Sometimes we all need a pamper day and just a little time spent on our look can help to boost body confidence & mood. This week as part of self-care Sunday please read this skincare guide written by the amazing Jezelle (@margoonline). #expertadvice
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF ANTIOXIDANTS IN SKINCARE
Do you often deal with stress? Do you regularly maintain protection from photodamage (sun) or bad air pollution? Or maybe you are a workout-junkie who engages in high intensity exercises?
All situations vary, but they all have a similar effect on the body. This effect produces unstable substances in the body, known as free radicals. The name resonates with their nature. Although, our body also needs a healthy balance of free radicals to turn food into energy – medics say that your immune cells also use free radicals to combat infections.
However, excess free radicals in the body eventually causes oxidative stress which can create problems with the skin such as a dull complexion and early wrinkles.
SO, WHAT ARE ANTIOXIDANTS?
Antioxidants are chemical properties in the form of enzymes, vitamins and minerals that maintain healthy cells by working as a defense against excess free radicals – maintaining a good balance.
Evidence on the benefits of antioxidants have been accumulating over years. A Harvard research paper noted ‘antioxidants tend to work best in combination with other nutrients, plant chemicals, and even other antioxidants’. Most of us, consume antioxidants everyday – from carrots, dark chocolate to coffee. Vitamin A, C, E, Coenzyme-Q10 and Zinc are good sources of antioxidant.
The use of antioxidants in skincare has been derived from the benefits of various vitamins, minerals or enzymes.
Antioxidant benefits include:
• Protection from photodamage (excess sun exposure)
• Maintained skin hydration
• Anti-ageing due to the benefits such as Vitamin A, E and Zinc
• Brightening – correcting uneven skin tone with Vitamin C and Beta Carotene
Many specialists conclude that antioxidants can be both internal and topically beneficial.
TRENDING | 3 TOPICAL ANTIOXDANT PRODUCTS FOR THE SKIN
- Kiehl’s Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate
Packed with nourishing ingredients such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and glycerin, this serum is great for brightening the skin and improving uneven skin tone whilst reducing the appearance of wrinkles and pores. The serum consists of 10.5% L-Ascorbic Acid and 2% Ascorbyl Glucoside. L-Ascorbic acid is one of the most chemically active forms of vitamin C that easily absorbs into the skin. The Derm Review wrote a very informative post on the use of vitamin C in Kiehl’s products.
Kiehl’s Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate Vitamin C is a great source of antioxidant to protect the skin from free radicals and collagen degradation. According to Kiehl’s, this product is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and is a great formulation for those with ageing concerns.
What do reviewers say? | Majority of the reviews are positive with an average rating of 4.3/5.
Reviewers who gave a low rating felt that it irritated their skin or did nothing at all. Whilst, 86% of positive reviews included; instant results, pore refining, improved texture, hydration and radiance. Matured reviewers also said that it helped to improve with fine lines and wrinkles.
Visit Kiehl’s. - ELEMIS Superfood Kefir-Tea Facial Mist
According to Elemis, this facial mist can be used as a primer, toner and setting spray. It is antioxidant rich with ingredients such as Rooibos Tea Extract, Citrus oils, Carrot seed oil. The mist also contains Coconut Water, Aloe Vera and Kefir-ferment which is said to brighten the complexion whilst soothing the skin.
What do reviewers say? | The Superfood Kefir-tea Facial Mist received an average rating of 4.8/5. Over 96% of positive reviews reported the following benefits:
• Improved complexion and even skin-tone
• Great as a 24/7 refreshing application on the skin, keeping the face hydrated
• Contributes to the appearance of smooth skin
• Works well as a primer and setting spray
A very small minority thought the mist was overly fragranced. If you are interested in the Elemis Superfood Mist, it’s good to note that some reviewers recommended to keep the mist in the fridge as it can really enhance the feel of the product on the skin – giving ultimate satisfaction.
Visit Elemis - Sunday Riley Juno Antioxidant + Superfood Face Oil
According to Sunday Riley, this 100% pure plant formula restores and rehydrates the skin’s natural moisture barrier. The antioxidant + Superfood Face Oil is formulated with superfood seed oils – most of which are antioxidant-rich and works together for an instant glow.
Ingredients include oils such as blueberry, cranberry, red raspberry and broccoli – which are all high in Omega 3-6 or 9 posing extra vitamin A, C and E benefits. The oil also contains blackberry seed oil (high source of Vitamin C) and wild carrot seed oil (filled with beta-carotene) to improve the brightness of your skin tone.
What do reviewers say? | With over 1,800 reviews, Sunday Riley Superfood Face Oil has an average rating of 4.5/5. Over 90% of reviewers reported the following benefits:
• Super hydrating, good moisture content and leaves skin plump
• Improved tired and dull complexion
• Suitable for those with acne prone skin and especially dry skin
• Non-irritating and fragrance free
Other reviews varied in negative results with very few reporting breakouts and difficulty in absorption on the skin, some said the oil smelled off whilst others just thought it was okay (not really impressed). However, whilst 2-3% found the oil to cause breakouts or slight irritation, the majority, especially those with oily skin reported no breakout.
Available in the UK from Cult Beauty
Margo Online inspires beauties to further self-care. Knowledge sharing is powerful & it can bring positive impact. Visit http://www.margoonline.co
Author: All views are expressed from personal perspective, research & practice. This blog post contains affiliate links.
References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5514576/
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/antioxidants/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/antioxidants-explained#food-sources
https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=19&contentid=Antioxidants
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