Everything Antioxidants
Antioxidants are one of those things you know are good you, but maybe you don’t fully know why they’re so great. Here we discuss why antioxidants are so fantastic for you, and your skin. Plus we will introduce some options we offer right here at Hebe Beauty Bar in Red Deer, AB.
Understanding free radicals
To understand antioxidants you first must learn about their target, free radicals.
Free radicals are oxygen-containing molecules with an uneven number of electrons. The uneven number of electrons makes them unstable and highly reactive with other molecules. As such, the free radical will search for electrons to steal which causes a large chain of chemical reactions in your body.
These reactions are referred to as oxidation or oxidative stress. Oxidization results in damage to DNA, cell membranes, lipids and proteins because when a free radical takes an electron from an important component of a cell, those components lose their ability to function normally, and the accumulation of such damage may cause cell death.
Oxidization can be prevented when there are enough antioxidants present. Antioxidants have lots of unpaired electrons to share with free radicals- neutralizing them in the process. Get the name now antioxidant?
Causes and prevention
On some levels free radicals are completely natural, they are released during exercise and inflammation. They are just another part of our body’s complex systems. Your cells naturally produce some antioxidants on their own. However, as we age our body’s ability to produce antioxidants slows. This, plus the fact that free radicals can be so abundant, it’s important to ensure we are intaking enough antioxidants to prevent oxidative stress.
Environmental risk factors
UV damage
Pollution
Cigarettes
Radiation
Pesticides
Alcohol
Poor diet
Antioxidants and food
Food is the best medicine. A healthy diet is the best way to ensure you’re getting enough antioxidants to combat oxidative stress. You want to ensure you get at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day to glow from the inside out.
Some examples of foods with antioxidants include:
Berries
Citrus fruits
Kale
Carrots
Beets
Broccoli
Nuts
Spinach
Dark chocolate
Antioxidants for Skin
When it comes to skincare, applying antioxidants topically has the added benefit to target the skin directly. Many different ingredients offer antioxidant protection, each with its skin benefit. Below is a list of some of the most common antioxidants found in skincare.
Vitamin C - Antioxidant royalty, vitamin C is easily the most studied antioxidant and a favourite of skin care professionals everywhere. Vitamin C has many benefits such as collagen stimulation, photoprotection, fading hyperpigmentation, and increased wound healing.
Vitamin E - Known for being anti-inflammatory, vitamin E increases wound healing, hydrates dry skin, and treats stretch marks. Helps to stabilize vitamin C.
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) - Suitable for sensitive skin, niacinamide is known for helping improve skin texture and tone. A gentle alternative to retinol and hydroquinone, niacinamide is used to treat fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.
Retinol (Vitamin A) - One of the best treatments for anti-aging retinol accelerates cell turnover and is proven to help even skin texture, and smooth fine lines and wrinkles. Retinol is also known to clear pores and reduce acne.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) - This antioxidant powerhouse is naturally produced by the body but diminishes as we age. CoQ10 is responsible for boosting energy production and protecting skin from environmental stress. CoQ10 is easily absorbed by the skin and helps stimulate collagen production, which helps improve elasticity, texture and tone.
Glutathione - One of the most powerful antioxidants in the body as it is the only one that is intracellular (acts within the cell). Assists with DNA and protein synthesis to create collagen and elastin. Maximizes the effects of vitamin C, vitamin E, and CoQ10.
Vitamin C Types
Vitamin C is the most popular antioxidant in skincare, but something to know when you’re looking at the ingredients list of a product is that vitamin C comes in many forms.
Some names to look for are:
Ascorbic acid: Common form of vitamin C, also known as L-ascorbic acid.
Ascorbic acid USP: USP stands for United States Pharmacopeia, this is the organization that sets the bar for the potency and purity of chemicals. When you see USP on a label, that means a product has been determined to have a very high-purity grade chemical that is safe to be used in many pharmaceutical and personal care products.
Ethyl Ascorbic Acid: Stable form of vitamin C, soluble in both water and oil. This vitamin C easily penetrates the skin.
Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate: Highly stable vitamin C that can penetrate the epidermis and dermis. This form of vitamin C is fat soluble, which allows it to protect fatty tissue from free-radical damage. Pairs well with ascorbic acid and vitamin E.
