The Benefits of Antioxidants in Skincare

We’ve long been told about the benefits of antioxidants in our food and tea but what about our skincare?

As It turns out, our skin just as much benefits from a regular dose of antioxidants and vitamins, the same way our body and immune system does. And the benefits are twofold!

Not only does the skin naturally drink antioxidants, promoting vitality, but they help fight free radicals - molecules responsible for photo-ageing, among other things.

So what are antioxidants exactly and how do we decipher what types our skin and body need in order to feel and look revitalised? Read on for the lowdown on all things antioxidants and skincare below.

What are antioxidants?

Antioxidants, as explained by Harvard University, describe “any compound that can counteract unstable molecules, [known as] free radicals that damage DNA, cell membranes, and other parts of cells.”

Why is this important exactly? Well, free radicals lack certain electrons, so in a bid to obtain them, they actually steal them from other molecules, damaging the molecules in the process. Where antioxidants come in, is that they counteract this process by giving up some of their electrons, and as a result, they act as a natural "off" switch for free radicals.

In neutralising free radicals, antioxidants provide a protective effect on the body and skin, reducing the damage to cell membranes, cellular proteins, lipids an DNA that occur from oxidation (loss of electrons) and therefore lower the risk of being as susceptible to certain diseases and skin damage.

The best part is… these powerhouse defenders (antioxidants) are available in food, tea and skincare and the more consumed, ingested and topically applied the more benefits to body, skin and physical health. 

The most common antioxidants to look out for include: vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, lycopene, lutein, selenium, manganese, zeaxanthin, flavonoids, flavones, catechins, polyphenols and phytoestrogens.

What are the benefits of antioxidants for skin?

Research from numerous studies show antioxidants support the body in so many ways including protection against: heart disease, lung disease, cancer, eye disease and dementia. When it comes to skincare however the benefits are infinite, read more below.

1. Promote collagen production

Research shows vitamin C isn’t just an immunity booster, it’s also responsible for supporting epidermal thickness and promoting collagen production in skin.

This is a key part of why our Hydrating Serum, is packed with vitamin C and Kakadu Plum (also a natural source of vitamin C). Both support supple, revitalised, plump and juicy skin, while counteracting the effects of UV damage, inflammation, photo-aging and wound healing.

2. Minimise pore appearance

Looking for an antidote to the dreaded orange peel skin effect? Vitamin A and C have got you.

We have touched on how vitamin C supports collagen production and plump skin but research shows retinols and retinoids, derivatives of vitamin A, are also potent antioxidants that assist in collagen production and support acne by reducing the clogging of pores, scarring and smoothing out skin surface.

For a daily dose of vitamin C your skin will love, try our Hydrating Serum packed with Kakadu Plum, the number one highest recorded source of vitamin C in the world.

3. Reduce inflammation

Niacinams been gaining attention for its ability to support skin conditions such as acne and eczema. But you may not know niacinamide is also vitamin B3, an antioxidant that helps build proteins in the skin to support a strong barrier function.

In simple terms, consider niacinamide as fuel for skin cells, it works to up lipid levels (ceramides) in skin which support hydration and can improve the appearance of skin tone and texture, research shows.

While another known antioxidant vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) is also a staple skincare active found by science to provide anti-inflammatory benefits reducing swelling and providing a photoprotective effect.

To achieve hydrated, revitalised skin try our Balancing Cleanser and Nourishing Moisturiser both featuring niacinamide. 

4. Soften fine lines

An antioxidant now being hyped as the gentle ‘plant based alternative to retinol’, Bakuchiol is fast gaining popularity for its anti-ageing benefits, with science suggesting it effectively targets wrinkles and fine lines.

A study from the British Association of Dermatologists found bakuchiol has the same anti-aging effects (when applied topically to skin) as retinol and improve the effects of photodamage  - without the stinging or skin scaling effects often experienced from retinol.

Research also shows vitamin C fights against free radicals and counteracts the damaging effects of UV, often responsible for accelerating the ageing process and producing fine lines, wrinkles, discolouration.  

Within Habitual Beauty, you can get a daily fix of bakuchiol with our Hydrating Serum and Rejuvenating Face Oil and boost collagen production with the Advanced Skin + Gut Health Collagen Elixir.

5. Brighten skin tone

Radiant glow? Yes please! If you are not yet already converted to antioxidants then the hope of bright, luminous skin might just get you over the line.

You already know that vitamin C is a powerhouse antioxidant that fights against ageing, UV damage, obvious pores and sagging skin, but did you know it can also brighten dull skin?

Research suggests vitamin C can inhibit melanin production and as a result help fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation while also potentially brightening your skin’s appearance.

To keep skin luminous, use our Balancing Cleanser, Hydrating Serum, Rejuvenating Facial Oil daily for a high dose of Kakadu Plum, a high source of vitamin C, sure to produce bright and refreshed results.