In the fast-changing world of skincare, one category that will never run out of favour is antioxidants. These multitaskers can counter the harmful chemicals that cause acne, hyperpigmentation, and ageing. However, every antioxidant has a unique portfolio of uses and skin benefits, so finding the right one is essential.
Let’s break down the five best antioxidants for your skin, what they can do, and why you need them:
Antioxidants 101: What Are They?
In a nutshell, antioxidants are chemicals that tackle oxidation, a chemical reaction that forms free radicals in your body. Free radicals are unstable chemicals that cause harm to your body, especially if their quantities get too high. They supercharge cell damage, which may cause premature ageing, hyperpigmentation, and dullness in your skin. This is where topical antioxidants for the skin come to the rescue. They reverse the damaging effects of free radicals to support your skin and its natural processes.
The 5 Best Antioxidants For Your Skin
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerhouse ingredient because it can tackle ageing, acne, and hyperpigmentation. It’s also one of the most studied antioxidants today, making this antioxidant an instant favourite among dermatologists and skin experts. Vitamin C works by boosting collagen production in the skin and fighting photodamage caused by the sun’s UV rays. Of course, don’t forget the cardinal rule of applying vitamin C to your skin: always wear sunscreen. It’s best used in the morning but can also increase sun sensitivity, so lather on some SPF afterwards!
Resveratrol
Renowned as the “longevity molecule”, resveratrol is a potent antioxidant that provides anti-ageing benefits. It’s derived from the skin of grapes and berries, which acts as a defensive armour for the plants. It also harnesses the same reparative effect in the skin to restore its youthful glow. A study from the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology shows that resveratrol shields the skin cells from oxidative stress, which can supercharge ageing. Moreover, it protects the skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. Resveratrol also posits anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe redness and inflammation in the skin.
Ferulic Acid
Ferulic acid is a plant-based antioxidant found in the cell walls of apples, grapes, artichokes, and tomatoes. This ingredient helps reverse the visible signs of ageing, hyperpigmentation, and inflammation in the skin. As a free radical scavenger, ferulic acid targets these unstable atoms to restore your radiance and improve skin texture. However, what sets it apart is that it works better when mixed with other antioxidants, like vitamin C. A study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology suggests that combining vitamin C and ferulic acid enhances the stability of other antioxidants. This means you can reap double the benefits for your skin as these two complement each other well!
Want the best of two powerhouses? When Ferulic Acid and Resveratrol come together, you get one of the most potent antioxidant boosts possible for your skin. Skin Pple’s Youth Shot injects youth and vitality into the skin with 3% Resveratrol and another 3% Ferulic Acid. Expect radiance like none other!
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Niacinamide
Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide works like magic in improving skin texture and tone. Though it’s best known for its anti-inflammatory properties, this antioxidant also helps with fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. Because of its capacity to reduce inflammation, niacinamide can also soothe breakouts, improve skin barrier function, and battle redness. This antioxidant is frequently used to treat rosacea and acne. It’s also great for sensitive skin, as it has no known side effects and is gentler than vitamin C.
Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin comes from the carotenoid family, a group of antioxidants that give foods their bright red and orange tinge. This ingredient reinforces the collagen layer of your skin, which helps eliminate wrinkles and fine lines for a younger complexion. It also helps lighten dark spots, promote hydration in the skin, and fight UV damage, making this antioxidant an ageing powerhouse.
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