There may be a supplement boom, but that doesn’t mean all supplements are worth trying, especially if your goals include making anti-aging skincare gains. Supplements aren’t candy — they are minerals, vitamins, and plant extracts that can have real effects on your body. If you are interested in kickstarting a supplement routine or in adding a few more to your already robust diet of supplements, here’s where you should not start: with these three supplement that experts say can cause premature aging and dehydration.
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DHEA
DHEA, or Dehydroepiandrosterone, is produced by the adrenal glands and to make the hormones estrogen and adrenal in women and men. As we age, DHEA declines, and the supplement has been touted as a good anti-aging pick to replenish declining hormonal levels and helps with related issues like collagen decrease and hair loss. But there’s very little evidence that DHEA supplements work, and too much of it can lead to liver damage and lower HDL cholesterol levels, which can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Biotin
It’s commonly accepted that biotin is a supplement that can only help, and never hurt, your efforts to get smoother skin and stronger hair and nails. But high doses of biotin are said to get in the way of vitamin B5 absorption by the body. This nutrient is known for its anti-inflammatory benefits, so when your skin is deprived of it, you may see more acne than usual. This definitely isn’t what you had in mind when you started biotin.
If you have a biotin deficiency, which is rare, your doctor can help you find the right dosage for your needs. But overdoing it won’t help and could hurt.
Whey Protein
If you’re noticing an imbalance in your skin’s oils and more acne than usual AND you’re a fan of daily whey protein shakes or smoothies, this may not be purely a coincidence. Whey is extracted from cow’s milk and can contain growth factors that contribute to the stimulation of excess sebum and acne. Try switching to an alternative like hemp protein, soy protein, or pea protein.
