ANTIOXIDANTS FOR SKIN: CHOOSING WHAT’S BEST FOR YOU

Apart from sunscreen, antioxidants are certainly the most loved ingredient by beauty and skin experts. Every day our skin is bombarded with pollution, dirt, makeup, and harmful lights from screens. As a result, our skin becomes dull, pigmented, dry, and can lead to loss of elastin and collagen.

Antioxidants protect the skin against radical damage and keep it looking healthy and youthful for longer. Incorporating them into your routine will make a world of a difference to your skin. There is a huge range of antioxidants to choose from. Essentially, they all have the same purpose; protecting your largest organ from oxidative stress. Blending antioxidants with different ingredients will bring about different results. Hence, it might take you some time to find the right concoction for yourself.

You can always go to a skin specialist and get a perfect routine designed for your particular skin type. Keep on reading this article to learn more about the different antioxidants for skin and their benefits.

VITAMIN C

We all know that Vitamin C works wonders for our skin. It not only fights oxidative stress and free radicals but also promotes collagen production. Using Vitamin C for your skin helps even out the skin tone, smooth out skin texture, fight scars and make your skin brighter. Vitamin C works best when mixed with Vitamin E and ferulic acid. Make sure to wear sunscreen during the day while using Vitamin C.

VITAMIN E

Vitamin E is a miracle product especially if you have dry skin. It has amazing moisturizing and anti-inflammatory benefits. It is also known for wound healing properties and works amazingly well for people who struggle with skin sensitivity and irritation. You can find it under the ingredients label by the name tocopherol. It works best when paired with resveratrol and Vitamin C. You can find plenty of serums, moisturizers, and even lip balms that contain tocopherol.

NIACINAMIDE

This particular ingredient has gained a lot of popularity in recent times. Nearly every beauty guru raves about it (for all the right reasons). It is used to manage acne, pigmentation, wrinkles, and rosacea. Niacinamide also reinforces the skin barrier and improves the long-term health of the skin. Due to its anti-inflammatory nature, it works best for people whose skin is prone to breakouts and blackheads. This particular antioxidant also works amazingly well to reduce skin texture.

RETINOL

Retinol, also known as Vitamin A is hands down the best antioxidant to fight the signs of aging. A lot of clinical research has been done on Retinol. It helps with the cell turnover, stimulates the production of collagen, accelerates the cell renewal process and repairs damaged DNA. However, it is important to start slow especially if you have a sensitive skin type. Do not opt for more than 0.25 percent retinol as a beginner. Vitamin A can make your skin incredibly sensitive to the sun. So, don’t forget to wear high-quality sunscreen during the day, and reapply it as needed.

POLYPHENOLS

If you are a skincare newbie, you might haven’t heard of the polyphenols below. They are a less popular ingredient but certainly one of the most effective ones. They are also called nature’s most potent antioxidants and are found in green tea, resveratrol, and black tea. Polyphenols work amazingly well against sun-damaged skin. If you have a sensitive skin type, add them to your routine and see your skin transform. It helps fight the redness, irritated, itchy skin and makes it calmer.

HYALURONIC ACID

Hyaluronic Acid is another popular ingredient, thanks to the beauty gurus of the internet. I am sure you know this ingredient for its immense hydrating properties. After all, it can hold 1000 times its weight underwater and draws moisture to the skin. The thing most people don’t know is that it is also a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals and keeps your skin in optimal health. It is known to stimulate wound healing and visibly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also makes your skin appear plump, juicy, and glowing and is suitable for people of all skin types.

COENZYME Q10

It is another less popular antioxidant but it is highly effective. Coenzyme Q10 is a naturally found substance in the body. As we age, our body produces less and less Coenzyme Q10 which shows on our skin. Our skin loses its luster and elasticity. Regularly using this amazing antioxidant will make your skin more youthful. It helps improve the skin’s texture and elasticity. It is used as the main ingredient in many skincare products; serums, night creams, moisturizers, and lotions. Select one based on your preference and you will certainly see a difference in your skin.

GREEN TEA

This one is certainly a fan favorite and a lot of people like to consume it on a day-to-day basis due to its health benefits. When applied topically, it can change your skin game. Research shows that green tea has many anti-aging benefits and defends skin surface from environmental stressors. It also has a distinct calming effect on the skin and visibly reduces redness and skin irritation. You can get a lot of products that contain green tea. From toners to moisturizers, you will find entire skincare ranges that are infused with green tea. It is certainly one of the gentlest yet effective antioxidant.

FINAL TAKEAWAY

Now that you are aware of the best antioxidants that can transform your skin, it’s time to start incorporating them into your skincare routine. The best way to do it is by visiting a dermatologist and getting antioxidant-infused skincare products that will work well for your skin concerns.

If you plan to make the purchase yourself, make sure to read the ingredients label and only buy products that are made for your skin type. Always do a patch test before using any new skincare product and do not forget to use sunscreen during the daytime.

Last but not the least, remember that consistency is the key to seeing results.