The largest organ in the body is the skin, in most cases for our animal companions, this also means lots of hair. Most animals shed twice a year in the spring and autumn replacing the old hair with new.
All that hair can only grow correctly with the right nutrition. So, whether your pet has a skin condition or if you are just looking for a healthy shiny coat then a skin supplement is certainly something to consider.
What to look for in a skin supplement
There are some great supplements on the market, designed to help improve skin's integrity and coat condition.
Generally speaking, you want a supplement that is rich in fatty acids, vitamin A, B, C and E. In addition, some micro-nutrients like Zinc and amino acids may be beneficial, we suggest that the intake of these are carefully monitored as too much can be toxic.
If you’re looking for a natural supplement, the herbs to look for are Linseed, Seaweed, Brewer’s Yeast, Echinacea, Garlic, Liquorice and Calendula. These herbs supply essential fatty acids, amino acids and vitamins for keratin production. They also work to boost the overall immune response and help support cell renewal and regrowth of healthy hair and skin.
Essential fatty acids for skin
Omega Fatty Acids are more commonly known as ‘Essential Fatty Acids’ (EFAs) as the body cannot produce enough on its own, meaning it is essential that they are provided within the diet.
EFAs are a crucial part of healthy skin and coat production which makes them especially important for animals that shed regularly or have skin conditions. A good skin barrier not only helps prevent infection but also helps to prevent allergens from entering the body. Allergens are what triggers allergies, these vary greatly depending on the cause of the allergy.
Omega 3 are fatty acids mainly found in fish oil. These can help hair, skin and claw/hoof regeneration and regrowth, as well as help water retention by the skin helping to avoid dry skin which in turn helps with the skin’s barrier function. These are also key ingredients in heart health, bone strength and joint mobility.
Omega 6 are fatty acids mainly found in vegetable oils. They can have a similar effect on the skin as their cousins Omega 3 and support skin healing. Studies suggest that Omega 6 is also linked to heart health and brain development.
Vitamins for skin and coat
Vitamins play a key part in all essential body functions and are an essential part of skin production. Look for supplements that contain vitamins A, B, C and E as these are the main contributors to skin health.
Vitamin A, also known as retinol, helps to maintain and support the skin. It can be found in orange/red coloured fruits and leafy green vegetables.
Vitamins of the B group (Thiamine, Riboflavin, Biotin and Folic acid) are effective in supporting skin health and are used in collagen production and reduction of skin inflammation.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant naturally present in the skin, the amount present can be affected by various factors such as ageing. In addition to its antioxidant properties, Vitamin C is also linked to collagen production and skin healing. Studies suggest that Vitamin C is also beneficial in preventing dry skin.
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant usually found in vegetable oils. It has many benefits for the skin including protection against UV damage, reducing inflammation and wound healing.
Our product suggestions:
Top Coat is specially formulated to support:
- Prime coat & skin condition
- Resistance to seasonal itching & irritation