Antioxidants in Skincare and Their Role in Fighting Aging

Taking care of your skin is something that should be a lifelong habit. Your skin, or dermis, is technically the body’s largest organ — and it’s completely exposed to dirt, chemicals, and the elements.

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Luckily, there are proactive steps you can take to protect and nourish your skin. By forming solid skincare habits you can lower your risk of skin cancers and even prevent signs of aging. One of the best ways you can pamper your skin is through the use of antioxidants in your skincare routine.

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In this article, we’ll cover exactly what antioxidants are, which types of skin care products contain them, and how they play a role in fighting skin aging.

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What Are Antioxidants?

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Antioxidants are countless natural and man-made substances that may help prevent or delay cell damage. It is thought that antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin A, prevent damage to our cells by scavenging free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that build up in cells and can cause harm to them and other molecules. 

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This damage caused by free radicals can lead to disease, aging, and more serious health issues like cancer. It’s believed that antioxidants play a major role in slowing down the effects of free radicals. 

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How Antioxidants Fight Aging in the Skin

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Antioxidants are thought to help stimulate or encourage the skin to produce more collagen, elastin, and other skin proteins which help maintain a youthful appearance.

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By ‘scavenging’ free radicals, these substances can fight against and even correct the visible signs of aging like wrinkles, breakouts, and uneven skin tone. This leaves your skin less inflamed, more even in tone, and looking plump and youthful. 

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Types of Products with Antioxidants

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So many skincare products and makeups today contain more form of antioxidants for an extra skincare boost. Your dermatologist may recommend that you try more targeted treatments with specific antioxidants like:

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• Vitamin C Serums: Vitamin C is incredibly well-studied and is thought to have lots of benefits such as aiding collagen production and fading dark spots for a firm, even complexion. It’s important to always use sunscreen when incorporating Vitamin C serums into your skincare routine.
• Niacinamide Serums: This antioxidant, which is also called Vitamin B3, can possibly reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Niacinamide is often used to treat skin conditions like rosacea and acne and is ideal for sensitive skin.
• Retinol (Vitamin A) Creams and Serums: Retinol is derived from Vitamin A. Both over-the-counter retinol and prescription forms of vitamin A (such as retinoids like tretinoin) can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and may improve discoloration.

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If you’re curious about whether incorporating antioxidants into your skincare routine could be right for you, be sure to have a thorough conversation with your dermatologist!

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The information on this site is for informational purposes only and should not replace direct medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider.

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Sources:

“Everything You Need To Know About Antioxidants.” The Cleveland Clinic.

“What Can Vitamin C Do for Your Skin?.” The Cleveland Clinic.

“Top 6 Benefits of Niacinamide.” The Cleveland Clinic.

“Retinol.” The Cleveland Clinic.