7 Effective Antioxidants To Add to Your Skin Care Routine

If you find that you justify this second glass of wine on a weekday with "the antioxidants", you may be on the right track – especially with regard to skin care. However, before uncorking another bottle or investing in a product with a variety of wellness buzzwords, it's important to understand what antioxidants really are and what effects they have on your body, and consequently on beauty.

What are antioxidants and free radicals?

As one of the most frequently mentioned health properties, we know that antioxidants are beneficial for our skin, but how exactly? Before we look at the solution they offer, let's start with the problem: free radicals. Certain environments (read: air pollution, intense solar radiation) can cause atoms in our body to split, causing the now singular electrons to jump around to find another electron to work with.

“Molecules strive to have a pair of electrons in their outer shells. So if they lose an electron, they become unstable, ”explains Dr. Hooman Khorasani, chief physician for dermatological and cosmetic surgery at Mount Sinai health system, "Free radicals try to regain this electron by oxidizing other molecules like the cell's own DNA, enzymes and proteins."

Benefits of antioxidants for your skin

oxidation affects the body as well as a car: it accelerates aging. In their search for a new coupling, free radicals damage healthy cells and damage our bodies. It is known that a higher content of free radicals catalyzes diseases such as diabetes, heart diseases and even cancer, and contributes to faster aging by weakening the elasticity of the skin. Fortunately, there are antioxidants that stop free radicals in their tracks without adding Dr. Khorasani added to become free radicals yourself. Preventing free radical damage isn't the only value of antioxidants. In maintaining our cell health, they naturally moisturize and reduce inflammation in our skin.

Antioxidant infographic

Types of antioxidants

While antioxidants occur naturally in our bodies, we can also increase our antioxidant levels with various naturally occurring nutrients. "Products full of antioxidants protect the skin in the long term." Eminence Organics Lead skin trainer Natalie Pergar explained. "Antioxidants benefit … by fighting both external and internal signs of aging, preventing free radical damage, reducing surface inflammation and increasing collagen production to keep skin cells firm and youthful."

Mangosteens

xanthones

It is a favorite fruit of wellness experts Mangosteen, which intuitively has nothing to do with mangoes. It was named Queen of Fruits by Queen Victoria for its superior taste. The super fruit is also full of antioxidants called xanthones, which protect the cells, reduce inflammation, lower blood sugar levels and prevent environmental and anti-fruit. inflammatory damage to the skin. Studies have shown that mangosteen extracts can protect against UV damage, which causes fine lines, wrinkles and age spots and supports the appearance of elasticity in the skin, which keeps the complexion radiant and full. However, the biological activities of this compound are not only antioxidative. It has also been shown to be anti-allergic, antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral.

Vitamin E.

Vitamin E is naturally produced and stored by your body as needed. It can also be consumed over avocados, almonds and leafy greens and is known for its effectiveness against dark spots and protecting the skin from Photoaging. It is also particularly strong when combined with vitamin C for an evening skin tone.

orange tree

vitamin C

Citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, grapefruits and passion fruits stop cell degeneration with this powerful free radical neutralizer and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles Protection against and healing of UV damage (goodbye dark spots!) For more radiant skin.

All citrus fruits contain naturally occurring amounts of vitamin C, which serves as a powerful antioxidant with unlimited benefits for every skin type

"All citrus fruits contain naturally occurring amounts of vitamin C, which serves as a powerful antioxidant with unlimited benefits for every skin type," confirms Brian Goodwin, Eminence Organics International Trainer.

Increasing collagen production and cell regeneration – the common targets of free radicals – not only does this Vitamin C reduces the appearance of uneven skin tone, but smoothes the skin texture and improves the overall appearance of the skin, making you look younger and longer. In short: Vitamin C is one of the most valuable players in skin care, or, according to Natalie, "an all-round savior (of the skin)".

polyphenols

Like mangosteen, cocoa is considered an "antioxidant powerhouse" that contains antioxidants called polyphenols. "Cocoa not only smells delicious, it is also rich in antioxidants that work wonders to smooth your skin," says Natalie. polyphenols Defend plants against radiation (which means UV damage for us). This protection for your complexion Reduces fine lines and wrinkles and leaves your skin looking plump, hydrated and rejuvenated.

flavonoids

These natural pigments that Protective plants at the cellular level are also responsible for vibrant colored plants such as strawberries. They are one of the reasons why fruits and vegetables are nutritious, relieve inflammation and help us avoid UV damage and light aging.

Acai bowl

anthocyanins

This type of flavonoid occurs in foods that appear purple, blue or black like berries and acai and are associated with the treatment of a number of diseases such as high blood pressure and colds. It also slows down photoaging, protects against sun damage, stress and pollution, and prevents collagen loss.

lycopene

Lycopene is another pigment in red fruits and vegetables (like tomatoes and red currants). It protects plants from minor damage and helps manage the environmental impact on our own bodies. Ironic, Lycopene actually reduces the reddening of our skin caused by UV damage and also fends off light aging.

As we get older, you can incorporate several antioxidant-rich products into your everyday life (as well as a more comprehensive one in general) Daily routine) is crucial for the longevity of your skin. Whether you're reaching for a vitamin C serum, applying a cocoa mask at home, or upgrading your daily smoothie to an avocado almond milk mangosteen acai bowl, there are plenty of ways to get enough antioxidants into your system Filter to free radicals to stop their traces and you will soon reap the benefits both inside and out.

Find out more about the Mangosteen collection with antioxidants that improve the appearance of the vitality and radiance of your skin. Visit an Eminence Organics partner spa to receive personalized recommendations and learn how to incorporate antioxidants into your skin care routine.