Nutrition Edit

The word antioxidants are constantly being talked about in the beauty industry. But did you know you may need more than one antioxidant nutrient for your skin? Antioxidants help slows the ageing process and reducing signs of premature ageing showing in skin. So why do we need antioxidants and how do you ensure that you are getting enough? Our skin researchers educate you on everything you need to know on antioxidants and how you can consume them in your diet and supplement regime.

What are antioxidants?

Antioxidants are molecules that fight free radicals in your body. But what exactly are free radicals? Free radials are molecules that can build up in skin cells causing damage to DNA, collagen, and destroying vitamins and nutrients. Free radicals are caused by various of factors including poor diet (too much sugar), blue light, air pollution, alcohol, and cigarette smoke. There are different free radicals such as super oxide, ROS-reactive oxygen species, hydrogen peroxide and many more.

When your body has too many free radicals it can lead to something called oxidative stress, which is when there in an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in your body. When this happens, it has a negative impact on the skin including fine lines, wrinkles, sagging, pigmentation, and discolouration.

Our bodies have its own antioxidant defences, but we need to ensure we get a plentiful supply from our diet and supplements.

Wardrobe of antioxidants

It may be a surprise for you to hear but you don’t just need one type of antioxidant. Just like there are several types of free radicals, there are several types of antioxidants to deal with them. Think of it like a pair of shoes, you don’t just need one pair of shoes. You need ones for different types of activity and weather conditions. Our skin researchers recommend adding the following to your diet and supplement regime.

Phytonutrients

Phytonutrients are nutrients found from plants. These make up our formula of Skin Antioxidant which include beta-carotene, bilberry, lycopene, lutein, green tea, grapeseed extract and turmeric. They are all key antioxidants working to guard the skin from free radicals.

Vitamin C

A skin-loving antioxidant and collagens best friend, vitamin C protects the body from free radical damage** and helps support collagen production*. Found in high levels with the skin epidermis – with brightening and anti-ageing properties. The body cannot store vitamin C, so it should be taken regularly to maintain levels. Vitamin C be found in acerola cherries, yellow peppers, kale, broccoli, and kiwis. Vitamin C can be found in our Skin Collagen Synergy box that supports collagen production* for healthy-looking, resilient collagen and youthful-looking skin.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E – a key fat-soluble antioxidant** that protects our skin cells as well as DNA and lipid layers. If you’re looking for ways to support your skin – vitamin E should be up there. It sits on the stratum corneum and provides first line of defence against environmental challenges. Which is one of the reasons why its included in our Skin Blue Filter formula, which helps shield the skin from blue light damage by up to 60%^^.

Selenium

Selenium is an essential micronutrient, which provides antioxidant activity, helping reduce free radicals. Another key role is it activates an enzyme to recycle vitamin C*, it supports immune health*** and is great for healthy, luscious hair*** and strong nails***. Selenium is found in our Skin Ultimate smart supplement system - also known as our ingestible “anti-ageing facial” for head-to-toe radiance and beautiful skin.

Zinc

Zinc is a cofactor in an antioxidant enzyme and is involved in protecting cells by stabilising cell membranes and protecting cells from oxidative damage**. Zinc is found in many of our supplements including our modern-multivitamin Skin Vitality, which delivers 28 smart nutrients. Additionally, Skin Accumax™, which is recommended for problem or stressed skin to clear and clarify the complexion.

*Vitamin C contributed to the normal function of collagen**Vitamin C, E and Zinc helps protect cells from oxidative stress

***Selenium contributes to maintenance of normal hair and normal nails. Contributes to the normal function of the immune system and to the protection of cells from oxidative stress.

^^ Based on a study using Lip Barvis® technology conducted in 2022.