Have you ever heard of free radicals? These highly reactive molecules are known to cause damage to our skin and contribute to the signs of premature ageing. In this new post, we dive deeper into what free radicals are, how they affect our skin, and how we can protect our complexion from their harmful effects.
What are free radicals?
Free radicals are unstable molecules that are missing an essential part of their structure (known as an electron). In order to stabilise themselves, they will seek out and “steal” electrons from other molecules, causing damage in the process. Free radicals are produced naturally in our bodies as a result of normal metabolic processes, but they can also be produced by external factors such as UV radiation, pollution, and cigarette smoke amongst other causes such as stress.
How do free radicals affect our skin?
When produced in excess, free radicals can trigger a condition known as oxidative stress which can impact our skin in many ways, including:
PREMATURE AGEING: Free radicals can break down collagen and elastin, which are proteins that give our skin its structure and elasticity. This can lead to fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.
HYPERPIGMENTATION: Free radicals can also cause hyperpigmentation, which is the darkening of our skin due to the overproduction of melanin. This can lead to the formation of age spots, sun spots, and other forms of discoloration.
INFLAMMATION: Free radicals can cause inflammation in our skin, which can lead to redness, irritation, and even acne.
How can we protect our skin from oxidative stress?
Now that we know how free radicals can affect our skin, let’s talk about how we can protect it from their harmful effects.
ANTIOXIDANTS: One of the best ways to protect our skin from free radicals is to use antioxidants in our skincare products. Antioxidants are molecules that can neutralize free radicals by donating an electron without becoming unstable themselves.
After conducting thorough research and exhaustive testing, we carefully selected our preferred antioxidants from the botanical world for the Twelve Beauty range. These formulas incorporate potent ingredients that combat oxidative stress in skin, including White Genepi, Butterfly Bush Leaf, Imperatoria Leaf, Tocopherol, and Mallow. Notably, Ideal Brightening Corrective Serum, Rapid Eye Treatment, and Ideal Moisture Level Serum are the three products in the collection that contain the highest levels of antioxidants.
SUNSCREEN: UV radiation is a major source of free radicals, so it’s important to protect our skin from the sun all year round. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 can help to prevent free radical damage from UV radiation. Here at Twelve Beauty HQ we are big fans of Artemisia Power Protection Moisturiser SPF50+. Formulated with artemisia extract, this mineral-based product is 100% natural and provides daily SPF 50+ protection using non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide technology, while leaving the skin with a smooth matte finish.
In conclusion, free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause damage to our skin and contribute to the signs of ageing. However, by using antioxidants, sunscreen, and a balanced lifestyle (keep the stress at bay), we can protect our skin from their harmful effects.
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