Which Deficiency Causes Dry Skin? Know 6 Vitamins And Minerals To Consider!

Dry skin can be frustrating at times and uncomfortable, often linked to deficiencies in required vitamins and minerals. Dry skin, also known as xerosis, is primarily caused by a lack of water. Although environmental factors such as cold weather, low humidity, and harsh soaps can cause dry skin, malnutrition also plays a role. Thus, understanding the specific nutrients that help maintain skin health can help address and prevent dryness. Ensuring an adequate intake of these required nutrients can support your skin's natural barrier function.

This blog explores the common causes of dry skin due to nutritional deficiencies and highlights six key vitamins and minerals vital for keeping the skin hydrated, supple, and healthy. So, let’s begin!

Table Of Contents

1. Which Vitamin Deficiency Causes Dry Skin?

2. Dietitian’s Recommendation

3. The Final Say

4. FAQs

5. References

Which Deficiency Causes Dry Skin?

Consider these vitamins and minerals to fulfil the nutritional requirements of your deficiency levels:

1. Vitamin A

It is necessary for healthy skin as it promotes the production and growth of skin cells and significantly affects skin healing. It aids in producing sebum, the skin’s natural oil, which keeps it hydrated and prevents dryness. Vitamin A deficiency can negatively cause dry, flaky skin and serious conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

Thus, foods rich in vitamin A are recommended, including carrots, sweet potatoes, green leafy vegetables, and animal-derived sources like eggs. Topical retinoids, derived from vitamin A, are also commonly used to treat acne-prone skin and improve skin texture.

2. Vitamin C

This significant antioxidant helps protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and unstable molecules that can harm cells. It is also important for synthesising collagen, an essential protein that helps maintain skin elasticity and moisture and speeds up wound healing. Vitamin C deficiency can cause the skin to become dry, hard, and dull, leading to slower wound healing and increased skin ageing.

Citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, broccoli, and spinach are great sources of vitamin C . Topical vitamin C serums are popular for their brightening and anti-ageing effects.

Also Read: 7 Recommended Multivitamins For Men To Fulfill Their Nutritional Needs!

3. Vitamin E

This is another antioxidant that helps protect the skin against oxidative damage from environmental concerns such as UV radiation and pollution. It also helps maintain the skin's moisture and integrity by supporting the lipid barrier. Vitamin E deficiency can cause dry, itchy skin and may contribute to conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

Nuts, a variety of seeds, fresh green vegetables, and vegetable oils are good sources of vitamin E. Many skincare products contain vitamin E due to its moisturising and healing properties.

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential oils that help maintain the skin's lipid barrier. This barrier is crucial for keeping skin hydrated and protected against external irritants. Omega-3 fatty acids also have required anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce redness and irritation. Not opting for trusted and natural omega-3 sources leads to deficiency, can cause dry and scaly skin, and is associated with dermatitis.

Oily fish, like fresh salmon, mackerel pieces, sardines, and plant sources like walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 supplements are also available for those who do not consume enough through their diet.

Also Read: Know 9 Multivitamins For Women To Fulfill Specific Nutritional Needs!

5. Zinc

This required mineral plays an important role in skin health. It helps with protein synthesis and cell division, which are necessary for skin healing and renewal. Zinc also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, effectively treating acne and preventing infections. Zinc deficiency can cause conditions such as dryness, itching, and dermatitis and can slow down wound healing.

Nuts, beans, seeds, meat, and shellfish are good sources of zinc. Topical zinc formulations, such as zinc oxide creams, are commonly used to treat diaper rash and minor skin irritations.

6. Biotin

Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is part of the B complex vitamins that are important for skin health. It plays a role in the metabolism of fatty acids required for maintaining healthy skin. Biotin deficiency causes dry, scaly skin and can lead to seborrheic dermatitis and hair loss.

Eggs, nuts, whole grains, and legumes are rich in biotin. Biotin supplements are often marketed for improving the health of skin, hair, and nails, although deficiencies are relatively rare.

Also Read: Understanding 6 Important Types Of Nutrients And Their Sources

Dietitian’s Recommendation

Dry skin is mainly caused due to deficiency of vitamins A, C, E, biotin, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. Add all-in-one skin solution products like ToneOp Care’s Skin 360 tablets and foods like green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, nuts, seeds, oily fish, and whole grains to your diet to keep your skin hydrated.

                                                                   Health Expert Akshata Gandevikar

The Final Say

Ultimately, maintaining a healthy diet containing vitamins A, C, E, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and biotin is important to prevent drying of the skin. By ensuring you get enough nutrients, you can support the overall health of your layered skin cells and maintain its moisture and elasticity. If you think a poor diet may be causing dry skin, consider consulting a doctor for personalised advice and guidance.