A pill you can swallow to turn back the clock? *swipes credit card vigorously*. Anti-aging vitamins and supplements are fast becoming our personal favorite daily ritual, but is there more to these smart-capsules than meets the eye?
In this article we discuss the following:
- Do Anti-Aging Supplements Work?
- Anti-Aging Supplements
- Anti-Aging Before and After
- Best Anti-Aging Supplements on the Market
- Best Anti Aging Supplements Reviews
- Best Vitamin for Anti-Aging
- Anti-Aging Supplements on Amazon
Do Anti-Aging Vitamins and Supplements Work?
Ever-evolving studies are slowly discovering that certain supplements make for some of the best anti aging secrets on the planet. Before you get ahead of yourself, it’s not quite as simple as an anti aging pill. Instead, these are simply everyday vitamins and minerals that just happen to be instrumental in either slowing or reversing the phenomenon of aging.
Forget the best anti aging supplements 2021, we’ve got 2022’s list and it’s a force to be reckoned with. First things first, however… do anti-aging supplements actually work?
Dr. Veera Gupta, of Optimum Health Chiropractic, is of the opinion that the phrase anti-aging should rather be called antioxidants. “Aging is a direct response of cell damage which happens in the form of free radicals, which then injure the cell’s DNA and its telomeres.”
She elaborates by explaining that “when a cell divides, they divide into two newly injured cells. Those cells divide and the chain of injury keeps going, getting worse with each generation.”
What Vitamins are Good for Aging Skin?
There are many, many supplements that reverse aging. Dr. Veera Gupta gave us her personal favorites: “The strongest antioxidant that we have on the market is called glutathione and it’s good for everyone who doesn’t have a sulfur allergy. It is a relatively hard molecule to get into the cell and so my favorite product is Trisomal Glutathione by the company Apex.”
“The second product I would recommend is turmeric, and in micronized form it is hundreds of times more absorbable. My two favorites products are Curamed 750mg which comes in the capsule and Tumero XL by Apex which is a liquid bottle,” says Dr, Veera.
Aside from these two generous contributions, the list goes on to include vitamin C, E, D, B12, zinc, collagen, omega 3, astaxanthin and others. Don’t worry, we’ll dig deeper into each one shortly!
Vitamin C for Anti-Aging
Vitamin C is one of those die hard healthy aging supplements that your grandparent’s generation have been pushing for decades. Only now is science catching up to show exactly how vitamin C could be helping the aging process, even though most people are simply taking it for improved immunity.
For more on this trusty vitamin, we chatted to Cindy Jones (Ph.D) from the Sagescript Institute. “In my opinion, vitamin C is the most important anti-aging food, supplement or skin care ingredient. Besides being a strong antioxidant, vitamin C is an essential for the body to make collagen. Collagen is the support system for skin and as we age, it decreases which causes wrinkles to form.”
Vitamin E for Anti-Aging
Vitamin E is another supplement with scientifically proven anti-aging ingredients. One commonly finds vitamin E on offer as either an oral supplement, or a topical solution. The skin loves vitamin E, and the oils are suitable for use across the whole body.
Alexis Martinez is the CEO of Healthy Brown Girl, and advocates for this vitamin in particular. “Also known as alpha-tocopherol, vitamin E is also an antioxidant that protects the body from free radicals and cellular aging. Vitamin E is also excellent at preventing inflammation, wrinkles, dark spots, and can brighten skin to make skin look more youthful.”
It’s perfectly okay to use a vitamin E oil on the outside of your body, while taking an oral vitamin E supplement at the same time. The results could be quite noteworthy, in fact, and this dynamic duo is definitely something that science will need to take a closer look at in the coming years.
Selenium for Anti-Aging
Read any article on reverse aging supplements and you’ll find selenium is mentioned every time. Selenium is a potent antioxidant that works to fight oxidative stress. While it helps your body’s defense against chronic conditions, such as heart disease and cancer, this is also a wonderful substance to use in an anti-aging skin routine.
