All about Antioxidants for your skin

Aging arises from an accumulation of free radicals called reactive oxygen species (ROS). In the skin, ROS are produced by keratinocytes and fibroblasts, 2 types of skin cells. Additionally, ROS are generated from environmental exposures such as sun exposure, pollution, smoking, poor nutrition, stress, and even lack of sleep. Also, as we age our antioxidant levels diminish leading to an accumulation of ROS and accelerated skin aging.

The longer wavelengths of UV light, UVA penetrates more deeply into the dermis driving ROS production and upregulating an activator protein (AP-1) which increases the production of the metalloproteinase enzymes that break down collagen. AP-1 further inhibits collagen production. UVA-induced oxidative stress also affects the expression of a nuclear factor that increases inflammation and creates more oxidative stress.

The skin contains an efficient array of antioxidants that offer protection against both external and internal assaults. Antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, coenzyme Q10, glutathione, resveratrol, and green tea are used to neutralize free radicals and can help to regenerate antioxidants that have already been used. Topical antioxidants can be used to provide additional environmental protection as well as prevent further skin damage.

At The Dermatology and Skin Cancer Institute, we recommend a combination of protection and reparative products to help you keep your skin healthy and attractive. I use our Skinaesthetics MD Brightening Vitamin C Serum followed by our Skin Aesthetics MD Sheer Physical Sunscreen SPF 50+. I love our Skin Aesthetics MD sunscreens because they contain antioxidants so when you are re-applying the sunscreen later in the day, you are getting antioxidants as well! At night, I use our Skin Aesthetics MD Retinol 10X Serum followed by our Skin Aesthetics MD Triple Antioxidant Cream. While the antioxidants protect, the retinol repairs the skin.

Come see us for your very own customized skin care regimen!