Antioxidants protect the skin by reducing and counteracting free radical production. These free radicals, as a refresher, can assault your skin, damaging healthy skin cells and creating oxidative stress. Antioxidants protect your skin from this and help reduce pigmentation and fine lines and wrinkles. Keep reading to discover our favourite antioxidants that you will want to add to your skincare/self-care routine! 

Antioxidants are an essential part of the puzzle when it comes to anti-ageing skincare and self-care. Not only do these ingredients tackle signs of ageing, but they also work to revitalise dull and tired-looking skin. In a world that has many environmental aggressors such as free radical pollution, sun UV rays and many more, antioxidants are there to step in to protect the skin. They work to create a barrier on the skin to ensure a more youthful complexion is restored and hydration is locked in.

Free Radicals and Antioxidants

Free radicals play a dual role in our body that can be both beneficial and harmful. Our body purposely creates free radicals to neutralize viruses and bacteria. However, too much of it affects the DNA, lipids and proteins that can trigger diseases. These free radicals are unstable, highly reactive molecules that have one or more unpaired electrons. To gain stability, they attack stable molecules, triggering a chain reaction that damages healthy cells. Once an overload of free radicals is present in our system, it causes oxidative stress, or an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the ability of the body to counteract or detoxify their harmful effects.

Environmental factors like radiation from the sun, pollution, radiation, cigarette smoke and other toxic chemicals are also known to trigger the formation of free radicals. Fortunately, studies have shown that the inclusion of antioxidants in your skin care regimen can help your skin fight free radical damage and recover from oxidative stress.

BENEFITS OF ANTIOXIDANTS FOR THE SKIN:

• Correct signs of ageing
• Support cell regeneration
• Boost skin repair
• Brightening
• Even skin tone
• Calm irritation
• Fight against free radicals
• Prevent or delay various types of cell damage
• Boost skin radiance 

OUR FAVOURITE ANTIOXIDANTS: 

VITAMIN C

A favourite among skincare enthusiasts, vitamin C is one of the most studied antioxidants available on the market. A potent antioxidant that is particularly effective in scavenging free radicals, boosting collagen production, reducing signs of ageing, skin dullness and uneven tone. With a range of --- available, y

 But beware, vitamin C is inherently unstable and can lose its potency when exposed to light or air.

Instead, opt for a lower concentration that will still nourish and stop ageing in its tracks. Vitamin C is also loved for its skin-brightening benefits and has even been shown to boost collagen and fade dark spots. This all-rounder antioxidant is a must for any anti-ageing skincare routine.

Our Favourite Vitamin C Products:

• VK6 White Element
• VK6 Collagen Compression

VITAMIN E 

When talking of anti-ageing antioxidants, it is hard to pass over Vitamin E! Very well known within the skincare industry this powerful antioxidant stimulates the skins healing process. Found in numerous skincare products this vitamin also protects the skin against any negative environmental aggressors. These include things like UV light, air conditioning, wind and pollution. Vitamin E is also a very friendly antioxidant, meaning that it is often paired with other active ingredients to supercharge your skincare products. 

Our Favourite Vitamin E Products:

•  VK6 Breast Beauty Firming Lotion

GREEN TEA

Green tea is very high in antioxidants, especially catechins. Its most powerful catechin is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). This multifunctional ingredient is boasting with antioxidative benefits for both your body and skin. Not only does it target signs of ageing and give your skin an antioxidant boost, but it also works to fight against inflammation, collagen breakdown and redness for the skin. 

Green tea also helps to support a faster metabolism and boost your energy. The Journal of Nutrition,​ found that consuming green 625mg per day of green tea catechins may enhance exercise-induced loss of abdominal fat and improve triglyceride levels. 

Our Favourite Green Tea Products:

• VK6 Slim Fit

Final thoughts

Antioxidants are powerful skincare weapons that you honestly need in your everyday routine (we couldn't live without them)! Proven to effectively target and slow down signs of ageing, as well as being able to smooth and repair the skin, they are super hard working to benefit your skin. As one of the most studied categories of ingredients in the skincare and wellness industry, you can bet on it to benefit your skin and health. Another great thing about antioxidants is that it is preventative, so start using it now to reap the rewards!