Selenium has the ability to neutralize free radicals that would otherwise break down your cells and affect the overall appearance of your skin. Cindy Jones, who we heard from earlier, highlighted the importance of antioxidants, like selenium, to any age-conscious supplement program. “Antioxidants can help repair damage to the skin caused by UV radiation. Antioxidants can be found in green tea and in many herbs. Calendula is one antioxidant rich herb we use in skin care,” said Jones.
Vitamin A for Anti-Aging
Many regard vitamin A as the #1 anti aging supplement out there, though this is constantly up for public debate. Vitamin A is an essential micronutrient which relatively all living organisms need for the proper functioning of its/their metabolism.
For this reason, it becomes important to note that the science of this vitamin is currently backing it as more effective in reducing/preventing the aging of eyes and bones, and not necessarily the skin itself. That said, who doesn’t want healthier eyes and bones? Seems just as, if not more, important than simply having younger looking skin!
Vitamin A is also found in both topical and oral forms. Oral supplements would be more effective for the purpose of anti-aging eye and bone treatment, while topical variations would be more effective as they are placed directly on the skin. Never wear topical vitamin A when out in daylight. This can be incredibly damaging to your skin and do a lot more aging-damage than good. Use topical vitamin A just before bed, and don’t leave the house the next day until you have showered it off!
Vitamin C vs Vitamin A
Out of the two latest anti aging supplements, what is the real difference between vitamin A and vitamin C. Well for starters, only the latter of the two is an antioxidant. Vitamin C is instrumental to human health, while vitamin A is necessary though not as much of a concern for most people.
Vitamin C is also a water-soluble vitamin, while vitamin A is a fat-soluble one. This simply means that they are stored in the fat cells of the body, and although it needs to be topped up regularly, it works for the body from a cellular level as opposed to via fluids.
Oral vitamin A and C can be consumed simultaneously, however topical versions of these vitamins are not suitable for dual use. Vitamin A should be used at night, while vitamin C should be used in the morning time.
Zinc for Anti-Aging
Zinc is a praise-worthy mineral, and it basically keeps humankind from going extinct… no big deal. More and more research is being done on zinc as a force against aging, and with very interesting results.
Martha Carlos from Orly PR, gave us her take on this important substance. “Zinc is a skin powerhouse, alleviating redness, inflammation and irritation associated with acne and
rosacea and other skin conditions. It also reduces both the severity of acne and any resulting scarring and helps alleviate melasma. Zinc is also needed for the production of both collagen and keratin; both important proteins in the skin that affect the aging process.”
Essentially, zinc prevents wrinkles from forming at the molecular level; as far as anti-aging vitamins and supplements go, this is pretty astounding. Always take care when supplementing zinc; too much can bring some unpleasant side effects, while too little can render the whole endeavor completely void, wasting your precious time and money!
What is the Best Ingredient for Aging Skin?
When it really comes down to it, there’s really no way of saying which individual ingredient in anti aging capsules is the best for all aging skin types. Skin ages for an array of different reasons, and depending on the person in question, different ingredients may affect their biological clock differently to how it might affect another.
Sometimes skin is aged due to excessive sun damage. In this instance, ingredients that support UV damage would be the best option. Sometimes skin is aged due to a poor diet, and in this instance, supplements that correct the balance of nutrients in the body would work best.
It’s really about figuring out what your biggest triggers are, and then finding the best possible ingredients thereafter. We took this further with the help of Sarah Anderson, a functional medicine nurse practitioner specializing in anti-aging. She gave us her top ingredients for a successful anti-aging regimen:
Bone Broth
Bone broth is rich in collagen, vitamins, and minerals that are lost as we age. It helps reduce wrinkles and dry skin and nourishes our body and gut.
Resveratrol
Resveratrol is a compound found in red grapes and has shown to promote longevity, and can be taken as a supplement.
