Antioxidants and Vitamins in Skincare Products
Antioxidants are substances that prevent oxidation damage to cells.
The highest concentration of antioxidants in the body is contained in the epidermal layer (first layer; dermis is second layer) of the skin. They form a protective barrier for the living dermal layer and the internal body. With age and environmental damage, the concentration of antioxidants in the skin declines considerably. Without antioxidants, damage to the skin increases. Antioxidants applied topically can help restore a barrier. While reducing further damage. By maintaining an optimal level of antioxidants, we can reduce free radicals and oxidation damage. Some of the most well known antioxidants are vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, Pycnogenol and Beta-Carotene.
Free radicals cause damage to cells, forcing the aging process into an accelerated pace.
Free-radical damage occurs when atoms or groups of atoms have an odd (unpaired) number of electrons. Smoking, air pollution, and the sunlight stimulate free-radicals. The level of vitamin C drops by 30% by exposing skin to the sun rays. Antioxidants couple with free radicals to neutralize unpaired electrons. Vitamin C has photo-protective properties. However, vitamin C is never recommended as a substitute for sunscreen. Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin. Due to this fact, it needs to be replenished daily. Consider supplements that contain high dose of vitamin C.
The combination of topical antioxidants and sunscreen is a powerful and effective way to hinder free-radical activity.
Topical vitamin C comes in two varieties, L-ascorbic (water soluble) and esters (water and fat soluble).
Vitamin C is needed to produce collagen, the skin’s protein. By pairing vitamin C with other antioxidants, vitamin C has more collagen generating benefits.
Vitamin A is essential for the growth and differentiation of the cells.
Vitamin A is truly the gold standard of skin-care products – it’s a must have ingredient. It helps to reverse the aging process. Vitamin A is absorbed through the skin. It helps to maintain soft and plump skin. It improves the skin’s water barrier properties.
Vitamin E, also called d-alpha tocopherol.
Vitamin E protects cell membrane and neutralizes free radicals.
AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) are also very important skincare ingredients. There are many AHAs that serve different purposes. AHAs may change the condition of the lipid barrier of the skin. They allow a faster penetration of the products.
Unique Verve facials deliver visible results. All facials are results-oriented and include intensive serums. Unique Verve is located in Boston, on Beacon Street in Back Bay.