Free radicals can damage proteins, lipids and other building blocks in the skin. Over time this contributes to a more tired look, with uneven tone, fine lines and loss of bounce. Their numbers rise especially with strong sun, pollution, smoking and stress.
Skin has its own antioxidant defence, but it can become overloaded. Antioxidants in skincare give it extra support and help protect against these everyday stresses.
Different antioxidants work in slightly different ways, and several of them reinforce each other. Vitamins E and C are a classic pairing, and ferulic acid can help keep them stable. That is why formulas often combine several antioxidants.
How to use: Antioxidants work well in the morning under your sunscreen, since daytime is when skin meets the most sun and pollution. Most are gentle and suit all skin types.
Good to know: Antioxidants do not replace sunscreen, but they are a good complement to it. Several of them, vitamin C in particular, are sensitive to light and air, so keep the product tightly closed.