Aspartic Acid
Aspartic Acid helps your gut bacteria make and produce NAD. NAD is a compound that our body utilizes and helps support metabolism, detoxification, as well as repair DNA and muscle, and mitochondrial function.
Sarah added that other non-supplement things she recommends to her clients are staying hydrated, doing daily detoxification of chemicals in their environment that cause damage to DNA, and always wearing sunscreen when outside.
What is the Best Supplement for Aging Skin?
Looking for anti aging supplements that work isn’t always as easy as popping pills at a stipulated time each day, and waiting for the results to show. You see, vitamins and minerals are precarious things within the body, in that sometimes even if you have enough of one thing, the body itself is unable to absorb or synthesize it in a beneficial way.
This is why so many supplements are best taken in addition to others that can help with absorption, making them more effective for the individual in question. Erik Pham is the managing editor over at Health Canal and is passionate about this subject.
“When it comes to anti-aging supplements, I recommend those with high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Oxidation is a natural bodily process but too much of it causes oxidative stress which damages the body which speeds up the process of aging,” explains Erik.
He elaborates by pointing out how from their names, one can already guess that antioxidants combat oxidative stress so your body doesn’t suffer from the damage it causes. “The same can be said for anti-inflammatory as it can help reduce unnecessary inflammatory responses of the body which speeds up aging as well.”
With this being said Omega 3 oil-rich foods like fish and antioxidant foods like berries are a great addition to your diet. “What’s great about them is that they are all natural,” says Erik.
Anti-Aging Supplements
Now to dive a bit deeper into these anti aging capsules beauty factors that we’ve opened up for discussion. Anti-aging supplements can come in different shapes and forms, depending on the brand in question. Supplements aren’t always in capsule form. Sometimes, one will supplement through scooped powders that are diluted in water or blended into smoothies. Other supplements come in the form of gummy sweets or edible bars and drinks.
Natural Anti-Aging Supplement
Out of all natural anti aging ingredients, the natural wonders that are vitamin B12 and folate come up most frequently. To better understand the hype, we spoke with Sheldon Zablow (MD), who maintains that this may be the single most important thing to supplement when aging is becoming a concern. “The contributing factor in nine out of ten causes of disability or death is chronic inflammation and the natural/bioactive forms of B12 (methylcobalamin) and folate (L-methylfolate) reduce inflammation. Most supplements contain the poorly manufactured, poorly absorbed synthetic forms.”
Zablow adds that these micronutrients are the most essential of the essential vitamins, required in optimal amounts for all other vitamins and therapeutic treatments to work beneficially. “You can take plenty of vitamin D and calcium, but if you do not have enough B12 and folate, you will still develop osteoporosis.”
Why does this happen? According to Sheldon, if there is a deficiency of B12 and folate, then the toxic waste product homocysteine builds up, which leads to chronic inflammation of the cells (endothelial) lining blood vessels and thickens the blood leading to an increase in heart disease and strokes. “B vitamins increase energy production, improve mood, help create red blood cells, improve hair and skin health, enhance memory, and maintain a healthy immune system.”
Anti-Aging Dietary Supplements
When it comes to diet, anti aging herbs and oils can make for very effective natural supplements, according to widespread anti aging supplements research! One of the best supplements to add to your diet is fish oils in the form of omega 3.
No one knows omega 3 quite like Jeff Hong, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist RDN and skincare formulator, who maintains that krill oil is one of the top supplements for anyone wanting to cling to their youth. “Omega-3 fatty acids are key ingredients in krill oil, and they boast plenty of anti-aging benefits. Not only is it good for our cardiovascular health, it is also helpful in preventing memory loss!”
Anti-Aging Antioxidant Supplements
Jeff is also pretty clued when it comes to coenzyme Q10 anti aging, and added that coenzyme Q10 is a naturally occurring and potent antioxidant that is vital to cell functioning. “It has the potential to mitigate various diseases related to aging, such as cardiovascular disease, Parkinson’s, and even hearing loss.”
