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Antioxidants are a common buzzword in both skin care and numerous health care supplements over the past decade. Preventing ‘oxidation’ in aging certainly seems like a good idea. But few who use these products probably understand how they work and what exactly are they supposed to treat. In addition, when and how are you supposed to get the benefits of antioxidant therapy?

Antioxidant products are geared to combat free radicals. A free radical is an unstable molecule in cells which occurs as a result of its electrons becoming separated. This can be caused by such damaging sources as ultraviolet rays, smoke and pollution. The natural aging process and cellular metabolism also causes free radical production. This separated electron desperately wants to  find another electron to which it can become paired. To do so, it may steal one from a healthy cell causing it to become damaged as well.

We generate millions of free radicals every minute and our bodies are very clever at repairing the cellular damage they cause. But over time, the repair process weakens and our skin begins to show ‘its age’. This results in wrinkles and otherwise dull skin externally. And it also causes localized inflammation that affects a lot of internal tissues and organs as well. Overall, free radicals are believed to be a primary cause of the general aging process.

Antioxidants work fundamentally by neutralizing free radicals and stimulating cells to repair their damage. They are ‘happy’ to provide that missing electron whichi helps stabilize and repair cells. To affect the skin, antioxidants must be part of a skin care formulation. Eating and drinking antioxidant compounds helps repair internal structures such as organs and the celplular glue that holds tissues together.

Numerous ingredients in skin care products have been shown to have these properties. Well known ones include coenzyme Q10, kinetin, idebenone as well as vitamins C and E. No evidence currently exists that shows any of the antioxidants to be more effective than another. Regular use in your skin care products, both during the day and at night, will get the best benefit. In otehr words, twice daily application of antioxidant-containing skin care products is ideal.

Eating a diet rich in antioxidants  can also help the body reduce its number of free radical effects. Consume a few servings of brightly covered food and drink each day. Highly concentrated antioxidants foods include apples, pomegranates, dark chocolate, red wine, artichokes, pecans, blueberries, strawberries, and spinach. A multivitamin daily supplement is also recommended.

There is real benefit to the use of antioxidants in skin care products. Their benefits can be maximized by additional use of good dietary selections and supplements which contain high levels of antioxidants. Together, the damaging effects from free radical s on your skin’s appearance can be lessened. While the use of antioxidants alone is not sufficient for all your skin care needs, it is one important step in the program.

Barry L. Eppley, M.D., D.M.D.

Indianapolis, Indiana

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