Antioxidants

GOOD NEWS! There is a diverse range of antioxidants to choose from. They all do different jobs in protecting your skin from oxidative stress, blending antioxidants with other ingredients can benefit the skin (check out my various layering videos on YouTube demonstrating this). It’s very important to find the one that works best with your skin type and concerns. 

Antioxidants are substances that play a pivotal role in everyone's skincare routine because they work hard. They protect your skin cells against free radicals. 

Our skin is often attacked by environmental aggressors e.g. pollution in the air, blue light from screens that can cause oxidative stress every day. This stress can lead to premature wrinkles, loss of elastin, decreased moisture, increased pigmentation, and a reduction in the moisture barrier.

Antioxidants assist in correcting signs of aging.

Antioxidants brighten and even skin tone.

Antioxidants can help boost collagen production.

Antioxidants can firm skin.

Antioxidants can help improve scar appearance.

If you're looking to protect your skin against free radicals…  here are five antioxidants that has powerful benefits for the skin. 

1. Vitamin C

Vitamin C protects skin cells from damaging free radicals caused by UV exposure. It inhibits melanin production in the skin, helping to lighten hyperpigmentation (brown spots). It restores uneven skin tone, rough textures, fine lines, acne scars, and general dullness, whilst enhancing skin radiance. 

2. Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant which improves firmness and structure of the skin.

Vitamin E provides moisturizing and anti-inflammatory benefits. It is known for its healing abilities, making it a number 1 option for people who experience sensitivity and irritation

3. Niacinamide

Niacinamide is often used to manage a wide variety of skin issues such as acne, rosacea, pigmentation issues and wrinkles. Niacinamide can help reinforce your skin barrier and improve long-term skin health. Its anti-inflammatory properties also make it a beneficial ingredient for people prone to blemishes

4. Retinol

Retinol helps with cell turnover, stimulating collagen, accelerating cell renewal, and repairing damaged skin.

HOWEVER, it can be a bit aggressive for those with sensitive skin, so it’s always best to start slow with small doses - 0.5 percent is ideal. Retinol makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, so be sure to use your sunscreen when wearing a retinol product, or ideally wear overnight.

5. Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic Acid holds 1000 times its weight in water and draws hydration into the skin. It keeps skin in peak health, allowing it to better defend itself from environmental aggressors. Additionally, it helps reduce the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles while retaining moisture to the skin, creating a plumping effect.