If only it were that simple, however. Dr. Carrie Lam brought it to our attention that the skin is constantly fighting a battle between pro-oxidants, such as free radicals, and regular antioxidants, which the body makes. “Unfortunately, the amount of antioxidants your body produces to fight these pro-oxidants is generally insufficient. A diet rich in antioxidants will help. However, fortifying the body with oral supplementation will further reduce the aging effects of oxidants commonly found in our environment, which include the sun’s rays, pollution, poor diet, and stress.”
Dr. Lam went on to share her take on the optimal level of oral intake of basic anti-aging vitamins. These should include:
- 500 – 3,000 mg of vitamin C
- 300 – 800 IU of vitamin E
- 5,000 – 15,000 IU of beta carotene (which is converted to vitamin A in the body)
- 100 – 200 mcg of selenium
- 500 – 1,000 mg of magnesium
- 500 mg of calcium
- 100 – 200 mcg of chromium
Anti-Aging Before and After
One can always take some time to scour the internet for before and after images of individuals who claim to have benefited from one anti-aging regimen or another. The trouble is that it becomes very, very difficult to isolate a specific supplement as the reason for improved signs of aging.
Someone could absolutely be seeing results from a daily omega 3 supplement, for example, but they could also very well have changed moisturizers around the same time, or started cooking with more oils; all of which could be responsible for the newfound changes to some degree.
More than this, there are sometimes also anti aging pills side effects, so not all before and after imagery are of the positive end of the spectrum. With these kinds of treatments, it’s best to just devise your own game plan, document your changes, and discern for yourself over the course of 3 to 6 months (at least!).
Best Anti-Aging Supplements on the Market
Let’s look at a few scientifically proven anti aging supplements that you could add to your self-care routine, like, tomorrow!
Best Anti-Aging Supplements for Women
Pure Synergy SuperPure® Astaxanthin
This particular supplement was recommended to us by Martha Carlos, who we spoke to earlier on in this article. Known for being one of the strongest antioxidants available, this is a product to take a closer look at. “Also known as Antioxidant-Rich Skin Food, SuperPure® Astaxanthin is one of the strongest natural antioxidants on the planet and provides the ultimate in eye, brain and cardiovascular support, while also promoting healthy skin tone, texture, elasticity, and moisture level,” says Martha.
Made with organic algae, this supplement can be taken once or twice daily, depending on your desired intensity. One bundle contains 60 capsules, which will either last you a month or two (depending on the dose you choose). Coming in at around $30 a pop, this is considerably affordable given the quality and effectiveness of the ingredients.
Best Natural Anti-Aging Supplements
THE AGE HACK NMN
First thing’s first, what exactly is NMN? Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) belongs to the family of organic molecules found naturally in most of the foods we eat on a daily basis. In terms of anti aging for men, this supplement is considered to be somewhat vital, and we’ve been particularly impressed with this rendition by The Age Hack brand.
Jeff Hong from our earlier discussion had something to add when it comes to this compound. “Though research is still going to find out more about its effectiveness, studies done until now have found NMN is capable of reversing aging. Also, it:
- Works to reduce lines and wrinkles
- Has properties to prevent cognitive decline
- Keeps the skin hydrated
- Improves complexion
- Reduces sebum
Unfortunately, quality NMN doesn’t come cheap. You’re looking at close to $200 for a month’s supply. The Age Hack offers better rates if you buy in bulk via their website.
Best Anti Aging Supplements Reviews
We’re going to kick this section off with the wise words of Arielle Levitan (MD), co-founder of Vous Vitamin. “The most important thing in looking toward the right vitamins to slow the aging process is to take an individualized approach.”
