Dry skin is defined as slightly scaly, itchy or rough skin, and it can cause redness, peeling, cracks, pain or a burning sensation. Although several environmental factors can contribute to dry skin, simple vitamin therapies and a more nutritious diet might help those who are afflicted with it. Healthy skin depends on a balanced, nutritious diet of many vitamins and nutrients.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A in both retinol and beta carotene forms is usually considered one of the most essential, and therefore beneficial, of all of the vitamins that contribute to healthy skin. Vitamin A contributes to cell growth and repair, an important part of skin regeneration.

Vitamin A Sources

The recommended dosage of vitamin A can vary from 300 to 1,300 micrograms (1,000 to 4,300 IUs) daily. Based on age and other health factors, the beta carotene form is easy to absorb. Vitamin A is found in many healthful foods, including spinach, egg yolks, carrots, apricots, kale, peas, squash, pumpkin, liver and oranges. It is also added to many fortified juices.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D provides strength and elasticity for skin. Combined with other vitamins, it contributes to renewal and growth. It is fat-soluble and can be found in foods such as fortified milk and cereals, as well as 10 to 15 minutes of sunlight exposure a day.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that preserves skin moisture and stimulates cell renewal and growth. Taken regularly with other vitamins, it can contribute to softer and smoother skin. Sources for vitamin E include olive and almond oil, seafood, beef, sunflower seeds and asparagus. Vitamin E can also be administered topically as an oil, as well as in lotion for the skin.

Other Essential Vitamin Nutrients

Some other vitamins that can be essential to prevent dry skin include potassium, vitamin B and sodium. Aloe vera is very beneficial for dry skin and can be found in natural form from the plant and in gels. It is often found in topical lotions, along with vitamins A, E and D and other vitamin nutrients. Plentiful water in the diet is also essential for healthy skin and in combating dry skin. Daily supplements of multivitamins including A, D and E can greatly improve dry skin conditions and ward off deficiencies that can exacerbate dry skin.

Source:

Dry Skin

Mayo Clinic

The long answer above is very good and accurate; however, another thing you could take would be Flaxseed oil capsules..... They are a vegetable source of important fatty acids your skin and hair need!! You could take fish oils, but I do not believe in taking anything that was in the ocean....we have no idea how much pollution is in the oceans....