The use of antioxidants in diet and skincare
There are many habits we can introduce into our routine that require minimal effort on our part, yet yield remarkable results over time. One method is to incorporate antioxidants into our diet and, why not, into our skincare.
What are antioxidants?
Antioxidants are nutrients that, as their name suggests, prevent cell oxidation and degradation. This normally occurs due to exposure to free radicals, but also with aging. Antioxidants support cell integrity, help the body function properly, strengthen the immune system, and prevent infections.
What are free radicals?
Free radicals are unstable molecules that every organism produces as a reaction to harmful environmental factors (UV radiation, pollution), but also as a result of unhealthy habits: alcohol consumption, tobacco, processed or fried foods. They can damage cells, promote cholesterol deposition, and premature aging of the body. Other causes of free radical imbalances in the body can be diabetes, surgery, stress, unhealthy diet, and many others.
Some examples of antioxidants
Antioxidants can be found in foods, dietary supplements, and skincare products. Among the most common types of antioxidants are: Vitamin C (boosts immunity, protects cells, supports collagen production in the body, the vascular system, and reduces fatigue), Vitamin E (protects cells, protects the vascular system, and boosts immunity), Vitamin A (boosts immunity and protects skin cells), Resveratrol (prevents cellular and neuronal aging and protects the cardiovascular system), Lutein (protects the eyes against harmful factors), Selenium (protects cells, boosts immunity, and maintains hair and nail health), and Zinc (boosts immunity, maintains hair and nail health, and skin health).
Antioxidants we can't do without
Resveratrol is found in grapes, berries, cocoa, peanuts, and red fruits, and of course in skincare products. Applied before sun exposure, it reduces the harmful effects of free radicals and fights against skin cancer cells.
Vitamin C is one of the most powerful antioxidants for the skin. Since it is not naturally produced by the body, it must be carefully included in our diet. Among the foods rich in vitamin C are kiwi, broccoli, parsley, citrus fruits, sea buckthorn, and blackcurrants.
What foods contain antioxidants?
Antioxidants are found especially in vegetables and fruits, but also in meat. Some fruits rich in antioxidants are blueberries, citrus fruits, cherries, apples, raspberries, grapes, tomatoes, blackcurrants, bananas, kiwi, strawberries. And among vegetables, we find beetroot, lentils, peas, carrots, spinach, cauliflower, cabbage, celery, or cucumber. Other foods rich in antioxidants are green tea, red wine, soy, dark chocolate, oregano, nuts, vegetable oils.
Antioxidants in skincare
To keep our skin clean, bright, and healthy for as long as possible, in addition to a diet rich in antioxidants, we can look for skincare products that have them on their ingredient list. This way, we double the effect of a healthy diet, and this will also be visible on our skin.
Some of our antioxidant-rich products include Lumiere depigmenting serum (rich in Vitamin C and E), gold and hyaluronic acid set (rich in Vitamin C, E, and Resveratrol), Soultree Indian anti-wrinkle cream (rich in Vitamin E and Resveratrol) and Blancreme antioxidant facial kit.
Include antioxidants in your diet and skincare routine. You will notice that, over time, your skin will become cleaner and brighter.
