Supplements vs. Skincare—Where Should We Be Investing?

Inside-out or outside-in? The science of perfect skin.
beauty supplements
Supplements are what’s missing in your beauty routine (Photo: Instagram / @moonjuice)

With aesthetic treatments on the rise and beauty shelves stacked with high-performance serums, a new question is gaining traction among those serious about skin: are supplements the missing piece of the puzzle? The rise of ingestible beauty, from collagen powders to gut health capsules, suggests that topical skincare alone might no longer be enough. But in a market flooded with promises, how do you know where your money is best spent?

“There’s no denying that what we put into our bodies shows up on our skin,” says Boris Hodakel, founder of Feel Supplements. “Supplements can help address internal imbalances that skincare simply can’t reach; things like chronic inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, or hormone-related breakouts. And when it comes to collagen, no topical cream can replenish what the body naturally loses over time. That’s where supplements come in—working from the inside out to support skin structure, elasticity and glow. Results build gradually, but with consistency, they can make a real, lasting difference.”

It’s this inside-out approach that’s gaining attention, especially in regions like the Middle East where wellness is increasingly seen as a foundation for beauty. Consumers are looking beyond the surface, turning to ingestibles that promise to strengthen the skin barrier, reduce sensitivity, and enhance post-treatment results. That said, dermatologists are clear: skincare still plays a vital role. Active ingredients like retinol, niacinamide, and peptides deliver proven benefits when applied correctly—particularly for targeting pigmentation, fine lines, or acne. And unlike supplements, which can take weeks or months to show results, topical products often offer quicker, more visible change.

beauty supplements
Photo: Instagram / @wearefeel

But what about aesthetic treatments? For those looking to accelerate or enhance their results, in-clinic options like Morpheus8 burst, which uses radiofrequency microneedling to stimulate collagen and tighten the skin, or Heleo4 Skin Cellular Detox a new-generation skin cellular detox treatment targeting inflammation and sluggish skin, are gaining momentum across the region. These treatments can provide a powerful reset, especially when combined with consistent skincare and internal support.

So where should you be investing your dollars? “It’s not about choosing one over the other,” says Orsi Matheisz, founder of Orskin Aesthetics. “Supplements provide internal support, skincare works on the surface, and in-clinic treatments offer that expert-level boost. The best results come when all three are working in harmony—it’s about treating the skin as a whole, not in isolation.”

The future of beauty, it seems, is not either/or. It’s smart layering—from your serum to your supplement to your in-clinic treatment. And knowing that glow begins long before you reach for your moisturiser—it starts with how you nourish your body, care for your skin daily, and support it professionally when needed.

To help get you started, shop the best beauty supplements as tried and tested by GRAZIA’s editors.

Feel Collagen Beauty Gummies

Feel Collagen Beauty Gummies, DHS254 (Photo: Feel)

Award-winning UK brand Feel has launched in the UAE with the world’s first vegan collagen range. Backed by science and free from fillers, there’s everything from glow-boosting sachets, daily gels, and best-selling hair and beauty gummies—all designed to support firmer skin, stronger hair, and a healthier you. Speaking of Beauty Gummies, not only are they plant-based, effective, seriously stylish, and packed full of everything you need for more beautiful skin, hair, and nails (hyaluronic acid, collagen, biotin, selenium) but they taste so good you’ll actually look forward to taking your supplements—promise. 

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Hårklinikken Hair Supplement

Hårklinikken Hair Supplements, DHS350 (Photo: Hårklinikken)

Forget quick fixes—this is hair rehab from within. Over a decade in development, Hårklinikken’s clinically proven supplement targets the real culprits behind thinning: stress, gut imbalances, and nutrient deficiencies. Each capsule packs a smart blend of vitamins, minerals, and probiotics to nourish follicles, boost density, and even calm stress (because yes, your scalp knows you’re overwhelmed). The result? Thicker strands, happier scalp, and hair that looks (and feels) alive again. Yes, please.

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Moon Juice Beauty Dust

Moon Juice Beauty Dust, DHS185 (Photo: Apotheca Beauty)

It might sound like something a wellness guru would whisper at a yoga retreat, but this adaptogen powder packs a serious beautifying punch. Moon Juice’s Beauty Dust blends ancient Ayurvedic and Chinese herbs (think: stress-busting ashwagandha, antioxidant-packed pearl, and hydrating schisandra) into one ridiculously easy daily ritual. Simply stir it into your morning matcha, smoothie, or even water, and let the adaptogens work their quiet magic: fighting free radicals, dialing down stress-induced ageing, and giving your skin that I-just-had-eight-hours-of-sleep glow.

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This story originally appeared on GRAZIA Middle East.

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