Antioxidants help us neutralize free radicals and facilitate the production of collagen, which is essential to maintain the elasticity and tone of the skin.
Over the days, weeks and years, we see that our skin is slowly deteriorating as a result of the effect of free radicals, which are counteracted by antioxidants, these help us to treat the skin and return it to its healthy state and shimmering.
The body’s natural oxidation process creates free radicals, the latter being emitted when the body breaks down food or when the body is exposed to harmful irritants, such as cigarette smoke, pollution, or radiation.
Most important antioxidants to treat the skin
Beta-carotene (Vitamin A)
Once in the body, beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A, necessary to keep mucosa and skin healthy . on the other hand, it must be emphasized that beta-carotene is a safe source of vitamin A, since the body stops converting beta-carotene when it no longer needs this vitamin.
Yellow and orange fruits and vegetables are good dietary sources of beta-carotene, as they are effective for skin protection, especially from sunburn.
Topical vitamin A and its derivatives called retinoids are useful for treating acne, and for prematurely aged and sun-damaged skin.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps the body produce collagen and repair tissue; This is especially useful for treating aging skin, as various studies claim. Lack of vitamin C results in dry, rough skin and easy bruising; You can enter it in:
- Citrus
- Strawberries
- Kiwis
- Peppers
- Blueberries
- Tomatoes
- Broccoli
- Pineapple among others.
Topical vitamin C provides protection against photoaging and is particularly effective when combined with vitamin E.
Selenium
The selenium works well when combined with vitamin E; You can find it in the following foods:
- Liver
- Wheat germ
- Brazil nuts
- Beer yeast
- Seafood and tuna.
Although you have to be very careful with your intake and it must always be prescribed by a doctor, new studies affirm that selenium would have the ability to prevent the spread of various viral diseases, and even improve the reproductive health of both sexes.
Lycopene
Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that slows down the negative action of free radicals and protects the skin. It may also have chemotherapeutic capabilities, according to the latest related research.
Some foods that contain lycopene are, for example, tomato and watermelon. Lycopene is responsible for its attractive red color.
Benefits of antioxidants on the skin
- By applying an antioxidant cream that benefits the dermal layers of the skin, you can neutralize free radicals and allow the production of collagen, which is important for maintaining elasticity and resistance and helping the skin to look smoother and more rejuvenated.
- Vitamin A helps reduce the overall level of oil in the pores; When combined with quality skincare, applying this vitamin topically can reduce acne.
- The antioxidants found in skincare products can slow the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Vitamin C found in skincare products reduces melanin pigmentation due to age, helping to improve appearance.