We hear important words pertaining to skin care, but do we really understand why they are important and why we should use them? One big word that we hear a lot is antioxidants. They are in foods that are good for our body, but what is the importance of antioxidants for skin health?
Antioxidants protect our skin by limiting the production of free radials. Free radicals are highly unstable and reactive molecules that damage living cells. These can come from air pollutants, smog, lack of sleep and exercise, stress, illness, fried foods, tobacco, alcohol, pesticides, and UV rays. Up to 80% of free radical damage is caused by the sun! So when we say wear your sunscreen, we mean it!
When we think of skin care we mostly think about what it is doing to correct or get rid of imperfections. We also need to consider prevention and maintenance in a big way. Antioxidants are a big preventative piece in skin care. They can do a lot for the health and appearance of your skin by reducing signs of aging before they start.
Here are some benefits of antioxidants:
Reduced appearance of wrinkles
There is no sure way to completely make wrinkles disappear forever, but products with antioxidants can help plump the skin and make it appear more youthful. Vitamin’s C and E are very beneficial for this purpose. Many eye products and creams incorporate these products like Skin Ceuticals  AOX+ Eye Gel.
Skin Firming
Antioxidants reverse the effects of aging by rejuvenating the skin and improving it health. Coq-10 is a common firming antioxidant. Skin Medica’s TNS Essential Serum is packed with antioxidants including CoQ-10.
Anti-inflammation
One of the most desirable benefits is the calming of inflammation. Alpha lipoic acid and some ingredients found in pine bark and green tea increase circulation and cell metabolism. Reduction of inflammation promotes an even skin tone. Allure recently awarded SkinBetter Science Alto Defense Serum as one of the best antioxidants available. It is known for reducing skin redness and a more even tone.
Sun Damage Repair
We are all aware the sun can be dangerously bad for your skin, but it can also change the appearance. Sun damaged cells cause the skin to age quicker. Antioxidants that promote blood flow and encourage new cell formation can make skin appear younger. A favorite SPF antioxidant product duo of ours is Skin Medica’s Total Defense Repair SPF 34. It prevents and protects from sun damage, while supporting the skin’s ability to restore itself.
So you can see all of the amazing benefits to incorporating antioxidants into your skin care. There isn’t a singular best antioxidant that you need to look for. The key is to use a product that contains several.The more the better! Pair your antioxidants with a broad spectrum sunscreen for ultimate environmental protection.
Come into a Utah Facial Plastics office to get a recommendation on which antioxidant product will be best for you.