Benefits Of Antioxidants For The Skin

Antioxidants are effective substances to look for in the products you use for your skincare routine. In general, antioxidants protect the skin by limiting the production of free radicals, which can damage it.

By using products that contain antioxidants daily, you can reduce freckles (spots caused by long exposure to the sun), fight the visible signs of aging and calm skin inflammations. Some antioxidants moisturize the skin and increase moisture retention by reducing its dull complexion.

What are Antioxidants?

Antioxidants (found in blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries) are molecules that help fight free radicals present in the human body. These free radicals are compounds that can result to damage if their levels get too high in the body. Free radicals can be responsible for various diseases including diabetes, heart disease and cancer. 

In accordance with livestrong.com, while antioxidants confer many benefits, taking too much of one or a few antioxidants at once or taking high doses over a long period can lead to problems. A meta-analysis of studies done by Cleveland Clinic found that beta-carotene supplements raised the risk of mortality significantly and slightly raised the risk of cardiovascular disease. 

Also, a study published in the November 1996 "Journal of the National Cancer Institute" found that smokers who took beta-carotene supplements had an increased risk of lung cancer compared to those who didn't take the supplement. Another well-studied antioxidant that may cause harm when consumed in excess is vitamin E. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, doses above 150 IU per day began to raise the risk of death, with the risk rising along with the dose. Doses of 50 to 400 IU per day have been linked to an increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke.

In addition, free radicals contribute to faster aging by weakening the skin's elasticity as they target to oxidize healthy skin cells thereby accelerating the aging process. This process is called oxidative stress and manifests itself on the outer layer of the skin in the form of wrinkles.

In accordance to pubmed.gov, oxidative stress is defined as a disturbance in the balance between the production of reactive oxygen species (free radicals) and antioxidant defenses, is discussed in relation to its possible role in the production of tissue damage in diabetes mellitus.

Antioxidants are effective substances to be on the lookout for in the products you prefer for your skincare routine. In general, antioxidants protect the skin by limiting the production of free radicals, which can damage it.

Constantly using products that contain antioxidants daily, you stand a greater chance of reducing freckles (spots caused by long exposure to the sun), fight the visible signs of aging and calm skin inflammations. Most antioxidants help moisturize the skin and increase moisture retention by reducing its dull complexion.

They Help Reduce Signs of Aging:

Oxidative stress breaks down collagen, hinders the skin's natural repair process and triggers inflammation; The results are the formation of wrinkles, loose and blemished skin plus acne. By eliminating free radicals, antioxidants can help prevent, correct these visible marks and give the skin a more youthful appearance.

Antioxidants contribute to skin repair. Inflamed skin prevents the rejuvenation process. By reducing inflammation, antioxidants allow the skin to repair itself and correct visible damage. Some antioxidants, such as vitamin C, can also stimulate the production of collagen, which is vital for young skin.

They are a Defense Against Pollution:

Environmental pollutants can lead to sagging, wrinkles and dull skin tone.

They Help Prevent Sunburn:

They prevent skin inflammation due to the sun's harmful rays, preventing burns and providing greater protection against sun damage and photoaging.

Helps to Hold the Skin Firm: As time goes, the skin loses its firmness therefore antioxidants ensure this process is slowed down while the skin regains a more youthful appearance for a longer period of time.

Antioxidants make the skin tone brighter meanwhile free radicals along with long-lasting exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays create changes in melanin production thereby causing dark spots to form alongside making the skin tone uneven. Antioxidants on the other hand prevent abnormal skin pigmentations.

However, in accordance to forksoverknives.com, the best way to get your healthy share of antioxidants is to focus on eating a variety of whole plant foods. People who eat predominantly plant-based are at lower risk of Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and certain types of cancer.

All in all, eat a well balanced diet meal, and protect your skin with healthy skin care product! Share this blog with your family and friends to continue to spread the word!

 

Sources

What Are Antioxidants? A Myth-Busting, No-Nonsense Guide (forksoverknives.com)

The Effects of Too Many Antioxidants | livestrong

What is oxidative stress? - PubMed (nih.gov)