Antioxidant Skin Care

Topical antioxidants provide protection against free radicals caused by environmental pollution, sun, and smoking and may slow down the skin aging process. Free radicals damage the cell’s DNA, resulting in the formation of wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, loss of elasticity, sagging skin and some skin disease such as skin cancer.

However, the effect of topical antioxidants depends on skin permeability, other ingredients in the cream, and other factors. To additionally protect your skin from free radicals, you can increase oral intake of antioxidant rich foods or supplements.

The most common antioxidants in skin care products are

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is the only antioxidant that stimulates the synthesis of collagen, fades age spots, and minimizes fine lines, wrinkles, and scars. Vitamin C ester is the most effective form of vitamin C used in skin care products.

Vitamin C, if not stabilized, will deteriorate quickly. If the color of the vitamin C cream becomes darker, the cream is no longer effective.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is the anti-sterility vitamin. It helps prevent premature aging and even protect other nutrients from damages. Human bodies use vitamin E to heal injured tissues and prevent scarring.

Vitamin E skin care products also increases the effectiveness of sunscreen and prevent and treat sunburns.

Coenzyme Q-10

CoQ10 is an antioxidant and antibacterial agent. It is one of powerful ingredients that stimulate the collagen production. Human body can make its own CoQ10. After the age of 20, the production level of CoQ10 declines. Research studies have shown that CoQ10 can effectively fight against free radicals and prevent damage to collagen and elastin production process. In other words, it helps slow down skin aging process and avoid wrinkles.

Green Tea

Green tea is renowned for its high antioxidant levels. Green tea skin care products do more than fighting free radicals. They revitalize the skin, reduce inflammation, and smooth out discolorations. Green tea skin care products are also a good treatment for acne as green tea is anti-bacteria.

Alpha Lipoic Acid

Alpha Lipoic Acid has been referred to as a “Universal Antioxidant.” In contrast to vitamin C (which is water soluble) and vitamin E (which is fat soluble), Alpha Lipoic Acid is soluble in both oil and water so it can neutralize free radicals in both the fatty and watery regions of cells. This quality permits its entrance to all parts of the cell. It diminishes fine lines and wrinkles, makes the skin glowing, and boosts other antioxidant levels.

How to Apply Topical Antioxidants?

Apply antioxidant skin care products to your freshly washed face and follow by regular moisturizer, if needed. If you use a retinoid at night, apply the topical antioxidants in the morning.