Do Beauty Supplements Actually Work?

You likely know what they look like, but can you accurately define beauty supplements? Some might think it's a trendy term for vitamins. That's part of it. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Julie Russak says that a supplement, aka a nutraceutical, is a term that's "used to cover any food derivative meant to supply a diet" where it's deficient. So, a vitamin, amino acid product, mineral, enzyme supplement and/or herb or botanical can all count. Beauty supplement "is more of a pretty term (pun intended) to convey the beauty benefits of supplying the body with a nutrient it lacks," she says.

According to Michelle Blaisure, a certified for trichologist for Bosley Professional Strength, beauty supplements are designed to help support, nourish and enhance the quality of hair, skin and nail health. She says many supplements contain vitamins needed for healthy cell function, plus added minerals and botanicals that help boost results. Examples include Hum Nutrition Collagen Love, $40, and Goop Goopglow Morning Skin Superpowder, $12.