Vitamins are organic chemical compounds essential for the proper functioning of the body, including the skin - the largest organ of the human body. In cosmetology, they are playing an increasingly important role as active substances that support skin care, regeneration and protection. Thanks to technological advances, vitamins can be stabilised and effectively used in cosmetic products, influencing both skin aesthetics and skin health.

What are vitamins and how do we classify them?

Vitamins are compounds essential for many metabolic processes. They are mainly divided into two groups according to their solubility:
● Fat-soluble vitamins: A, D, E, K These vitamins are lipophilic, allowing them to be easily absorbed by the epidermis and integrated into the skin's lipid barrier.
● Water-soluble vitamins: C, B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12) They are characterised by their rapid action and are often used in moisturising and soothing cosmetics.

Effect of vitamins in cosmetics.

Each vitamin has specific functions in cosmetics:

Vitamin A (retinol and its derivatives)
● Stimulates cell renewal
● Reduces wrinkles and discolouration
● Strengthens the structure of the dermis

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
● Powerful antioxidant - neutralises free radicals
● Brightens complexion and discolouration
● Promotes collagen synthesis

Vitamin E (tocopherol)
● Acts as an antioxidant
● Protects against UV radiation and environmental factors
● Increases skin elasticity

Vitamin D
Regulates the keratinisation of the epidermis
● Has an anti-inflammatory effect
● Promotes regeneration of dry and atopic skin
B vitamins
● B3 (niacinamide): brightens, regulates sebum production, improves barrier
epidermal
● B5 (panthenol): soothes, moisturises and accelerates healing
● B7 (biotin): strengthens skin, hair and nails

Vitamins in skin care: a multicomponent approach.

A multi-component approach is increasingly being used in cosmetology practice,
consisting of combining different vitamins in a single preparation. Thanks to the synergy of action,
The effects are much more effective than with a single active substance.
Examples of synergies:

● Vitamin C + E + ferulic acid: triple antioxidant protection, increased
stability and effectiveness of the preparation

● Retinol + niacinamide: reduction of retinol side effects, better performance
anti-ageing

● Panthenol + vitamin E: soothing and regenerating irritated skin
This approach also allows personalisation of care - different combinations of vitamins are
applied according to skin type (e.g. dry, acne, sensitive) and problem
dermatology.

Vitamins in cosmetics are not just a fashion accessory, but above all effective
active ingredients with proven biological action. Appropriately selected and
composed, can significantly improve the condition of the skin, protect it from harmful
external factors, as well as slowing down the ageing process. From the point of view of
cosmetologist, knowledge of the mechanisms of action of individual vitamins and their synergies
is the foundation of effective cosmetic care and advice.

Vitamins are organic chemical compounds essential for the proper functioning of the body, including the skin - the largest organ of the human body. In cosmetology, they are playing an increasingly important role as active substances that support skin care, regeneration and protection. Thanks to technological advances, vitamins can be stabilised and effectively used in cosmetic products, influencing both skin aesthetics and skin health.