What benefits do antioxidants bring to one's skin?

Are you curious about whether or not it would be beneficial to purchase some antioxidants for your skin? What does science have to say about these anti-aging substances, as well as what do the professionals have to say?

 

The beauty industry thrives on the purchase and sale of skincare products and dietary supplements marketed as containing "miracle" anti-aging chemicals. You only need to take a stroll down the aisle where facial creams are sold to get an idea of how common antioxidants have become in recent times. But does using antioxidants for your skin genuinely provide all of the benefits that many say it does?

 

It can be a rude awakening to notice your first wrinkles while you're still in your 20s and enjoying life to the fullest. Even while it's pretty standard for the skin to start showing signs of aging at such a young age, the fact that it does so might cause many people to feel apprehensive about the passage of time, which is unavoidable. These supposedly magical anti-aging treatments can also come with a heavy price tag from beauty firms, so being aware of the components of these products that can assist in the growth of your skin will save you a lot of stress and money.

 

In this piece, we will discuss the research that supports the use of antioxidants for skin care, as well as the opinions of several seasoned dermatologists who specialize in the topic. Our roundup of the top 10 antioxidant foods to incorporate into your diet is available for your perusal if you are in search of the dietary sources of antioxidants that are the most effective.

 

How exactly do antioxidants do their job?

 

It is necessary first to explain what free radicals are to comprehend what antioxidants are and how they function. These highly bioactive substances are produced as a response by our bodies when they come into contact with biological or environmental stressors such as air pollution, tobacco smoke, UV rays, or dangerous germs and viruses. These stressors can be classified as either external or internal. Because free radicals' atomic structures are missing one or more electrons, they will "steal" electrons from other molecules to complete their electron complement and become more stable. This process, which is known as oxidative stress, is capable of causing significant harm to the strands of DNA and cell membranes that are found in our bodies.

 

Although it might not make sense at first, we require a certain amount of oxidative stress in our bodies. If we didn't have it, our bodies would have a hard time warding off infections and eliminating damaged cells. However, when this process is carried out to an excessive degree, it might result in several health complications. Antioxidants come into play at this point.

 

Antioxidants are substances that can neutralize free radicals by giving up part of their electrons, protecting our cells from the harmful effects of free radicals, and preventing cell damage. The human body is capable of producing some of these vital compounds on its own, but the majority of them must either be consumed along with food or applied topically.

 

What benefits do antioxidants bring to one's skin?

 

When it comes to maintaining healthy skin, nutrition is one of the most critical factors. For it to remain in tip-top shape, we require a wide variety of nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and phytonutrients. Antioxidants are essential for the preservation of our skin's health and youthful appearance. This is because our skin is constantly subjected to a wide variety of environmental and biological aggressors. To have your nutritional needs met, take a look at our simple meal plan for the Mediterranean diet that spans five days.

 

Free radicals can cause inflammation, damage the skin's collagen, and interfere with the body's natural processes that repair the damage. According to a paper that was published in The Journal of Dermatological Science, these hazardous substances significantly contribute to the aging of the skin by accelerating the development of wrinkles, uneven skin tone, abnormal pigmentation, and acne breakouts. [citation needed] They are also a significant factor in the development of melasma, a condition of the skin that is characterized by brown, blue, or gray spots or patches that are typically located in the area of the face and the neck.

 

Antioxidants have been suggested as a potential solution by Dr. Julia Tzu, MD, FAAD, who is the founder and medical director of Wall Street Dermatology. Dr. Tzu believes that antioxidants have the potential to be an effective therapy for this issue. She explains that antioxidants assist in scavenging free radicals in the skin, which are the molecules responsible for cellular damage and inflammation. "Using antioxidants regularly can help prevent the cellular damage and inflammation that contribute to the development of skin cancer and other indications of aging."

 

Exposure to ultraviolet light (UV) is responsible for a sizeable portion of the oxidative damage that occurs in the skin.

 

"Antioxidants function as powerfully protective adjuncts to sunscreen that boost an individual's protection from damage induced by exposure to UV radiation and exposure to other common pollutants," explains Dr. Julie Karen, a dermatologist at the CompleteSkinMD clinic. "This boosts an individual's protection from damage induced by exposure to UV radiation and exposure to other common pollutants," she adds. It is recommended that antioxidant-containing products be used daily underneath a broad-spectrum sunscreen; alternatively, a sunscreen that includes antioxidant technology directly in the product may be used.

 

An article published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences states that for many plants to shield themselves from the damaging effects of excessive radiation, they produce secondary metabolites. Some examples of these include phenolic compounds, ascorbic acids, carotenoids, and tocopherols, to name just a few. To a certain extent, these compounds will exert similar antioxidant qualities in human bodies.

 

Should you put more of your focus on acquiring your antioxidants from food sources, or should you put more of your focus on applying them topically to your skin? The experts are in agreement that any choice could end up working out well for you.

 

According to a dermatologist named Dr. Anton Alexandroff, who has received positive feedback on Doctify (opens in a new window), "it is preferable to digest them with meals because this way they would help the complete body, including the gut and the heart." However, the most effective way to protect skin is to apply them topically because this way, higher concentrations are archived locally in the skin. This makes using them topically the most efficient way to protect the skin. " This is especially true when it comes to shielding the skin's surface from the sun's rays. However, the same cannot be said for the protection of collagen, which is located more profound in the skin, and it is more difficult for antioxidants to reach a sufficient level of penetration when they are applied topically.

 

Dr. Tzu explains that the treatment that an antioxidant is intended for can have a significant impact on how effective that antioxidant is. "Topical application provides a more focused approach, providing concentrated distribution to the location of concern, making it appropriate for the treatment of targeted superficial skin-related issues." Consumption might be beneficial to overall health, which would include the skin, but the effects are less likely to be skin-specific.