In addition to the form of vitamin C, potency should be considered. In general, less than 5% is considered low potency and less effective. Over 20% is considered to be too aggressive and drying. Ideal vitamin C concentration is between 5-20%.
Antioxidant Benefits
As noted, antioxidants play a crucial role in skincare due to their ability to combat oxidative stress, a process linked to aging and various skin concerns. Here are several health benefits of antioxidants in skincare:
Neutralizing Free Radicals:
Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, unstable molecules generated by exposure to factors like UV radiation, pollution, and environmental stressors. By neutralizing free radicals, antioxidants help prevent cellular damage, reducing the risk of premature aging.
Anti-Aging Properties:
Antioxidants can mitigate the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. They support collagen production and protect skin elasticity, promoting a more youthful complexion.
Sun Damage Protection:
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun generates free radicals, contributing to sun damage. Antioxidants, especially vitamins C and E, provide an additional layer of defense against UV-induced damage, helping to prevent sunspots and skin aging.
Reducing Inflammation:
They possess anti-inflammatory properties, which are beneficial for individuals with sensitive or inflamed skin conditions. They can soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation.
Brightening Complexion:
Antioxidants like vitamin C can brighten the skin, help fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation, and even out skin tone, resulting in a more radiant complexion.
Enhancing Hydration:
Some antioxidants, such as green tea extract and hyaluronic acid, contribute to skin hydration. They help retain moisture, promoting a plump and supple complexion.
Boosting Skin Repair:
Antioxidants support the skin's natural repair processes. They aid in the regeneration of damaged skin cells, facilitating faster recovery from environmental stressors.
Preventing Premature Aging:
By defending against external aggressors and promoting cellular health, antioxidants contribute to preventing premature aging. This can result in skin that looks and feels healthier over time.
Improving Skin Texture:
Regular use of antioxidants can contribute to smoother skin texture by promoting cell turnover and collagen synthesis. This can lead to a more even and refined skin surface.
Combating Environmental Stressors:
Antioxidants act as a shield against environmental pollutants and toxins. By reducing the impact of these stressors, antioxidants help maintain the skin's overall health and vitality.
Popular antioxidants in skin care products include vitamins C and E, green tea extract, resveratrol, coenzyme Q10, and ferulic acid. Integrating products with a variety of antioxidants into your skincare routine can provide comprehensive protection and enhance the overall health and appearance of your skin.
Find antioxidants at Hebe
At Hebe we have a variety of skincare products and treatments available to up your antioxidant game. There is something for every skin type. If you’re feeling lost book a consultation to discuss your skincare goals with a trained professional.
A powerful combination serum containing 10% Vitamin C, 2% Vitamin E and a combination of proprietary peptides to reduce wrinkles and reverse signs of aging. Skin is glowing, soft and volume is restored.
A powerful serum for skin brightening and anti-aging. Formulated with Arbutin and Resorcinol to naturally lighten and correct darkened areas and 8% Vitamin C to reduce the signs of aging. Skin is left radiant, with a more even tone and texture.
An oil-free serum for anti-aging. Formulated with Vitamin C and a combination of peptides to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
This antioxidant collagen booster firms and reduces signs of aging for younger-looking skin. Enriched with 15% Vitamin C, Vitamin E and 5 Peptides known to improve skin elasticity and promote collagen production for your most luminous youthful-looking skin.
A concentrated antioxidant serum that provides protection against pollution + premature signs of aging while visibly brightening the skin with a subtly luminous, soft-focus finish
A technologically advanced skin brightener clinically proven to increase luminosity, visibly improve skin clarity and fade the appearance of dark spots for a brighter, more even complexion. Non-hydroquinone and non-retinol.
A powerful in-clinic treatment The Perfect Peel is the only peel that includes the powerful antioxidant Glutathione, which lightens and brightens the skin, slows down the aging process and helps prevent wrinkles.
Get Professional, Expert Skin Advice
If you’re overwhelmed by the options, stop by Hebe Beauty Bar in Red Deer to discuss products with one of our skin consultants. You can also book a free skin consultation to discuss our medical aesthetics and skin treatments.
