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What are antioxidants, and why do I need them in my skincare routine?

What are antioxidants, and why do I need them in my skincare routine?

Antioxidants are trending everywhere from skincare to health supplements, but what exactly are antioxidants, and why do you need them in your skincare routine?

In this blog, I'll share some simple facts about how these superpower molecules help to defend your skin to keep it feeling happy and healthy for longer. Let's dive in!

What are antioxidants?

Simple answer: Antioxidants are molecules that fight the effects of free radical damage which causes a loss of elasticity in your skin.  Antioxidants are found in fresh fruit and veggies but can also be applied to your skin.

One of the key ways in which skin ages is through free radical damage.  Think of free radicals as highly reactive molecules. We need free radicals e.g. to help fight infection and turn food into energy; however they are prone to oxidation (the same reaction that causes to fruit to brown when exposed to air). 

When free radicals get out of control they cause inflammation and damage to your cells. Cleverly, your body has antioxidant defences to keep free radicals in check; but anything you can do to boost antioxidant levels is a good thing!  

 what are antioxidants and how do they work foods rich in antioxidants

 

So, why do you need antioxidants in your skincare routine?

Simple answer: Antioxidants are vital in how your skin looks, functions, and ages.  Think of them as shields that intercept and neutralise free radicals before they cause damage.  

Your skin is the largest organ in your body and your body's outermost layer of protection.  This is an area where free radicals form the most from U.V. rays, cigarette smoke and air pollution.  

When too many free radicals are formed they cause a chain reaction which damages skin causing a loss of collagen and elasticity and visible signs of ageing like lines, wrinkles, age spots, dullness and blackheads.  Yes, blackheads! 

Are you surprised to hear this? Contrary to popular belief, those tiny black dots (which tend to show up on the areas of the face most prone to oil, e.g. the T-zone) aren't pores clogged with grime; they are large, open pores containing hardened sebum or oil. Free radicals have oxidised the sebum causing it to turn dark colour. 

Using skincare products containing antioxidant actives that are able to penetrate the upper layers of the skin helps to neutralise free radicals.  This can help prevent a loss of elasticity, lines and wrinkles, age spots and blackheads.  

what are antioxidants and how do they work

How to add antioxidants into your skincare routine

It's never too early or late in add antioxidants onto your routine but there are many different types of skincare ingredients to choose from and it can get confusing as some of them can be quite irritating on the skin e.g. high strength topical retinols and vitamin C

Here at P
amoja, my simple, effective natural skincare routine is packed with high levels of antioxidant-rich active ingredients.  I've chosen antioxidants that are gentle, yet potent and protect and nourish your skin barrier, helping to boost your natural defences against everyday pollution.   

You'll find: 

Beta-carotene (provitamin A) is a powerful antioxidant and plant pigment that gives red, orange, and yellow vegetables their vibrant colour. A provitamin A carotenoid means that the body can convert it into vitamin A (natural retinol). Carrot Root CO2 is a precious botanical extract packed with beta carotene suited to all skin types, especially dry and mature ones.  

Which Pamoja product contains this ingredient:  Reset Cleansing Balm

pamoja vegan skincare reset cleansing balm what is an antioxidant and how do they work 

Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) has been found to increase the antioxidant capacity of the skin and research shows it is involved in maintaining the skin barrier and helping to reduce the pigmentation and fine lines - making it a true multitasking ingredient.  Niacinamide is especially beneficial to sensitive, acne and rosacea prone skin, and as the only lab-made ingredient in Pamoja products it's been chosen for its unique properties and efficacy.

Which Pamoja product contains this ingredient: Replenish Hydrating Serum

Pamoja vegan skincare replenish hydrating serum what is an antioxidant and how do they work

 

Vitamin E (Tocopherol) is one of the most important and highly effective antioxidants for skin as it limits the damage caused by UV rays (it doesn't block them - that's what your SPF is for). 

Which Pamoja product contains this ingredient:  Revive Multi-action Face Cream (as well as Reset Cleansing Balm and Restore Radiance Booster!)

Pamoja vegan skincare revive multiaction face cream what is an antioxidant and how do they work


Caffeic acid:
 a potent antioxidant effective at penetrating the top layer of your skin. It's one of the primary constituents of  Rosemary CO2, which acts as an antioxidant, not to be confused with Rosemary Essential Oil. 

Which Pamoja product contains this ingredient:  Restore Radiance Booster

 Pamoja vegan skincare restore radiance booster what is an antioxidant and how do they work

 

Other antioxidant skincare ingredients include 

Vitamin C - a water soluble vitamin naturally found in skin, essential in collagen synthesis but can be irritating to sensitive skin. 

Ferulic acid – often used alongside vitamins C and E

Resveratrol - found in red grapes  and red wine

Catechin - found in green tea.

 

TLDR.....(too long, didn't read). Your three key takeaways are.

  1. Free radicals cause oxidative stress that accelerates the ageing process and causes loss of elasticity, lines, wrinkles, age spots, and blackheads. 
  2. Antioxidants neutralise free radicals, and so are a must-have in any skincare routine.   
  3. Look out for antioxidant ingredients such as Niacinamide, vitamin E and beta carotene to nourish and protect your skin, whatever age you are.. 

Thanks for reading.

Love Sarah x 

If you'd like to try Pamoja's multi award-winning natural skincare routine, shop the Mini Experience here!

 

 

 

Copyright: Sarah Taylor, trained skincare formulator and founder of Pamoja.
18 September 2022.

Pamoja is a high-performing natural skincare brand designed to help you nourish your skin and nurture yourself. Now with over 240+ five-star reviews. As seen in Vogue, Stylist, Woman's Health, Health and Wellbeing Magazine, Natural Health Magazine, Top Sante and more.

 

** Disclaimer - The content of this blog is for your general information only and is not designed to diagnose or cure health issues. The recommendations in this blog are based on my research and experience as a trained skincare formulator and 40+ women. I advise you to consult a doctor or health care professional if you have a particular skin condition such as Acne or Eczema.   

 

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