While some inroads have been made in the US to develop and market beauty supplements, the greatest growth has been in Japan and Europe. The impetus behind the growing demand, of course, is the aging baby boomer population. It's estimated that this market has grown to over $1 billion world wide.

The rationale behind these products is that they go below the surface, inside the body to aid in achieving more beautiful skin.

In Europe, these products are sold widely in pharmacies. In Japan, niche retail stores and a number of department store counters have opened to specialize in the sale of beauty supplements offered by companies such as Shiseido.

Imedeen

While not as prevalent in the U.S., best known are Imedeen skin supplements from Denmark available online in the States at SkinStore.Com. Imedeen is promoted as having been tested safe and proven effective scientifically in clinical studies. It's recommended that these oral supplements be used in conjunction with your regular skin care regimen.

A six month study reported in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition established that women taking Imedeen showed significant improvement in smoothness and firmness of skin on the face, hands and décolletage. Other benefits were reduction of fine lines, a more glowing complexion and faded sunspots. The science behind Imedeed is rather impressive.

Other Products

Another such oral supplement is Loreal's Inneov which is a little difficult to find in the U.S. It's active ingredient, Lacto-lycopene, is derived from the tomato and is combined with soy isoflavins and Vitamin C. Another, drinkable form, offered by Borba is also available at the SkinStore.com.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Eat salmon, mackerel or albacore tuna a couple of times a week. These are excellent sources of Omega-3 fatty acids, and are not just good for your heart. A body of evidence has emerged persuading dermatologists to recommend it for healing dry skin and even the rough, red, scaly patches of psoriasis and eczema.

Omega-3s are essential fats which, among other things, are a significant part of the skin's lubricating layer which helps keep skin supple. And, our bodies do not produce them. They also combat free radicals which can lead to blotchy skin and wrinkles.

A good plan would be to supplement fish meals with Omega-3 supplements which can be obtained at Costco (the Kirkland brand) for around $9 or $10 for 400 gel caps. So, if your budget can't handle Imedeen, you can get off pretty cheaply on your next Costco run with the next best thing.

FYI, here's the rundown on Imedeen:

Imedeen Time Perfection 180 tablets FREE Shipping. 115% Price Protection. International Customers Please Note: Imedeen products cannot be shipped outside of the United States. Imedeen Time Perfection is a supplement created for women aged 35 - 50. This anti-aging skin defense improves mature and sun-damaged skin from within. Imedeen Time Perfection is an advanced formula that contains Biomarine Complex™, exclusive to Imedeen, and LycoPhence GS™, a patented skin-defense system. Imedeen Time Perfection cares for mature and sun-damaged skin from inside the body. It helps promote healthy, supple and radiant skin and reduces the visible signs of aging. It is tested safe and proven by science in clinical studies. Start on the path to younger looking skin today. Just two Imedeen Time Perfection tablets daily for three months: Improves the basic quality and structure of the skin. Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Diminishes the visibility of dilated capillaries, pigmentation spots and pore size. Increases the skin's moisture level by 30% on average. Improves the look and feel of the skin over the entire body. Contains 180 tablets - A 90-day supply Directions For Use: The recommended daily dose is two tablets. Take with a glass of water. Allow time for Imedeen tablets to work. Results can be noticed after 90 days.