Antioxidants are substances that protect the skin from the damage caused by the free radicals as well as aggressors such as environmental pollution and UV rays. Skincare formulas often contain antioxidants that contribute with their anti-aging properties.

The most renowned of them are :

Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)

Vitamin E (Tocopherol)

Vitamin B9 (Folic acid)

Resveratrol

Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone)

Ferulic acid

VITAMIN C( L-ASCORBIC ACID)

As an ingredient in cosmetics, it is a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from the free radicals. Free radicals (oxidative stress) break cells down. As we age the ability of our body to fight free radicals is reduced. Moreover, external factors such as air pollution, smoking, alcohol consumption, bad eating habits speed up the production of free radicals.

Stimulates the collagen production from the fibroblasts, cells that reside in the dermis beneath the epidermis layer as well as the elastin synthesis. The number of fibroblasts reduce with the age and so does their activity. As a result, the skin loses its elasticity. Skin regeneration, also decreases. Vitamin C contributes to skin’s elasticity and tightening.

Acts as an inhibitor to the enzyme tyrosinase which means that prohibits the melanin production and in this way decreases hyperpigmentation.

Brightens the skin and helps the skin to get a more even tone.

Enhances the effectiveness of the sunscreen. Vitamin C can’t be used as a protection against sun damage, it only increases the efficacy of sunscreen.

It may take time to see the beneficial effects of the vitamin C on the skin.

COENZYME Q (UBIQUINONE)

It is a potent and essential lipid-soluble antioxidant that acts against free radicals. Slows down the oxidation of the lipids that protect the skin and as result it slows down the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Supports the collagen and elastin production. It is naturally found in our bodies and in the foods that we eat. Decreases as we age.

Can be an ingredient in serums, creams, eye creams and body milks of lotions.

The benefits of Q10 are as follows:

Acts against the free radicals the culprit for wrinkles, sagging skin and hyperpigmentation.

Boosts collagen production, prevents fine lines and wrinkles and smooths those already exist. Also repairs the hydro-lipid barrier. Offers as well UV protection but does not replace the sunscreen.

A nice combination is the use of Vitamin C together with the Coenzyme Q10.

You may find it as an ingredient in sunscreens.

VITAMIN B9 (FOLIC ACID)

It is a powerful active ingredient in skin and sun care formulas.

Contributes to the overall health of the skin. The skin is brighter and healthier, reduces wrinkles, fights photoaging, stimulates skin cells (fibroblasts) to produce collagen.

VITAMIN E (TOCOPHEROL)

Tocopherol is the active form of vitamin E. It is a potent antioxidant that moisturizes the skin as well. Strengthens the lipid barrier and protects against UV rays. It is widely used in skincare products.

RESVERATROL

Resveratrol belongs to a group of compounds called polyphenols. It is found in the skin of grapes and berries, peanuts, pistachios and cocoa powder.

In skincare formulas acts as follows:

Acts against free radicals that accelerate the skin aging

Stimulates collagen production

Improves skin texture

Has anti-inflammatory properties

Protects against UV damages

Resveratrol may be combined with niacinamide and ferulic acid.

FERULIC ACID

It is also a common antioxidant used in skincare formulas. Acts against free radicals and enhances the activity of vitamin C and vitamin E. It is often used in combination with them to obtain optimal benefits.

Antioxidants can be used morning and night. They can be found in toners, essences, serums, creams and face masks. No doubt that some of them are in the ingredients list of the cosmetic products you use.

ASTAXANTHIN

It is a carotenoid, a powerful antioxidant.

 It acts against oxidative stress.

 It protects against UV rays.

 It enhances collagen production and therefore helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

 It has anti-inflammatory effects.