 

Which antioxidants are the most beneficial for your skin?

 

Vitamin C

 

Vitamin C, which is well-known for its capacity to improve the function of our immune system, is also an effective antioxidant that protects both the health and the integrity of our skin.

 

According to Dr. Tzu, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that aids in the reduction of hyperpigmentation and stimulates the creation of collagen.

 

According to a review that was published in the journal Nutrients (opens in a new tab), vitamin C is one of the essential variables when it comes to the formation of collagen in the skin and providing protection against the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation on the skin. It does this by inhibiting the overproduction of pigments in our skin, which in turn helps to lessen the visibility of black spots. Vitamin C can control the production of sebum, and there is even some evidence that it may diminish the visibility of acne lesions when it is given topically in the form of a cream or serum.

 

Vitamin E

 

As stated by Dr. Alexandroff, "alpha tocopherol" is the most effective fat-soluble antioxidant that prevents oxidation of cell membranes.

 

This micronutrient has been shown in several studies to maintain the integrity of the skin's lipid components and to lower the chance of developing autoimmune skin disorders such as psoriasis and atopic eczema (a skin condition characterized by itching, cracking, and soreness).

 

According to research published in the journal Drug Metabolism Reviews, vitamin E can protect against sunburn, excessive pigmentation, and even skin cancer when it is applied to the skin in the form of lotions and balms.

 

Vitamin D

 

Vitamin D is necessary for the proper functioning of our immune systems as well as the preservation of the integrity of our bones. The fact that this nutrient can also help protect our skin against photo-induced damage and inflammation is not widely known. However, this is one of its many benefits. According to a study that was published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, the active metabolites of vitamin D are responsible for regulating the growth of keratinocytes. Keratinocytes are the most prevalent cell type in the skin and are in charge of the healing process when injured, or damaged tissues are present. The aging process can be slowed down, and the chance of getting skin cancer can be reduced thanks to vitamin D's ability to prevent DNA damage from occurring in the first place.

 

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

 

Vitamin B3, also known as nicotinic acid, niacin, and niacinamide, plays a vital role in the regulation of blood lipid levels, as well as the reduction of blood pressure, improvement of cognitive function, and elevation of energy levels. In addition to that, it is an essential antioxidant for maintaining healthy skin.

 

According to Dr. Tzu, "Niacinamide is a powerful antioxidant that helps to diminish hyperpigmentation and redness while also strengthening the skin barrier and reducing inflammation." According to research published in the journal Antioxidants, niacinamide can reduce the levels of oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions in skin cells when it is swallowed with food or taken in supplement form. This ultimately contributes to a more substantial skin barrier.

 

However, according to research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, vitamin B3 that is administered topically has the potential to effectively cure a variety of skin conditions, including acne, hyperpigmentation, and atopic dermatitis, and rosacea.

 

Retinoids as well as vitamin A

 

Vitamin A, which can also be referred to as retinol, can provide several benefits to our skin as well. Vitamin A, a powerful antioxidant, shields the body from the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation and may reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.

 

According to a review that was recently published in the journal Cells (opens in a new tab), Vitamin A may help reduce the risk of getting skin cancer, acne, and psoriasis, as well. However, it is essential to keep in mind that retinoids that are used topically have the potential to create irritating reactions on the skin, such as scaling or burning.

 

Astaxanthin

 

Salmons get their distinctive pink hue from a pigment called astaxanthin, which is also produced naturally by a variety of microalgae, bacteria, and yeasts. Astaxanthin is also responsible for the health benefits of salmon. This substance may be particularly helpful in preventing skin illnesses and accelerating the body's natural processes for repairing itself, as shown by a review that was recently published in the journal Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (opens in a new tab). There is some evidence (opens in new tab) that combining topical and oral astaxanthin doses can help with moisture retention and smoothing fine creases. The research is still ongoing, but there is some evidence that this combination can work.

 

Resveratrol

 

A form of polyphenolic antioxidant known as resveratrol can be found in a variety of foods, including red grapes, red wine, grape juice, peanuts, chocolate, and berries. The majority of research on this compound has focused on the positive effects it has on cardiovascular health. However, there is some evidence (opens in a new tab) to suggest that polyphenols like resveratrol may also offer protection against photodamage, skin infections, and skin cancer, particularly when they are consumed in the form of food or dietary supplements.

 

Dr. Tzu notes that polyphenols, which include resveratrol, flavonoids, and the active components of green tea extract, are potent antioxidants that help reduce the effects of aging and inflammation, as well as protect the skin from cancer and photodamage.

 

Polyphenols are found in green tea.

 

Consuming green tea is associated with a variety of positive health effects, most of which you are probably well aware of. In addition to being one of the beverages that are consumed the most all over the world, it is also an excellent source of polyphenolic antioxidants, which have a potent anti-wrinkle impact.

 

Dr. Karen agrees that they are one of the most potent antioxidants that have also been adequately investigated. According to a study that was published in the journal Nutrients, the polyphenols found in green tea can combat the effects of free radicals, speed up the formation of collagen and elastin fibers, and lower the amounts of collagen-degrading enzymes that are found in our skin. Additionally, there is some evidence that they can reduce the risk of developing skin cancer.

 

You can obtain a good amount of these polyphenols by drinking green tea infusions, but if you don't like the flavor of their earthiness, there are also a lot of nutritional supplements that you can choose from. They are also found on the ingredient lists of a lot of different cosmetics.

Article source : https://www.livescience.com/what-do-antioxidants-do-for-your-skin

Image source  : https://pixabay.com/id/photos/sayuran-buah-buahan-makanan-bahan-1085063/

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