Antioxidants are defined as "a substance that inhibits oxidation, especially one used to counteract the deterioration of stored food products.", and "a substance such as vitamin C or E that removes potentially damaging oxidizing agents in a living organism." (Oxford English Dictionary)
Simply put, antioxidants are free radical scavengers that protect the skin against oxidative damage. Free radicals are compounds that build up in the body, produced by environmental stressors such as pollution and UV light exposure. Free radicals damage our cells which ultimately leads to visible signs of aging, such as: discoloration, fine lines, wrinkles, sagging, and loss of firmness.
Collagen is the tough fiber located in the dermis (deeper level of our skin). Collagen and elastin give our skin its structure and strength. These proteins are essential for firmness, bounce, and elasticity. There are many factors that contribute to collagen decline. Two of the major factors are:
- When we get older we start to loose collagen as a natural part of the aging process.
- Prolonged exposure to UV light triggers a break down of collagen, leading to signs of aging.
To illustrate how environmental stressors affect our skin:
What happens to metal after long term exposure to the environment and environmental stressors? Over time the environment starts to ware on the metal and it begins to look less vibrant. As time goes on, the metal may even break down and rust. The same is true of our skin. Each and every day we are exposed to harsh elements in our environment such as pollution, and harmful UV radiation (which is one huge reason why a broad-spectrum sunscreen is so vital). Over time these environmental stressors will start to wear on our skin producing a dull appearance and trigger the breakdown of collagen. This is where visible signs of aging/damage make itself manifest.
This is why antioxidants are so beautiful! Antioxidants come in to defend, protect, and fight for your skin as they attack free radicals and slow the breakdown of collagen (among other things). When it comes to anti-aging skincare products, antioxidants are vital. There are a plethora of antioxidants on the market, and the more you have in your skincare (like a colorful meal full of different nutrient rich fruits and vegetables), the better! Some antioxidants that are common in skincare include:
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin C
- Green Tea
- Retinol
- Bakuchiol (natural Retinol alternative)
- Niacinamide
- Fight free radical damage
- Slow the breakdown of collagen
- Reduce uneven pigmentation
- Brighten skin
- Diminish the appearance of wrinkles & fine lines
- Strengthen and repair skin
- Promote firmness
- Protect the skins surface
- Smooth texture
- Soothe redness
- Rejuvenate dull skin
Starting your day with an antioxidant rich product, and always applying sunscreen before heading out for the day are great ways to promote healthier skin, that will thank you now and years to come. Here are some Green Bean products that contain antioxidants for you to enjoy:
- Green Tea Superfood Cleanser
- Rose Cleanser
- Lemon Turmeric Brightening Cleanser
- Watermelon Berry Dewy Fruit Plump Serum
- Niacinamide Brightening Serum
- Rose Moisturizer