Skin, Hair & Nails
The beauty-aisle picks, sorted by what the research actually supports. Biotin, collagen, hyaluronic acid, and beauty supplements.
Collagen Peptides
Skin elasticity, joint cartilage support, and muscle mass maintenance in older adults
Biotin
Supports nail firmness and thickness in individuals with brittle nails; evidence for hair growth in healthy individuals is weak.
Hyaluronic Acid
Skin hydration and moisture retention; moderate evidence for improved skin elasticity and wrinkle reduction at 120-240mg/day oral doses over 4-12 weeks.
Astaxanthin
Skin photoprotection, eye fatigue, oxidative stress
Evening Primrose Oil
Cyclical breast pain (mastalgia), menopausal hot flashes, and atopic dermatitis support via gamma-linolenic acid (GLA)
Glutathione
Marketed as the body's master antioxidant for immune support, detoxification, and skin brightening. Oral bioavailability is the central problem and most downstream claims are weak or unproven.
N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG)
Substrate for glycosaminoglycan, hyaluronic acid, and mucin synthesis; preliminary signals for joint comfort, gut barrier support, and skin hyperpigmentation (topical)
Pycnogenol
Supports leg comfort and venous tone in chronic venous insufficiency, healthy blood flow via endothelial function, and skin elasticity at 100-360mg/day of the trademarked Pycnogenol extract.
FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Dietary supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.