While we can’t completely halt the natural aging process, we can certainly slow it down and mitigate its effects. One powerful ally in this battle against aging is antioxidants. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of antioxidants in skincare and explore how these compounds can be your skin’s secret weapon against aging.

Understanding Aging and Skin

Before we dive into the role of antioxidants, let’s take a moment to understand the aging process and its effects on the skin. Aging is a natural, inevitable process that affects every cell and tissue in our bodies, including our skin. Over time, our skin goes through various changes that result in wrinkles, fine lines, loss of elasticity, and uneven skin tone. These changes are primarily driven by:

Intrinsic Ageing: This is the natural aging process influenced by our genetics. As we age, our skin produces less collagen and elastin, leading to reduced firmness and elasticity.

Extrinsic Ageing: Also known as premature aging, this is caused by external factors such as sun exposure, pollution, smoking, and an unhealthy lifestyle. Extrinsic aging can accelerate the appearance of wrinkles and age spots.

The good news, extrinsic ageing accounts for 80% of skin ageing, and this we have control over.

What Are Antioxidants? And how can they help slow ageing?

In order to understand what they are exactly, let’s start with a quick science lesson: Antioxidants are naturally occurring compounds that play a crucial role in protecting our bodies, including our skin, from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when there’s an imbalance between free radicals (unstable molecules –  (which can originate inside the body or via external factors like air pollution and UV radiation from the sun)) and antioxidants in the body. 

Free radicals damage skin cell DNA, disrupting their function, and also breaks down collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for skin’s elasticity and firmness. Free radicals also hinder the skin’s natural ability to repair itself. This accelerate the aging process, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of premature aging. 

It’s important to note that free radicals are nearly impossible to completely evade. The body generates small quantities of them during routine processes, but the skin relies on its internal antioxidant defenses to counteract them and safeguard itself.

The challenge arises when external environmental factors such as UV exposure, pollution, and cigarette smoke generate an excessive amount of free radicals. In such cases, the skin’s natural protective system becomes overwhelmed, leading to damage

Antioxidants work by neutralizing free radicals, preventing them from causing further harm to your skin. They essentially act as your skin’s bodyguards, defending it against environmental aggressors.

Benefits of Antioxidants for the Skin.

Now that we understand how antioxidants work, let’s explore the specific benefits they offer for your skin:

Common Antioxidants in Skincare

There are various antioxidants used in skincare products, each with its unique benefits. Here’s a roundup of some of the most beneficial antioxidants for skincare:

1. Vitamin C: A skincare staple, vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that fights free radicals, boosts collagen production, and fades dark spots. Use it in the morning to maximize its sun protection and hyperpigmentation-inhibiting effects. Vitamin C’s skin benefits are suited towards all skin types but pure versions can be irritating especially to sensitive skin.

2. Niacinamide: This vitamin B3 derivative improves skin texture and tone, reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties, soothing breakouts and calming skin. Niacinamide is gentle and suitable for sensitive skin.

3. Resveratrol: Often dubbed the “longevity molecule,” resveratrol is a powerful antioxidant found in grapes and berries. It boasts anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties that soothe skin, reduce aging signs, and potentially protect against infections. Use it in the evening to avoid UV interference.

4. Vitamin E: This essential antioxidant is renowned for its ability to accelerate skin healing. It’s commonly found in moisturizers, creams, and lotions for dry skin and stretch mark reduction. Vitamin E also stabilizes other antioxidants, enhancing their effectiveness.

5. Retinol (Vitamin A): A proven anti-aging champion, retinol is a derivative of vitamin A that penetrates deep into the skin to stimulate collagen production, accelerate cell turnover, and smooth fine lines and wrinkles. Both over-the-counter retinol and prescription retinoids are effective.

Retinoids can be irritating and finding a formula with the right concentration of retinol suited to your skin can be difficult. Learn all about Retinol here.

6. Coenzyme Q10: This antioxidant, also known as ubiquinone, naturally declines with age, making our skin more susceptible to wrinkles and photo-aging. Topical application replenishes coenzyme Q10, fighting free radicals and promoting healthy skin cells. It also stimulates collagen production for enhanced elasticity and texture.

7. Polyphenols: These compounds, including resveratrol, are abundant in fruits, vegetables, tea, and other botanicals. Their anti-inflammatory, immunomodulating, and antioxidant properties protect against UV-induced damage, combat aging signs, and repair DNA damage.

8. Ferulic acid: A potent antioxidant, acts as a protective shield against cellular damage in plants like wheat, rice, peanuts, oranges, and apples. Unlike repairing existing damage, it proactively defends against ongoing deterioration. Its anti-aging properties are further enhanced when combined with vitamins C and E, making it a valuable addition to skincare regimens.can irritate people with sensitive skin so try to avoid it if you have a sensitive skin type. 

9. Glutathione: a naturally occurring antioxidant, is gaining popularity for its skin-lightening properties. It effectively addresses dark spots, dark circles around the eyes, and overall skin brightening, making it a great choice for those seeking to achieve a more even complexion. Its ability to combat sunspots and pigmentation further enhances its appeal for individuals with uneven skin tones or sun-damaged complexions.

10. Flavonoids: a diverse collection of pigments that form natural plant compounds called polyphenols, are renowned for their potent antioxidant properties. These beneficial compounds are abundantly present in various fruits, vegetables, and plants like green apples and strawberries. Flavonoids play a crucial role in shielding our skin from sun damage, a key factor in slowing down the visible signs of aging and potentially reducing the risk of certain skin cancers. Their versatility extends to all skin types, making them a universally beneficial antioxidant.

As research continues, more potent antioxidants await discovery. For now, these powerful allies can help you achieve the radiant, youthful skin you desire.

Choosing the Right Antioxidant Products for your skin.

When it comes to choosing antioxidant products for your skincare routine, it’s essential to be an informed consumer. Here are some tips to help you make the right choices:

Read Product Labels and Ingredient Lists:

Look for products that list antioxidants as active ingredients. Check for the specific antioxidants mentioned, such as vitamin C or vitamin E.

Consider Your Skin Type:

Different antioxidants may be more suitable for certain skin types. For example, vitamin E is excellent for dry skin, while salicylic acid may be better for oily or acne-prone skin.

Sunscreen and Antioxidants: A Winning Combination

While antioxidants are a vital part of your skincare routine, they work even better when combined with sunscreen. Sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UV rays, while antioxidants combat free radicals. Together, they provide the best protection against premature aging and sun damage.

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You can include antioxidants in any step of your routine, however they work best with leave on products so I wouldn’t’ bother looking for a cleanser with antioxidants. You’ll find them included with toners, essences, serums, sprays, moisturisers and spfs so you don’t need to apply antioxidants as an extra step (unless you want to.. I have about 50 million steps in my routine so I can’t judge!).

Don’t forget to eat a diet rich in antioxidants. What you put in your body is just as important as what you put on it. A Vitamin C liposomal supplement is a great addition and I love this antioxidant supplement

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