Free radicals or oxidants are a group of oxidizing chemicals that hurt the cells in the body. Let's remember a school chemistry course: every atom has a nucleus and electrons around it. Ideally, electrons are "stocked" and in balance. Sometimes an electron lacks a pair, it turns into a free radical, which seeks to take this electron from another atom. This triggers an endless chain reaction, and if it is not stopped, the oxidative (oxidative) process is triggered, which causes inflammation - and they, in turn, lead to the development of chronic diseases and the acceleration of the aging process.
Antioxidants come to the rescue in the fight against oxidants (which is easy to guess). These are substances that prevent cell destruction and inhibit the processes triggered by free radicals. To prevent oxidative processes throughout the body, it is necessary to saturate the diet with antioxidants, and cosmetics with antioxidants help to cope with the external signs of aging.
In general, all antioxidants used in the manufacture of cosmetics are equally effective in fighting free radicals. However, many of them have many other properties, from moisturizing to fighting acne. Here are some popular antioxidants that work best for every skin type.
Vitamin C:
Vitamin C (aka ascorbic acid) is one of the most popular antioxidants in skincare. It effectively reduces oxidative stress and inhibits the development of inflammatory processes. Vitamin C is especially good at evening out skin tone, giving it a healthy glow and fighting fine wrinkles.
Which type of skin is suitable: In general, vitamin C is suitable for everyone, but it is important to consider that vitamin C itself does not have moisture-retaining properties, therefore, owners of dry and sensitive skin are advised to use it together with moisturizing ingredients - squalane, glycerin or hyaluronic acid.
Vitamin E:
In addition to reducing the signs of aging, vitamin E stimulates cell regeneration after exposure to ultraviolet rays. According to several dermatological studies, products containing vitamin E can lighten age spots, even out complexion, and make stretch marks and scars less noticeable. In addition, vitamin E has a strong anti-aging effect: it can stimulate collagen production and reduce wrinkles.
Suitable for skin type: Vitamin E is a real salvation for dry skin. It not only fights free radicals and protects against aging, but also effectively moisturizes the skin. Unlike many other ingredients, vitamin E works quite mildly, therefore it is suitable even for thin and sensitive skin.
Niacinamide:
Niacinamide is one of the two most common forms of vitamin B3. In addition to protecting cells from free radical damage, its main property is the ability to restore and strengthen the skin's protective barrier. At the same time, it perfectly moisturizes and evens out skin tone and relief.
Suitable for Skin Type: Thanks to its ability to restore the skin's lipid barrier, niacinamide is suitable for everyone. It will moisturize dry skin and "seal" moisture in the neck. If the skin is oily, the product will do an excellent job of regulating the production of sebum and reducing the amount of inflammation.
Retinol:
Probably the most popular and effective ingredient for fighting to age and improving the appearance of skin. As a result of numerous clinical studies, it has been revealed that retinol can stimulate cell metabolism, enhance the production of natural collagen, and even repair damaged DNA.
Which skin type is suitable: With all the effectiveness of retinol, it has one significant drawback - it acts very aggressively and can cause irritation and even allergies. It is still better for people with especially thin and sensitive skin to refuse it, to avoid unpleasant consequences.
Polyphenols:
Polyphenols are a group of plant antioxidants. In the composition of cosmetics, two of them can most often be found - green tea and resveratrol. The main function of polyphenols in cosmetics is protection. They strengthen the skin's natural barrier, protecting it from the harmful effects of the environment, in particular, UV damage (of course, in tandem with SPF). In addition, these antioxidants can stimulate the regeneration of skin cells, making them smoother and healthier.
What type of skin is suitable: There are no restrictions here. Polyphenols are quite a delicate ingredient that suits all skin types. However, all-natural ingredients often cause allergies and other individual reactions. Test a small area of skin before applying the product all over your face.
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