Why Dermatologists Recommend Using Vitamin D for Dry, Itchy Skin from Now Until April
Our bodies benefit greatly from vitamin D. Consuming it helps maintain strong bones, a healthy heart, and stable moods. Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, highlights the significant impact of applying vitamin D topically on your skin, especially during the winter when skin tends to be drier, itchier, and more irritated than usual.
“Vitamin D has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a valuable skin-care ingredient,” explains Dr. Garshick. “In fact, there are prescription vitamin D analogs commonly used for skin conditions like psoriasis. It is also believed to offer antioxidant benefits that can combat free-radical damage.”
A 2020 study confirmed the anti-inflammatory benefits of vitamin D, making it an ideal solution for the dryness and itching typically experienced during this season. “Skin is prone to more inflammation during the winter months due to the impaired skin barrier caused by lower humidity in the air,” stated Caren Campbell, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in California.
Furthermore, the study noted that applied topically, vitamin D provides various anti-aging and skin-protective effects. While there aren’t numerous vitamin D skin-care products available, we have compiled a list of a few below to help you experience the ingredient’s skin-soothing and protective properties. However, it’s essential to remember that applying vitamin D to your skin is not a substitute for taking an oral supplement if recommended due to a vitamin D deficiency, as emphasized by Dr. Garshick.
5 Vitamin D Skin-Care Products
“This serum, containing various essential vitamins from A to F, aids in brightening and hydrating the skin, suitable for all skin types,” explains Dr. Garshick. “It helps diminish signs of skin aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.”
The star ingredient in this moisturizer is vitamin D, which deeply moisturizes the skin while enhancing its tone and flexibility. The formula also features Gooseberry extract that brightens the skin, leaving it looking radiant.
“This neck-firming cream, enriched with vitamins, also aids in hydrating, softening, and soothing the skin,” says Dr. Garshick. “It includes hyaluronic acid and rice bran oil for additional hydration and calming of irritation.”
This potent formula combines provitamin D3, lipids, and botanicals to brighten your complexion. It also includes vitamin E for strengthening and balancing the skin barrier, as well as hyaluronic acid for plumping, firming, and hydrating benefits.
“Although not pure vitamin D, this serum contains chronocyclin, a type of chronopeptide that replicates the antioxidant benefits of vitamin D, supporting a healthy skin barrier and leaving your skin glowing,” explains Dr. Garshick. It also includes bronze pigment for an instant skin glow.