We encourage all of our readers to keep this simple yet profound line in mind when referring to internet reviews about specific supplements and brands. The anti-aging journey is a subjective one; no two people are going to share the very same aging process. Use public reviews to get a better idea of quality, customer service and overall impression of the brand in question; don’t use them to discern whether or not a specific product is going to work for you or not. “A personalized multivitamin based on an individual’s diet, lifestyle and health history is the best way to ensure you support a graceful aging process,” says Arielle — and ain’t that the truth?
Best Vitamin for Anti-Aging
Staying with Arielle, this is a great segway into our segment on the best vitamins for anti-aging. Arielle took the time to tell us of the importance of vitamin D3, for both men and women. “As a physician and vitamin expert I would suggest vitamin D3 as one of the key vitamins to maintain bodily functions and longevity. Vitamin D3 is essential to bone health, muscle strength, memory & brain function and more,” explains Arielle.
This sets the stage for the following high quality vitamins that remain the best of the best in terms of their anti aging nutrients.
Best Vitamins for Dry Aging Skin
Lamelle Ovelle Vitamin D3
No brand has impressed us more on the full spectrum of natural skincare than that of Lamelle. Based in South Africa, their products are available worldwide and offer a dynamic, effective take on anti-aging and other skin-visual concerns.
Still not sold on D3 as the solution? Another expert in anti aging vitamins and minerals for skin is Judson Somerville (MD), and he too stresses the importance of vitamin D3. “Vitamin D3 is the most effective anti-aging supplement. It’s a hormone, not a vitamin, and extends life by improving health.”
Judson explains how the key is the blood levels. Approximately 40% of people are deficient based on the low blood levels the government gives. However, based on most experts almost everyone is deficient. In addition 30+% of people and 40+% of obese people have genetic defects in the cells ability to make use of vitamin D3.
“Vitamin D3 is critical to sleep, metabolism and immune system function. For example, in my experience of how powerful vitamin D3 is, in treating thousands of people with optimal blood levels, none ever contracted the flu again. Every time one is ill, no matter how minor, it shortens one’s life. Improved sleep quality results in better healing and mental health. Better metabolism ie gut health the less inflammation. Inflammation leads to diabetes, cancer and dementia,” adds Judson.
Best Anti-Aging Vitamins for Women
Metagenics HerSynergy®
Soon to be one of the top rated anti aging supplements (mark our words), this powerhouse of a product is made by the wonder team at Metagenics. HerSynergy is a specially formulated supplement intended to connect you with your wild feminine side, both in the bedroom and in daily life. Packed with natural, food-based ingredients like B vitamins, magnesium, zinc, and combined with the herbal potency of Fenugreek, this really is an all in one anti aging supplement.
Libido is something that many women lose with age, so bringing this element back into balance sets the stage for other anti-aging effects to come to fruition. The supplement contains the all important B12 which, as we learnt earlier, if there is a deficiency thereof, then the toxic waste product homocysteine builds up, which leads to chronic inflammation of the cells and, inevitably, aging.
If there’s one brand to trust when it comes to women’s health, it’s Metagenics. Browse the rest of their range of vitamin supplements and you’ll find all you could possibly need to get your journey on track.
Anti-Aging Supplements on Amazon
Just about any vitamin or mineral supplement you can think of will be available on the e-commerce giant that is Amazon. Normally when it comes to buying supplements, we recommend purchasing directly from the brand in question where possible. This is because supplements can usually be bought in bulk at discounted prices when one goes directly to the source. That said, not all brands are able to ship worldwide as easily and quickly as Amazon often can.
Another perk of buying health-based products off of Amazon is that one can take full advantage of the public feedback section that all sellers have to comply with. This is where you sift the real from the fake, and the lousy from the quality. If a seller is untrustworthy, you’ll know within minutes of reading the public feedback; sellers have no control over this section and cannot remove negative comments.
Did You Enjoy This Article?
If you enjoyed this article, you might also like our other articles discussing skin care such as: Best Vitamins and Supplements for Skin, Top 14 Skin Care Ingredients to Avoid and Best Natural Anti-Aging Skincare.