Everything you need to know about antioxidants

All too often we’ve heard the word “antixodant” in skincare products promising to restore youth and rejuvenate skin but do you really know how and why it does that?

First up, what are antioxidants? Antioxidants are naturally occurring vitamins and minerals, such as the commonly known Vitamins A, C and E and even green tea that protect your skin from free radicals. And what are free radicals? They are molecules that come from pollutants, chemicals and cigarette smoke that lurk in the environment and damages your skin by weakening collagen and elastin (the very ingredients you need for plump, supple skin).

How do antioxidants work? They neutralize those nasty free radicals, protecting your skin from damage, and more than that, antioxidants can also help to brighten your skin, calm irritation, and even smooth fine lines, just as long as you find the right one.

Best for brightening: Vitamin C

There’s good reason for Vitamin C to be one of the most commonly found antioxidants in skincare products. It is the best antioxidant for perking up dull, tired looking skin, and like retinol, it helps to boost collagen production for tighter, firmer, smoother skin.

When used diligently, Vitamin C will lighten pigmentation and dark spots for a fresher, brighter complexion.

We recommend:

Citrine Pure Vitamin C Elixir & Powder – With the Elixir powder packed separately in capsules, this is the freshest and purest form of topical Vitamin C you could get.

Best for antiaging: Vitamin A

If you don’t already know, retinol is actually concentrated Vitamin A and there’s good reason to include retinol in your skincare regime, as it helps to smooth out fine line and wrinkles, evens out complexion, brightens skin, fades skin discolouration such as scars, and reduce acne.

The downside though is that in the first few weeks of using retinol, you might notice breakouts, dryness and flaking. These are all normal side effects but stick with it and your skin will reap the benefits of this skin-saving ingredient.

We recommend:

Age Defy Rejuvenating & Anti-Aging Lotion – This hydrating wonder cream is super concentrated with Vitamin A, improving skin’s overall radiance.

Best for moisturising: Vitamin E

Vitamin E is one of the more popular antioxidants around for its ability to do a little bit of everything without being too intense. It’s known as a natural anti-inflammatory, shields against free radical damage and great at keeping skin soft and supple.

While it may be gentle on its own, it’s a force to be reckoned with when paired with Vitamin C so the benefits are exponential.

We recommend:

Hologram Pore Minimizing Skin Primer – Containing the optimal amounts of Vitamin A, C and E, this primer not only lifts and tones, it also seals in moisture while protecting skin from free radical damage.