Many a time, we hear how antioxidants play a significant role in skin health but may not be exactly sure how they work. For me it has been a very important part of my skincare regimen and when formulating our products, I am very intentional about how to incorporate them in order to maximize the benefits and see skin strengthening results. Antioxidants protect the skin by limiting free radical production, which can cause damage. With continued use, they can reduce sunspots, help combat visible signs of aging and calm skin inflammations. Antioxidants support skin repair, thus helping revitalize lackluster complexions.

WHAT ARE ANTIOXIDANTS?

 Antioxidants are molecules that protect your cells against free radicals. A good source of antioxidants can be found in food, especially in fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based, whole foods. Several vitamins, such as vitamins E and C, are effective antioxidants.

Environmental factors like radiation from the sun, pollution, cigarette smoke and other toxic chemicals are known to prompt the formation of free radicals. Once there is an excess of free radicals present in the system, it can cause oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the ability of the body to neutralize their harmful effects. However, many studies show that the inclusion of antioxidants in your skin care routine can help fight free radical damage and recover from oxidative stress.  

WHAT DO ANTIOXIDANTS DO FOR YOUR SKIN

ANTIOXIDANTS CAN HELP PREVENT SIGNS OF AGING

Oxidative stress breaks down collagen, hinders skin’s natural repair process and can activate inflammation. It comes in the form of premature aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, acne breakouts, and hyperpigmentation. This is where antioxidants can help, by slowing down this process and reducing inflammation as they neutralize free radicals. .

ANTIOXIDANTS CAN HELP PREVENT SUNBURN

Anti-inflammatory antioxidants can help your skin’s response to the sun’s harmful UV rays, preventing sunburns and helping to defend against sun damage and photoaging. If you know you will be spending time outdoors, pair your sunscreen with an antioxidant treatment for added protection.

ANTIOXIDANTS CAN HELP TREAT ACNE

Antioxidants can be used to treat inflammatory skin conditions like acne. Most that are acne-prone, show signs of increased oxidative stress — including lower blood levels of antioxidant vitamins like A and E. Also, oxidative stress may prompt inflammation that ultimately stimulates breakouts. Antioxidants play a huge role in minimizing oxidative stress.

ANTIOXIDANTS CAN HELP BRIGHTEN YOUR SKIN

Free radicals and UV exposure can increase the production of melanin in skin, causing sun spots, dark spots, and other forms of hyperpigmentation. Antioxidants can help prevent abnormal skin pigmentation, which keeps your skin tone bright and even. Some antioxidants like Vitamin C & E, works as an enzyme that inhibits the process of melanin production.

ANTIOXIDANTS CAN HELP SKIN REPAIR ITSELF

When skin is inflamed, it impedes the skin’s rejuvenation process. By reducing inflammation, antioxidants allow skin to repair itself and correct visible damage. Antioxidants such as Vitamin C, can also stimulate collagen production and boost the skin’s protective moisture barrier, which is vital for youthful skin.

WHAT ARE THE BEST ANTIOXIDANTS FOR YOUR SKIN?

Keeping all this in mind, these are some of the most effective topical antioxidants in skin care that justify a spot in your skincare regimen.

1) VITAMIN C TO BRIGHTEN YOUR COMPLEXION

Vitamin C, also known as l-absorbic acid repairs cells and aids in restoring collagen production. It also helps to hinder the skin’s pigment production process, basically serving as an inhibitor, which keeps UV rays from creating dark spots or uneven skin tone. Amla (Indian Gooseberry), contains one of the highest content of natural Vitamin C.

2) VITAMIN A TO REDUCE FINE LINES AND WRINKLES

Retinol, the more popular form of vitamin A, is known for its ability to speed skin cell turnover and boost collagen production, making it a go-to for reducing fine lines and wrinkles. However, it can be incredibly irritating and may be paired with synthetic preservatives that are not from naturally derived sources. Vitamin A-rich ingredients, such as Rosehip Seed Oil, Tulsi and Algae extract, offer similar skin-regenerating effects without the drawbacks.

3) VITAMIN E MOISTURIZES AND HEALS SKIN

Vitamin E is remarkable for its ability to nourish skin and promote healing. Ingredients like Neem, Argan, Almond are high in Vitamin E, which maintains skin barrier function and aids in allowing skin to better retain moisture.

4) FERULIC ACID TO REPAIR SUN DAMAGE

Ferulic acid is beneficial on its own, but when paired with Vitamin C, the effects are maximized. Together, they work well to defend against and repair sun damage in skin.