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Antioxidant skincare products FAQs

Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which are reactive, unstable molecules that can lead to skin damage and illness. Although free radicals are made naturally in the body, often as a result of stress, they can also be caused by external factors such as environmental pollutants and UV radiation. The cell damage caused by free radicals can cause a range of issues such as autoimmune conditions, cancer, and aging skin.

Antioxidants work to combat this oxidative stress by preventing the free radicals from damaging cells. Multiple vitamins and minerals are classed as antioxidants and should be included in your diet to help prevent this damage. Used in skincare products, antioxidants work to protect the skin and promote a healthy complexion. 

Multiple natural antioxidant ingredients are used in a variety of skincare products:

  • Vitamin A: This is found naturally in many food sources such as dairy products, oily fish, and leafy vegetables. Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A and is used as an active ingredient in skincare products.
  • Vitamin C: Commonly found in fruits and vegetables, vitamin C is also known as ascorbic acid and is a powerhouse antioxidant ingredient in a variety of skincare solutions. 
  • Vitamin E: This wonder vitamin occurs naturally in foods such as nuts, seeds, eggs, and tomatoes. It also has numerous benefits when used in products such as creams and serums. 
  • Selenium: A mineral found in products such as wholegrains, Brazil nuts and poultry, selenium is used in skincare as an antioxidant with complexion-brightening benefits. 
  • Zinc: Found in food such as beef, shellfish, and seeds, zinc is important for regulating hormones and boosting your immune system. It also has anti-inflammatory properties when used on the skin.

Antioxidants have various benefits for the skin and can help promote a healthy complexion, whatever your skin type:

  • Anti-aging: Antioxidant skincare boosts collagen and cell function, helping to promote a smooth complexion and elasticity. 
  • Brightens skin: Antioxidants, especially vitamin C, can brighten the complexion by reducing dark spots and evening out the skin tone. 
  • Promotes clear skin: Anti-inflammatory properties can help keep pores clear and reduce blemishes as well as soothe and calm the skin.
  • Prevents damage: UV damage and pollution can cause dryness and premature aging. Antioxidants can protect the skin and keep it hydrated. 

Here are some pointers for incorporating antioxidants into your regimen:

  • Select the right product: Choose from antioxidant face serums, eye creams, and v, featuring a range of antioxidants that are formulated to target key skin concerns. 
  • Use in the AM: Because your skin is exposed to environmental pollutants throughout the day, use antioxidants as part of your morning routine to help protect against free radicals. 
  • Target your skin concerns: Ensure you choose products designed for your skin type and combat the skin concerns that matter most to you. This could be signs of aging, dullness, dark spots, or blemishes. 
  • Use wisely alongside other products: If your current routine incorporates ingredients such as retinol, it's important to use antioxidant skincare products carefully. Avoid combining vitamin C with retinol, as they work in different pH environments and don't mix well. Instead, use retinol at night before bed. However, some ingredients do work well when applied with antioxidants, such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. 
     

Generally, antioxidants are safe to use on all skin types. If you have sensitive skin, you might want to gradually build up your usage over a few days or weeks. Vitamin E is often combined with vitamin C for the most effective results. 

While there isn't one antioxidant that's more effective than another, it's important to make sure the skincare products you use are formulated to target the key concerns of your skin type. 

Ultimately, antioxidants have a range of properties that can be beneficial for all skin types, no matter your age. 

Because antioxidants are less stable compared to other skincare ingredients, storing them correctly is essential to preserve their potency and prevent oxidation. Otherwise, they may not function properly, reducing their effectiveness in neutralizing free radicals.. This is why they come in airtight and light restrictive packaging. 

Try antioxidant products by ZO® Skin Health today

Discover our advanced selection of antioxidant skincare products and transform your skincare regimen. Need any advice or want more information about our products? Get in touch with our specialist team of ZO® Skincare Specialists today. 

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