Antioxidants have long been known for their health benefits. They’re also vital for healthy skin!

Let's have a look at antioxidants. Why are they so important for your skin and health?

The number one enemy when it comes to aging are free radicals. Our cells use oxygen to produce energy, and in the process they generate free radicals. Free radicals are also produced by sunlight and toxins such as pesticides, cigarette smoke, and pollution. Getting rid of them is impossible because they are a byproduct of daily living.

Many scientists believe free radical damage is the number one cause of aging. For example heart disease, Alzheimers, cancer and free radicals can even damage the collagen in your skin. Free radicals sap your skin of its youthful appearance. When collagen gets damaged the skin becomes discolored and stiff, and loses its elasticity.

**So how do we live healthy long lives?**

The body has developed its own defense mechanism to fight free radicals. This defense mechanism is powered by antioxidants that work by making the free radicals harmless. We can replenish them to some degree with vitamin rich foods and supplements, but under certain conditions—for example prolonged sun exposure—the body's antioxidant system can be overwhelmed. This is called oxidative stress.

In order to have good skin, you need to eat high levels of antioxidants, not just apply antioxidants on your skin. Taking antioxidants orally and topically is the best way to achieve great skin.

Let's have a look at some of my favorite antioxidants and their unique benefits:

Glutathione the master of antioxidants

This is a peptide made of three amino acids that every cell in the body produces. Scientists believe glutathione is the most important amino acid for overall health. A deficiency can cause the cells to be more vulnerable to oxidative stress and chronic disease. A high level can help T-cells function and cell detoxification in your immune system. Glutathione creating substances can be found in milk thistle, avo, broccoli, cauliflower, kale etc. I highly recommend glutahione from cymbiotika. I can see a big difference in my energy levels when I take this liposomal supplement.

Vitamin C is one of the all star antioxidants

Vitamin C is an essential antioxidant that protects against free radicals from the atmosphere and UV light. This is why you should use vitamin C in combination with sunscreen and after a sunburn.

Vitamin C not only plays a key role in our immune system function, but also in our energy level and skin. The body cannot produce this vitamin, so it need s to be obtained by diet and supplementation. Topical and oral application of vitamin C can stimulate collagen production and can improve prolonged photoaged skin. My favorite vitamin c serum is the Nimue Multi Rejuvenating Serum which is a high performing vitamin C and peptide rejuvenation booster. As a supplement I take Vitamin C 1000 from Biocare daily.

Resveratrol: The anti aging antioxidant

This flavonoid is found in the skin of grapes, some red wine, peanuts, and some berries. This antioxidant is essential for anti-aging. Topical application has shown better wound healing, more collagen production and elastin. It rejuvenates DNA in the cells and protects from DNA damage from free radicals. It also protects against UVA and UVB rays.

Alpha Lipoic Acid: The most powerful antioxidant

Alpha lipoic acid is a completely natural molecule deep inside every cell in our bodies. It protects us from free radicals, but what makes it so special? It also helps protect other antioxidants so they do a better job of squashing free radicals. Alpha lipoic acid can increase a cell’s metabolism, which means that it increases the cell’s energy production and ability to heal. It works wonders on aging; it can help other antioxidants to hang on for longer, giving skin cells extra protection. It works in each and every part of the skin cells and protects DNA.

It prevents glycation (a process where sugar damages collagen) which can result in sagging inflexible skin.

I love Nimue Alpha Lipoic Activator Serum. It makes my skin look fabulous! It improves the overall appearance of the skin, treating lines, wrinkles, scarring, and dullness. Flaxseeds, walnuts and pumpkin seeds are also good sources of alpha lipoic acid.

Our skin is under constant attack. That's why antioxidants are so crucial. No single antioxidant is a hero, they work together and it is important to combine as many as possible. Taking them both orally and applying them topically is important. To perfect and protect your skin, you need to address your diet, supplements, and topical products!