No matter where you are, when talking about skincare and general health we are always told about antioxidants. Beauty products and companies rave about antioxidant powers as well as effects of free radicals and other harmful oxidants. I for one was previously unsure about all of these things, so here is a simple Antioxidant Cheat Sheet.
Antioxidant: Molecule capable of preventing the oxidation of other molecules. They protect your cells from the effects of free radicals.
ex. Beta-carotene, Lycopene, Vitamins A, C, E
Free Radical: Molecules produced when your body breaks down food, or by environmental exposures. Free radicals can damage cells, and may play a role in heart disease, cancer and other diseases.
ex. Tobacco smoke, radiation
Many antioxidants work from within the body such as the ones found in food or supplements.
Antioxidant rich foods:
- Tomatos
- Broccoli
- Spinach
- Berries (All varieties, blackberries, acai etc.)
- Pomegranate
- Teas (particularly GREEN)
- Red grapes & wine (red)
- CHOCOLATE! (dark)
- Oranges and Grapefruit
- Whole Grains
- Almonds
- Fish & vegetable oil
- Turnip greens
Antioxidants such as Vitamin C and E are topical antioxidants - this means they must be placed on the skin in order to take effect. Topical antioxidants are important because they not only directly block the effects of free radicals immediately, but also absorb into the skin to nourish it, repair cells, and inhibit oxidizing agents.
It is important to use a light antioxidant serum at night and during the day. These serums help fight free radicals in turn preventing signs of aging such as wrinkles and skin damage.
There are many antioxidant serums on the market but a good example is the JUICE Beuty Antioxidant Serum (available online at Sephora.com)
This serum helps to prevent aging and also helps to firm and smooth fine lines. Another plus is that it is 100% organic and free of harmful chemicals.
I really hope this helped!
If you have any questions or suggestions please comment below!
xo The Citizen
Photos by The Citizen
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