Antioxidants are molecules whose purpose is to slow down oxidation and protect the body against free radicals.
How it works ?
What is called oxidation is actually a "chemical reaction, often caused by oxygen, in which electrons are removed from an atom or molecule. “according to the Larousse.
About the same thing happens to our skin as it happens to an apple that turns brown, but over several decades!
Free radicals are naturally present in the body. These are molecules that are missing an electron: we speak of paired electrons. They therefore need a pair to be more stable and in this search damage the skin by recovering these molecules.
Antioxidants are useful at this time because they are molecules charged with multiple electrons and have the ability to donate one to free radicals to make it stable and prevent it from damaging the skin.
What are their effects?
These radicals create oxidative stress which causes premature aging of the skin most often accompanied by imperfections.
For what ?
The number of free radicals increases due to several factors such as:
- Pollution
- UV rays
- The stress
- The consumption of cigarettes or alcohol: the hygiene of life in general
- Or lack of sleep...
Where to find it in food?
Luckily there are ways to slow it all down with these famous antioxidants! Not only through food but also through different active ingredients present in cosmetics!
The best known antioxidants are:
- ß-carotene (provitamin A)
- Ascorbic acid (vitamin C)
- Tocopherol (vitamin E)
- Polyphenols
- Lycopene (widespread among plants)
- Tannins (in cocoa, coffee, tea, grapes, etc.)
- Anthocyanins (especially in red fruits)
- Phenolic acids (in cereals, fruits and vegetables).
Where can I find it in cosmetics?
Active ingredients to look for in cosmetics to be antioxidants are:
- There vitamins A : we suggest the one from MCCM which hydrates and unifies the complexion.
- There vitamin C : the one from MCCM, too, fights hyperpigmentation and brightens the complexion, in addition to being a powerful antioxidant!
- Vitamin E : FILORGA NCTF 135 HA is a poly-revitalizing cocktail composed of hyaluronic acid + 55 nutritious ingredients that deeply revitalize and hydrate skin lacking radiance, tone, elasticity or firmness.
- Glutathione: The Cure BCN institute which combines glutathione and vitamin C is a very powerful antioxidant with significant anti-aging effects.
