How many vitamins do you really need in your skincare routine? We investigate...

It's not just our body that needs vitamins - our skin does too. Keep yours glowing with our pick of vitamin-enriched products.

The importance of getting enough vitamins through our food is something we learn from a very early age. But what about vitamins for beauty? Which are the best for skin and what exactly do they do?

A visit to the beauty counter can be daunting. With so many 'miracle' products to sort through, it's easy to lose sight of simple and proven ingredients.

Experts have known for some time the positive effect of vitamins on skin. A lack of essential vitamins can make it appear lifeless, blotchy, dry or oily. Vitamins A, C and E are the most beneficial, with C and E the simplest forms of antioxidants, substances that help prevent damage from free radicals.

VITAMIN A
This essential vitamin is responsible for skin formation and in conjunction with a high SPF sunscreen helps prevent sun damage. Vitamin A derivatives temporarily boost collagen, giving a more youthful appearance. Either a serious lack or excess of vitamin A can cause dry, rough skin. Retinol is the animal form of vitamin A, so look for retinol, retinoic acid, retinyl palmitate (also known as provitamin A), isotretinoin and tretinoin in products.
Try: L'Oreal Revitalift Day, $26.95, Skindoctors Retanew, $69.95, Kiehl's Lip Balm #1, $16.

VITAMIN C
Also known by its chemical name ascorbic acid, vitamin C is essential in the formation and maintenance of collagen, a protein used to make skin. In cosmetic products, one of vitamin C's main properties is to restore and maintain moisture and radiance. It also evens tone. A deficiency of this vitamin can lead to rough skin and dry hair. When looking for vitamin C enriched products, search ingredients for ascorbyl glucoside, ascorbyl palmitate and ascorbyl phosphate.
Try: The Body Shop Vitamin C Energising Face Spritz, $21.95, SkinVitals C-Brighten Treatment Mask, $3.95, Pelactiv Dream Cream Vita-C Complex, $80.

VITAMIN E
A very important antioxidant, Vitamin E plays a vital role in encouraging skin healing. It's commonly referred to as tocopherol and one of its main functions is to protect the body's lipids (or fats) from damage caused by environmental factors. Studies show it also protects against UV radiation but remember to always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen as well. Look for tocopherol or tocotrienol to indicate a product contains vitamin E.
Try: Jo Malone Vitamin E Nourishing Hand Treatment, $75, Olay Complete UV Defence Moisture Lotion, $13.49, The Body Shop Vitamin E Body Butter, $25.95.

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