How To Decipher Antioxidants In Skin Care Products

Deciphering Antioxidants In Skincare

We all know that antioxidants help us to fight free radicals that we are exposed to through UV Damage, smoking, smog and other environmental pollutants, but in the complex world of skin care products it can be confusing trying to figure out which antioxidants we need on the ingredient list, and what they actually do.

Here is a breakdown of 6 Major Antioxidants 

found in skin care products

Vitamin C. One of the most important antioxidants, Vitamin C is a powerhouse super skin saver.

*It protects the skin’s cells and support structure from UV damage

*It improves the appearance of sun damaged skin

*it reduces inflammation

*It promotes the production of collagen

* It makes micro – derms and peels more effective

* It boosts the effectiveness of sunscreens

*And overall strengthens the skin’s barrier response.

Idebenone Idebenone is a bioengineered cousin of the human antioxidant CoEnzymeQ10, said to be up to 1000x more effective.

*It targets aging at the cellular source, the mitochondria, where it helps to revitalize the skin’s cells by eliminating excess free radical formation that results from the way skin cells make energy.

* It defends cell membranes

*It has an Environmental Protection Factor of EPF 95, the highest rating of all antioxidants tested.

*It is thought to prevent fine lines and wrinkles and protect skin cells

*The healthier the skin is, the more collagen it produces, which makes it look firmer.

* It reduces inflammatory responses in the skin

*It reduces redness and swelling

Green Tea Because it is packed with polyphenols green tea absorbs really well, reducing inflammation and protecting the skin against UV induced DNA damage.

*In some studies it has been shown to neutralize UV light.

*It is thought to prevent skin cancer

*It rejuvenates skin cells

*It can improve psoriasis and dandruff conditions

*It can soothe acne and lighten skin

*It fights free radicals

*It is a natural anti-inflammatory

Coffee Cherry Coffee Cherries are thought to be exceptionally high in “super” antioxidants.

*It is known to be calming and soothing to the skin

*It has anti-inflamatory properties which reduce redness and swelling

*It protects the integrity of the skin’s elastin and collagen, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Resveratrol protects and defends against free radicals

*It protects against sun damage

*It improves collagen synthesis

*It reduces inflammation

*It reduces cell damage

*some studies have shown that resveratrol can inhibit tumor development

Niacinimide The best of Vitamin B

Niacinamide is the active component in Vitamin B3 and has been shown to strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier and sooth inflammation. This one is definitely on the A-list of supersonic skincare ingredients.

       *It increases ceramide and free fatty acid levels in the skin

* It stimulates microcirculation in the dermis

*It is said to be able to address skin discolorations (often in tandem with Vitamin C and glucosamine)

*It has been shown to reduce acne