In fact, one randomized controlled trial in the journal Nutrients found a relationship between vitamin D insufficiency and dry skin: Researchers discovered that participants with lower vitamin D levels also had lower average skin moisture. “Our finding suggests a relationship between serum vitamin D3 levels and hydration of the stratum corneum [aka, the surface layer of your skin],”* the report reads.
In terms of how, exactly, the vitamin affects skin health, we know that vitamin D has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help protect skin cells.* Plus, vitamin D plays a crucial role in thyroid health as it helps regulate the production of thyroid hormones.* These thyroid hormones play a key role in keeping your hair, skin, and nails youthful and strong (in addition to influencing metabolism, mood, sleep, etc.).
And while we’re on the topic of hair health: “We know that vitamin D is very important for the hair follicle and therefore hair growth,”* says board-certified dermatologist and hair care expert Raechele Cochran Gathers, M.D., on an episode of Clean Beauty School. “In fact, vitamin D is one of the fat-soluble vitamins needed for maintaining and creating functioning hair follicles.”* Add that to the vitamin’s roster of beauty benefits.
