What vitamins are good for the skin?

Vitamins A and E are both good for skin health, according to NBCNews.com. These vitamins reduce wrinkles and brown spots, smooth rough skin, and protect skin from sun damage.

NBCNews.com reports that skin cannot absorb all the nutrients it needs through diet and oral supplements. The skin requires direct application of vitamins through topical ointments for optimum effect. Vitamin A derivatives help smooth rough skin as well as reduce wrinkles and brown spots. These derivatives, called retinoids, are found in over-the-counter and prescription night creams. They work best when applied before bed. Vitamin E protects the skin from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. Vitamin E is found in sunscreens and helps neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that damage skin. These creams work best when applied before spending time in the sun.