Antioxidants and Skin

From a biochemical perspective, antioxidants work at the cellular level to combat free radicals caused by sun damage, air toxicity, and poor eating choices.

Today, there is substantial evidence linking certain toxicities or “stressors" that may initiate and drive the signaling events that lead to cellular mutations causing skin aging.

Oxidative stress is a major form of assault on the skin, creating unstable free radical molecules. Free radicals are responsible for cellular damage, particularly targeting cells that are rich in unsaturated fatty acids (the cell membrane,) and sensitive to oxidation reactions.

The skin is your largest organ and acts as a barrier from the environment, making it most susceptible to oxidative stress. Think of it as a two way mirror, protecting you from external oxidative stress, while at the same time reflecting the internal oxidative stress.

Bottom line about antioxidants and skin - reduce your exposure to oxidative stress, and increase your defenses.

Feed your body with nutrition that is rich in antioxidants, reduces inflammation, and stimluates your immunity.

• Stay hydrated.

Drink lots of pure water. Squeeze lemon for extra antioxidants, it’s a cleansing powerhouse packed with vitamin C! Don’t forget a cup of skin clearing green tea for energy in the morning. Choose organic skincare moisturizers with green tea extracts.

• Eat lots of fresh raw fruits and vegetables.

They are also full of “organic water” which keeps your skin plump and hydrated. The vitamins, minerals and fibre boost the cleansing effect. Goodbye cellulite!

• Nourish with natural oils and antioxidants.

One of the oldest and well known treats for the skin is pure cacao. The skin organ is delicate and should be noursihed with natural food, just like your internal body. Cacao butter, shea butter and coconut oil are most superior moisturizers. Essential oils work to purify, detox, and protect the skin.

• Make your own natural masks, face washes and moisturizers.

Most of the skin products advertised and sold at the pharmacy can actually do more harm than good. They are laden with harmful chemicals, “fillers”, and little or no real antioxidants that can be absorbed by the skin.

Think of it this way, your skin is absorbing whatever you put onto it as nourishment. It is, in a way, “eating”. Would you eat that sticky white cream with its artificial smell and all?!!

• Use only the best natural products

Look for products that are 100% natural and organic. Best of all, use pure oils and minerals. A bit of tea tree oil dabbed with a q-tip on problem areas will soak up all excess oil. Try mineral therapy - clay works wonders to open your pores and draw out the toxins.

• Try Skin Brushing.

Get a thick bristle brush with a long handle. Brush your dry skin before you shower or bathe. You want to brush vigorously, in small circles from top to bottom. Spend more time in areas with cellulite, but avoid brushing on broken or inflamed skin.

Not only does this exfoliate all the dead skin cells, but it improves surface circulation. Once the blood is flowing, all those antioxidant nutrients are more likely to go where they are needed. Learn more about dry skin brushing.

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