Antioxidants are nutrients that will neutralize damage caused by free radicals—both external and internal pollutants that will break down the skin cells and destroy the body’s collagen supply.

Antioxidants can be found in serums, exfoliators, eye creams, moisturizers and sunscreens. When choosing products to use, it is important to understand the benefits from the specific ingredient.

Below is a list of some popular antioxidants and how they benefit the skin.

ANTIOXIDANT & THEIR BENEFITS

Vitamin A: Treats fine lines and acne

Vitamin C: Improves skin tone and texture; some reversal to signs of sun damage.

Vitamin E: Improves oil and water content of skin; must be combined with vitamin C for absorption

Green Tea: Antibacterial, antiviral and anti-cancer properties

Alpha Lipoic Acid: Anti-inflammatory, reduces redness, increases the effects of other antioxidants

CoQ10: Protects and revitalizes skin; visible reduction of fine lines and wrinkles

The latest to hit the antioxidant scene is the “miracle” antioxidant, coffee berry. Coffee berry is a very powerful anti-aging boost for the face. It significantly improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, but without any allergic reaction or skin irritations.

Along with having a healthy skin care regimen, it is equally important to have a healthy diet. Antioxidants are found in many food items. Strawberries, oranges, cauliflower, kale, nuts, spinach and seeds are just a few examples of antioxidant-rich foods we should be eating.

Gina “Gigi” Gianforti is an esthetician, nail tech, instructor and owner of Gigi70 Natural Skin Care, located at 300 E. University Blvd., Ste. 144, in Tucson. Connect with her at 520-390-0081, [email protected] or Gigi70.SkinCareTherapy.net.