What Are Antioxidants, And What Do They Do For Your Skin?
You hear the word “antioxidant” all the time nowadays, but what the heck is an antioxidant? Why are “oxidants” something we need to be “anti,” in the first place?
According to Dr. Lauri Wright Ph.D., R.D., L.D., “Antioxidants are compounds found in food that stop or delay damage to the cells.” (https://www.self.com/story/what-antioxidants-are-and-actually-do) They work by helping the body to clean up waste products (also known as free radicals) inside the cells. Think of them as cell housekeeping- the more staff you have a dusting, tucking in the sheets, and scrubbing the tub, the cleaner the cell becomes, helping it to function at optimal, healthy levels.
How Do Antioxidants Help My Skin?
Glad you asked! There are so many benefits of antioxidants for the skin.
First, antioxidants are anti-inflammatory, which allows the skin to even skin tone and helps to reduce acne and new wrinkles from developing.
Antioxidants also help the skin to stay firm, again, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, especially around the eyes. Vitamins C and E are especially helpful in this regard (both of which are powerful antioxidants).
Antioxidants can also help to repair blemishes such as skin damage and scars. They stimulate blood flow to the skin, which helps with the production of new skin cells. More new skin cells, less tough, wrinkly, damaged skin. Awesome, right?
Finally, antioxidants can help prevent cancer, as many antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C, and E have anticarcinogenic properties.
Sounds Good! So How Do I Get More Antioxidants In My Life?
Your diet is the easiest and most efficient way to include more antioxidants in your life. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables helps, especially if they are raw. If you do cook them, try a fast-and-hot approach rather than a low-and-slow preparation.
Also, be sure to “eat the rainbow,” as there are many different kinds of antioxidants, and they are acquired by the body from many different sources. Aim to have at least three colors on your plate at each meal- bonus points for more!
The next best way to get more antioxidants is via the skincare products that you use. Aim for products that have vitamins A, C, and E. Selenium, lutein, and lycopene are also useful. Our Anti-Aging Skincare Kit has many of these nutrients in it. Check it out here! (https://rhoskincare.com/products/rh-organics-anti-aging-skin-care-kit)