Antioxidants: What can they do for your skin?

Nowadays, antioxidants are often used as one of the selling points of skin products. It has also become a well-known ingredient for food, beverages, and cosmetics. However, many are still not familiar with the power that this nutrient holds, even to what it is. 

Antioxidants, in the simplest sense, are one of the guardians of our body. They protect the body and limit free radical production. Free radicals are harmful chemicals from the environment that can affect your body down to cellular levels if left unchecked. Antioxidants also help slow down aging and keep your skin glowing—in a natural way!

For example, vitamins such as Vitamin A, C, and E, act as antioxidants. Minerals like manganese and selenium are notable antioxidants, too—along with so much more. These can give our body a lot of benefits, not just for your internal organs, but for your appearance too! You can get antioxidants by eating fresh fruits and vegetables, hydrating, and living that healthy and balanced lifestyle.

It’s a good thing that antioxidants are natural skincare ingredients but there’s more to them that can benefit you—especially your skin—that is left to explore. So, here’s what can help you get to know more about this powerful nutrient.

1. It brightens your skin.

Antioxidants enhance the health of your skin. Vitamin C has the best antioxidant properties for stimulating reactions in your skin that affect collagen production. Collagen is the protein found in our skin that makes it strong and elastic, so if your body benefits from healthy collagen production, the positive effects will become visible in your skin. 

With continuous use of Vitamin C, whether from food, supplements, or skincare products, your skin can look more youthful and plump. This is because antioxidants firm up your skin and solve uneven skin tone as well.

Antioxidants, particularly Vitamin C, can be obtained from citrus fruits, cruciferous vegetables (ex. broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower), and bell peppers (any colors) to name a few.

2. It keeps your skin hydrated.

Another reason to choose products with antioxidants is to ensure that your skin is moisturized. Antioxidants help your skin become softer and more nourished. And, the best vitamin that can give you that glow is Vitamin E. 

Vitamin E can be found in nuts and seeds. Avocado, plant-based oils, peanut and peanut butter, almonds, and sunflower seeds are some of the go-to sources of this antioxidant. Of course, drinking enough water every day will also do your skin wonders. 

Simply put, Vitamin E helps your skin heal faster. It also builds up your skin’s natural barrier to keep your skin adequately hydrated. So be sure not to skip your go-to moisturizer!

3. It can slow premature skin aging.

When your skin is exposed to pollutants, it speeds up the aging process of your skin. Antioxidants can help your skin fight off the effects of premature aging. It can smooth out wrinkles, reduce fine lines, and soften the bumps on your skin. 

You can rely on Vitamin As like retinol to work on this aspect. These antioxidants support the different layers of your skin to sustain collagen formation. They also make your skin look and feel rejuvenated and improve eye skin health.

Vitamin A-rich foods include sweet potatoes, carrots, peas, pumpkins, and milk. On the other hand, retinol can be found in animal-based sources like animal liver, mackerel, and salmon. Try to make a medley of these healthy ingredients (at a balanced pace, of course), and see how your skin improves!

4. It can soothe your skin and prevent acne.

Hormones, pollution, stress—these are not the only ones to blame for acne build-up in your skin. Free radicals also have the strength to cause clogging in your pores, resulting in acne. 

Antioxidants can help you get rid of pimples with their anti-inflammatory capabilities. Vitamin E, for example, manages the repair system of your skin to lessen the tendency of acne marks to appear. Niacinamide also reduces the redness of your pimples. So, be sure to check these antioxidants out as you build your skincare routine.

5. It can protect you from harmful UV exposure.

It is common knowledge that the sun is not always in favor of the skin. Aside from that, it can also cause inflammation and sun damage like rosacea (redness of the face), acne, and enlarged pores. 

With Vitamin B3, an antioxidant you will often see in sunscreens, your skin will have an extra protective layer that will shield you from the harmful radiation of the sun. Using sunscreen consistently will also keep your skin vibrant as you get older.

Bottom line: Antioxidants work wonders to keep your skin healthy.

Antioxidants are the natural way to get that natural glow up. They are best at protecting your skin and your body from the effects of stress and aging. Reap its benefits by pairing it with a healthy lifestyle and a regular skincare routine. Your skin will thank you lots later!