Antioxidants 101
Let’s be real, unless you’re an ingredient expert or Licensed Esthetician, I’m sure you know that, yes, antioxidants are good for you, but you don’t know exactly why you should be slathering them on your face.
Antioxidants are naturally occurring vitamins and minerals, like vitamin C, E, beta carotene, selenium, etc, and their primary function in relation to the skin is to help protect it from free radical damage.
What is free radical damage and why does it sound so scary?!
Free radicals are molecules in the environment that damage your skin by clinging on to your collagen and weakening elasticity, which would cause premature wrinkles. As if we don’t lose enough of that with age alone, now we have to worry about free radicals?! Sheesh. Examples of common free radicals include; air pollutants, ultraviolet rays, harsh chemicals, and cigarette smoke.
Benefits of Antioxidants
An antioxidant’s purpose is to NEUTRALIZE free radical damage by giving up some of their electrons to act as an “off” switch, thus breaking a chain reaction that can effect other cells in the body. Your body’s cells naturally produce some powerful antioxidants such as alpha lipoic acid and glutathione. In return, when consumed regularly through a healthy diet, (lots of colorful fruits and vegetables) this can help prevent signs of aging (hallelujah), fending off heart disease, improving vision, and preventing cancer.
The benefits of antioxidants don’t stop there.
Antioxidants in skincare are proven to soothe inflammation, visibly brighten the skin, help fight against acne, help speed up wound healing, and relieve itchiness / burning sensations associated with eczema or psoriasis, and increase collagen production.
When exercised regularly, the consumption of antioxidants internally along with the consistent use of them in skincare can drastically improve imperfections in the skin. Understanding what antioxidants are, and their purpose for us will only help you achieve your goals faster! Once you know, you glow!
Thank you for reading!
This article of the Skinsider Scoop was graciously written by L.E. and Acne Specialist, Rachel DiGiacomo and edited by the Clean Skin Club team. If you're interested in more from Rachel, please shoot us an email, and follow her Instagram - @skinsolutionsbyrachel