By now we are aware of the many damaging effects the environment and climate can have on our skin. The skin is our largest organ and direct interface with the environment it is directly affected by free radicals. In addition, free radicals are unpaired energy particles that are produced when your body breaks down food and is exposed to radiation and tobacco smoke.
These particles then react with cells of the body and damage the DNA. Incorporating antioxidants into your skincare has been proven to help protect the skin by reducing inflammation and increasing the skin’s natural rejuvenation process.
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Effects of environmental stressors
Kevin Khosa, Customer Service Manager and Expert at SKIN functional revealed that antioxidants are substances that help protect the skin’s surface from oxidative damage caused by free radicals and environmental aggressors like UV and pollution. Essentially, these stressors from the exposome produce electrons which are powerful molecules that when unpaired cause damage to our cell’s DNA leading to signs of ageing, inflammation, barrier impairment and uneven skin tone. Anti-oxidants mop up these free radicals by donating electrons thereby stabilising the molecules and preventing their damaging effects on the DNA.
The role of anti-oxidants in skincare
Dr Lauren Knight, a board-certified Dermatologist said: Using topical antioxidants has shown to have a host of benefits for the skin. Benefits include:
- Protection against UV damage: We know that the sun is the main culprit in the ageing of the skin in what we call photo ageing. This ageing occurs by the sun damaging the DNA of the cells which ultimately limits the number of times a cell can repair itself which leads to ageing. Antioxidants may help give a protective effect against UV damage when combined with sunscreen.
- Calm inflammation: Free radicals by their very nature create inflammation. Antioxidants can help reduce inflammation and may have a soothing effect on the skin. This is typically seen with Niacinamide for example.
- Slow premature ageing: Topical antioxidants can make the skin look more youthful by improving skin tone and texture, evening out pigmentation as well as increasing collagen synthesis. Additionally, they protect against extrinsic ageing (for instance, premature ageing caused by external factors like chronic sun exposure, smoking, pollution, and more).
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What are your anti-oxidants?
Vitamin C & E, resveratrol, Niacinamide and co-enzyme Q10.
New to oxidative care at SKIN functional
Launching this month is the new 12% Ascorbic Acid + Briteodant Complex serum. This patented formulation ensures a perfectly stable delivery of Ascorbic Acid which is the most powerful form of vitamin C. The Briteodant Complex™ is a powerful complex that brightens and evens the skin complexion for a more even skin tone. Added benefits include increased collagen production.
Another valuable addition to SKIN functional’s comprehensive Anti-Oxidant product offering is the Q10 + Peptides serum. This product provides a perfectly balanced treatment that repairs rebuilds and protects your skin. The formulated with natural and powerful Co-Enzyme Q10 which protects against skin damage. Peptides increase collagen production decreasing fine lines and wrinkles.
Anti-oxidant Care
“When it comes to anti-oxidants there is no doubt that they are beneficial to include in your skincare regimen. Topical antioxidants provide an additional line of defence against harmful free radicals. With the use of antioxidant-rich serums and similar skin care products, you can reduce inflammation and provide essential nourishment. Antioxidants can help slow down the signs of ageing for a more youthful and revitalised appearance,” concluded Dr Knight.
