What Are Free Radicals?

Free radicals are unstable molecules that are missing an electron. They are formed due to various factors, such as UV radiation, pollution, stress, and even normal metabolic processes in the body. These unstable molecules seek to stabilize themselves by "stealing" electrons from other cells, causing oxidative stress.

How Do Free Radicals Damage the Skin?

When free radicals attack skin cells, they cause damage to essential cell structures like DNA, proteins, and lipids. This can lead to: 

1. Premature aging: Free radicals break down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and fine lines.
2. Hyperpigmentation: They can cause an overproduction of melanin, resulting in dark spots or uneven skin tone.
3. Inflammation: Free radical damage triggers inflammatory responses, which can worsen skin conditions like rosacea, eczema, or acne. 
4. Barrier damage:They can impair the skin’s natural protective barrier, leaving it more susceptible to irritation and dehydration.

How Do Antioxidants Protect the Skin?

Antioxidants are molecules that can donate an electron to free radicals without becoming unstable themselves. This neutralizes free radicals and prevents them from causing further damage. Antioxidants work in several ways to protect the skin:

1. Neutralizing Free Radicals: By stabilizing free radicals, antioxidants stop the oxidative chain reaction, reducing skin damage.
2. Supporting Skin Repair: Antioxidants can boost collagen production, helping the skin repair itself after free radical damage.
3. Reducing Inflammation: Many antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties, calming irritated skin and reducing redness.
4. Brightening the Skin: Some antioxidants, like vitamin C, inhibit excess melanin production, helping to reduce dark spots and promote an even skin tone.

Common Antioxidants in Skincare:
Vitamin C: Brightens skin, stimulates collagen, and fights free radicals.
Vitamin E: Moisturizes and repairs the skin barrier, while neutralizing oxidative damage.
Green tea: Contains polyphenols that reduce inflammation and protect against UV damage.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Reduces oxidative stress, improves skin texture, and reduces redness.

Incorporating antioxidants into your skincare routine can help protect your skin from the damaging effects of free radicals, promoting a healthier, more youthful complexion.