiction. With so little regulation in the supplement market, it can also be tough to know what to look for when it comes to quality, safety, and efficacy. So, I asked four dermatologists to share what you really need to know about taking supplements for skin health—and which ones may actually make a difference. Every product on this list is approved by at least one of them. Drawing on their expertise, I also detailed each product’s key specs, from standout ingredients to special certifications, so you can shop with confidence.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Hallie McDonald is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of ERLY skin care.
Dr. Lauren Moy is a double board-certified cosmetic facial plastic surgeon and dermatologist operating out of Beverly Hills and Torrance, CA.
Dr. Gervaise Gerstner is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and brand expert for Virgin Skin.
Dr. Mona A. Gohara is a board-certified dermatologist and a clinical professor in the Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine.
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As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, beauty writer Sam Peters asked four dermatologists about the potential benefits of supplements for skin and which ones are actually worth adding to cart.
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