Common skin problems are usually treated with over-the-counter medication. These products contain a variety of man-made chemicals that appear in such low dosages that they cause no real effect.

When we go to our local drugstore and look for a product or treatment that will relieve our ailment. We usually pick up a jar or bottle and read the ingredients, but what do they mean? What makes things worse is that most products will list a large number of ingredients that are difficult to understand. However, here is a short list of vitamins that are common in skin care products and that may help you understand what the cream is actually doing to your skin.

The Important Role of Vitamins

Vitamin A. In an investigation that appeared in the British Journal of Dermatology, doctors found that nutrients high in beta-carotene -- a type of vitamin A -- minimized the risk of psoriasis.

Vitamin B Complex.Recently, greater attention is being paid to topical preparations containing B vitamins. These creams can help give skin an almost instant healthy glow while hydrating cells and enhancing general tone.

For the skin, the single most important B vitamin is biotin, a nutrient that creates the basis of skin, nail, and hair cells. Without appropriate amounts, you may end up with dermatitis (an itchy, scaly skin condition) or sometimes even hair loss. Even a mild deficiency causes reactions.

Niacin, another special B vitamin, helps skin retain humidity, so creams containing this nutrient can help your skin look plumper and younger in as little as 6 days. Niacin also has anti-inflammatory abilities to soothe dry skin. In stronger concentrations it can also work as a lightening agent to even out blotchy skin tone.

Vitamin K. As the nutrient responsible for aiding blood coagulate, Vitamin K won't do much for your skin from the inside. But researches presented in the American Academy of Dermatology in 2003 showed that topical vitamin K works well to minimize circles under the eye as well as bruises. In study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology in 2002, doctors found that skin treatments with vitamin K cream after laser surgery greatly reduced bruising. When combined with vitamin A in a product, vitamin K can be even more effective for those dark circles.

In a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, doctors from the Nippon Medical School in Tokyo found that the topical application of a gel containing a type of vitamin K, as well as vitamins A, C, and E, was effective in minimizing dark under-eye circles while also decreasing wrinkles.

Minerals Beneficial for Skin Nutrition

Selenium. A number of scientists believe this mineral plays a key role in skin cancer prevention. Taken in supplement form or applied in a cream, this mineral helps shield skin from sun damage. If you do spend any time in the sun, selenium could help minimize your chance of burning.

Copper. Still another important mineral is copper. In combination with vitamin C and zinc, copper aids in the production of elastin, the fibers that support skin structure from underneath.

Zinc. The next mineral that is important to skin repair is zinc especially if you have acne. Actually, sometimes acne itself is a sign of a zinc deficiency. Taken internally or applied topically, zinc works to clear skin by regulating oil production and may be effective in controlling the formation of acne lesions or help those already on your skin to clear sooner. Food sources of zinc are oysters, lean meat, and poultry.

By keeping in mind this short list of vitamins and minerals, finding the right skin care products will be much easier.