Free radicals

What are Free Radicals?

Free radicals are highly reactive, unstable molecules with unpaired electrons. In the realm of aesthetic skincare, they hold significant importance due their potential for causing skin damage.

These molecules occur naturally within our bodies as byproducts of regular cellular processes. However, they can also be introduced from external sources like pollution, sunlight exposure, and cigarette smoke. The issue arises when there is an imbalance between free radical activity and the body's ability to counteract their harmful effects – a state known as oxidative stress[^1^].

The Impact of Free Radicals on Skin Health

Under normal circumstances, free radicals play crucial roles in cell signaling and other important biological processes. However, excessive levels can lead to damage at the cellular level - specifically to proteins, lipids and DNA. This damage (often referred to as 'oxidative stress') manifests externally as signs of premature aging including wrinkles, fine lines and lax skin[^2^].

Apart from aging signs, exacerbated free radical activity has been linked with a variety of skin conditions such as inflammation, pigmentation disorders and even some types of skin cancer[^3^].

Neutralizing Free Radicals: The Role Of Antioxidants

Antioxidants are substances designed to neutralize free radicals before they cause harm. They do this by donating an electron to the unstable molecule without becoming destabilized themselves.

In skincare products, antioxidants like Vitamin C[E^(Vitamin C source)], Vitamin E[E^(Vitamin E source)], green tea extractGTE, and retinol[R^(retinol source)] are common ingredients. These antioxidants help mitigate the damage caused by free radicals and can significantly improve skin health and appearance.

Protecting Your Skin From Free Radicals

In addition to using antioxidant-rich skincare products, adopting lifestyle habits that minimize free radical exposure is also crucial. These include avoiding excessive sun exposure, not smoking, limiting alcohol intake, following a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables (which are natural sources of antioxidants), and maintaining regular exercise.

Understanding the impact of free radicals on skin health is vital in the realm of aesthetic skincare. It helps us make informed decisions about our skincare routines and lifestyle choices to enhance skin health and slow down the aging process.