By now you’ve probably heard of antioxidant ingredients in your skincare products but, do you know why you should be adding them into your routine?
One example our Estheticians like to use is to think of your skin as a sliced apple. When left out for a few hours you’ll notice it starts to turn brown. This is part of the oxidation process of free radicals in our environment (which include air pollution, smoke and the ozone layer and of course UVA and UVB rays). These free radicals are responsible for breaking down our skin’s collagen and attacking the overall health of our skin resulting in dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles as well as loose, saggy skin. Using an antioxidant along with an SPF in your morning routine gives your skin an extra boost of protection from those pesky free radicals. Here’s a little graphic:
Antioxidants are our skin’s superheroes that neutralize those free radicals to help keep your skin bright, healthy and happy! By far the most “famous” antioxidant is Vitamin C. Traditionally, Vitamin C’s have been formulated with an ingredient called l-ascorbic acid. This is Vitamin C in its most potent and unstable form (meaning it can oxidize easily and should be stored in a cool, dry place and in amber or opaque packaging. It also can be a bit harsh for those with sensitive skin.
Fortunately, in the past few years cosmetic chemists have been able to formulate Vitamin C including ingredients such as Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate and tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate which are much more stable and gentle forms of vitamin C and better options for those suffering from certain skin conditions and sensitive skin.
Although Vitamin C is by far the most popular antioxidant there are some other great options of antioxidants to add into your routine!
