What are Antioxidants

Antioxidants are powerful compounds that protect cells from damage caused by harmful molecules known as free radicals. Free radicals are oxygen-containing molecules that are lacking electrons and can cause a chain of chemical reactions to other molecules such as DNA, lipids and proteins. The result of this damage leads to illness and speeds up the process of aging. Antioxidants are compounds that “donate” their own electrons to neutralize free-radicals and break the chain reaction that can affect other molecules and cells in the body. By doing this, they help protect the skin against the effects of aging and the development of chronic diseases.

How do Antioxidants Benefit Your Skin

Antioxidants offer a host of benefits for the skin. By protecting against damage caused by free radicals, they can help prevent the signs of premature aging such as wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. They also support the production of collagen in the skin, resulting in a healthy and supple appearance. Moreover, antioxidants boost immunity to protect from disease-causing pathogens and keep skin hydrated and balanced. Let’s dive deeper into the five best antioxidants that you can include in your skincare routine.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a powerhouse water-soluble antioxidant that fights free radical damage, boosts collagen production, and helps to reduce inflammation. This antioxidant can be found in a variety of products from serums and masks to cleansers, moisturizers, and more. Vitamin C comes in various forms and due to its chemical potency, it can cause skin sensitivities. For a more stable form of Vitamin C, products containing inactive or esterified forms of derivative Vitamin C can help penetrate the skin better. Some of these derivative Vitamin C include Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate and Sodium Ascorbate. Alternatively, one can also choose to use extracts from natural ingredients such as Kakadu Plum Extract found in the Sollalla Multivitamin C Serum and citrus fruits such as the Mary & May Citrus Unshiu + Tremella Fuciformis Serum that offer natural vitamin C alternatives without the unwanted side effects.

Niacinamide

The most popular skincare ingredient that is trending in the skincare industry. Niacinamide is also known as Vitamin B3 is a dermatologist recommended alternative to those who are unable to tolerate Vitamin C in their skincare routine. It is an ingredient that brings a plethora of benefits for the skin such as minimizing the appearance of pores with sebum control, strengthening the skin barrier by stimulating the production of ceramides, and reducing inflammation by inhibiting the inflammatory cascade within the skin’s immune system. Niacinamide can be found in a variety of products such as moisturizer, serums and cleansers. The Sollalla Multil Vitamin B Cream, and RNW Der. Concentrate Niacinamide Plus, both have 5% of Niacinamide to give you the optimum skin benefits.

Vitamin E

Another important antioxidant found in many skincare formulations is Vitamin E. This powerful fat-soluble antioxidant comes in four different forms to help to protect against ultraviolet-induced damage, soothe irritated skin, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

The Alpha form of Vitamin E, Alpha-Tocopherol is the most popular form of Vitamin E found in skincare products. This form of Vitamin E is easy to absorb and penetrates up to the dermis layer of the skin to protect the skin against harmful ultraviolet rays, with soothing and moisturizing properties.

The Beta form of Vitamin E, Beta-Tocopherol has antioxidants properties that prevent damage from free-radicals and cell degradation. It can be mixed with Alpha-Tocopherol for best results.

Unlike both the alpha and beta forms of Vitamin E, the Delta form of Vitamin E, Delta-Tocopherol focuses on locking in the skin’s posture and maintaining the elasticity of the skin. It is the only bioavailable form of Vitamin E that is able to enter the bloodstream and is generally found in natural foods such as nuts.

Lastly, the Gamma form of Vitamin E, Gamma-Tocopherol is found in 70% of our diet. Similarly to the rest of the Vitamin E forms, it functions to moisturize and prevent the formation of wrinkles caused by the effects of free-radicals.Topically applied Vitamin E supports the healing process by reducing inflammation and improving moisture levels in the skin. It can also be used as a primer before applying makeup for a smooth, even complexion. To incorporate Vitamin E in your skincare routine, look for products that contain Tocopherol or Tocotrienol in the ingredients list.

Vitamin A

Topical Vitamin A is more commonly known as Retinoid in the skincare industry. The most studied form called Retinol. Retinol is one of the most effective ingredients to reduce wrinkles, smooth out fine lines, improve skin tone and skin texture - making it a favourite for those looking to achieve a healthy skin complexion. It helps fight signs of aging by encouraging cell renewal and boost production of collagen and elastin in the skin to improve the skin’s elasticity. It also helps improve the appearance of scarring by softening rough patches and unclog pores in those struggling with oily skin and blemishes. However, unlike the rest of the antioxidants on this list, Retinol takes approximately three to six months of regular use with best results occurring at six to 12 months.

Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a naturally occurring polyphenol which is found in grapes, wine, peanuts, cocoa and berries. It mimics the antioxidant activities to protect the body against the effects of free radicals in the body. Resveratrol also helps reduce inflammation by providing a protective lining on the blood vessels and preventing insults or injury. While retinol works wonders for the skin, resveratrol is a much gentler version of retinol to provide soft, firm and even-looking skin. The RNW Der. Special Melatoc Cream is a 3-in-1 cream that harnesses the benefits of resveratrol to fade skin pigmentation, strengthen the skin barrier and elasticity.

Now that you have learned about the five most efficient antioxidants in skincare, which one would you include in your skincare routine? Let us know in the comments below!