Antioxidants in skincare are powerful ingredients that protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals—unstable molecules triggered by pollution, UV rays, stress, and even poor diet. They help prevent premature aging, brighten skin, and calm inflammation.
🧪 What Do Antioxidants Do?
-
Neutralize free radicals (which cause wrinkles, dullness, and collagen breakdown)
-
Protect against environmental stressors (like sun and pollution)
-
Reduce inflammation and redness
-
Help repair skin and support barrier function
-
Boost the effectiveness of SPF and anti-aging products
🌿 Top Antioxidants in Skincare:
1. Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
-
Brightens skin tone
-
Fades dark spots
-
Boosts collagen production
2. Vitamin E (Tocopherol)
-
Moisturizes and soothes skin
-
Works well with Vitamin C to protect against UV damage
3. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
-
Strengthens skin barrier
-
Reduces redness and hyperpigmentation
-
Regulates oil production
4. Resveratrol
-
Found in grapes/red wine
-
Anti-inflammatory and anti-aging benefits
5. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
-
Energizes skin cells
-
Helps reduce fine lines
6. Green Tea Extract (EGCG)
-
Calms irritation and redness
-
Antimicrobial—good for acne-prone skin
7. Ferulic Acid
-
Boosts stability and effectiveness of other antioxidants like Vitamin C and E
8. Polyphenols (from plants)
-
Found in ingredients like chamomile, coffeeberry, or pomegranate
-
Help reduce oxidative stress and calm the skin
💡 How to Use Them:
-
Often found in serums, moisturizers, and eye creams
-
Use in the morning to protect against daily environmental exposure
-
Layer under sunscreen for enhanced UV protection
🔥 Pro Tip:
Pair antioxidants with sunscreen daily—they don’t replace SPF, but they make it even more effective at preventing skin damage.