But there's always something extra you can do. Experts now recommend women follow the example set by celebrities like Victoria Beckham and Elle Macpherson and use supplements for further beauty benefits.

"The foods we consume today don't contain the same level of nutrients as they have done in the past. There are more deficiencies, particularly in zinc and selenium," says naturopath Nicole Davies from Whole Man (www.wholeman.co.uk).

But getting beautiful from the inside out requires more than just popping a pill, she warns.

"Taking a multi-vitamin is a good idea, but people can easily exceed their daily recommended amounts by combining various supplements. It would be better if the bulk of antioxidants needed was taken from fruits and vegetables rather than supplements," she says.

Nicole casts her eye over these popular beauty supplements.

Comvita Grapeseed with Propolis capsules

£15.94 for 60 tablets (020 8961 4410/www.comvita.co.uk)

IT CLAIMS: Grapeseed helps strengthen collagen fibres, while propolis is rich in antioxidants to give strong support to the body's natural immune system.

NICOLE SAYS: "High in antioxidants, this will boost the immune system. It's good for the winter months, but isn't suitable for anyone who is allergic to bees, as propolis is a wax-like resinous substance collected by honeybees."

Dr Perricone Skin Clear Nutritional Support System

£69.50 for a month's supply (0800 783 2583/www.nvperriconemd.co.uk).

IT CLAIMS: This 30-day programme contains the most advanced, comprehensive dietary supplements to help improve problem skin.

NICOLE SAYS: "This modified multi-vitamin should have an effect on skin, as it contains potent antioxidants ALA and DMAE, which are detoxifying and help balance blood sugar levels."

Health Aid Elegance

£9.99 for 30 tablets from chemists and health food stores (020 8426 3400)

IT CLAIMS: Elegance doesn't just give you shiny hair, clear skin and strong healthy nails, it also tackles the digestive system and circulation.

NICOLE SAYS: "This supplement is very energy-based, and will be useful for active people and vegetarians. The combination of amino acids is good for detox, and for muscle tone and building."

Imedeen Time Terfection

£38.50 for a month's supply at Boots or Imedeen direct (0870 118 8070/www.imedeen.co.uk)

IT CLAIMS: This ensures a healthy looking, supple and radiant complexion, particularly where the skin is mature, dry or sun damaged, helping to reduce visible signs of ageing from within.

NICOLE SAYS: "This contains lots of useful antioxidants to slow down the signs of ageing. It may be targeted for women but is also great for men as lycopene is beneficial for prostate health."

Omega-3

£7.30 for 90 capsules from Higher Nature (0800 458 4747/www.highernature.co.uk)

IT CLAIMS: Omega-3 fatty acids are important for a healthy heart, brain and flexible joints. It improves the quality of skin, hair and nails.

NICOLE SAYS: "Lots of studies have shown that Omega-3 has various benefits. It's immensely good for cells as it contains essential nutrients to feed them. It's safe but people with heart conditions should stay away."

Phytophanere

£29.50 for 120 capsules from www.hqhair.com

IT CLAIMS: Phytophanere strengthens and fortifies hair. This provides a combination of ingredients necessary for beautiful hair, nails and skin.

NICOLE SAYS: "This contains essential fatty acids and vitamins such as carotene, wheatgerm oil, and brewer's yeast, which should do as it claims."

Pro-Ferm+

£55 for 90 supplements from Space NK (020 8740 2085/www.spacenk.com)

IT CLAIMS: These tablets are designed to provide skin with essential nutrients often lacking in modern diets.

NICOLE SAYS: "The pine bark Phycocyanin is a potent antioxidant, which is important for health and will help the body get rid of free radicals."

Spatone

£6.49 for 28 sachets from Boots, Holland & Barrett and health food stores (01492 640 057/www.spatone.com)

IT CLAIMS: The iron ingredient here can give your body energy and turn skin a healthy colour, and helps hair health and nail growth.

NICOLE SAYS: "Too much of this supplement can be damaging to the liver, so it's important to check your iron levels before you take this."