LIVE CHAT
If the sun, pollution and stress are the skin’s enemies, then think of antioxidants as its bodyguards. One of the main culprits behind aging is oxidation, which is caused by destructive and unstable Oxygen molecules called free radicals that destroy Collagen and impairs cells from functioning normally - when they attack healthy skin cells, they cause them to break down, contributing to the acceleration of lines, wrinkles and sagging. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, preventing them from wreaking havoc on healthy skin cells. The body’s own antioxidant production can be supplemented by diet and skincare products, with antioxidant-rich ingredients like vitamins A, C and E, Amino Acids (L-carnitine and L-cysteine) and Coenzymes (Q10 and Alpha Lipoic Acid).
Many foods naturally contain antioxidants - red beans, wild blueberries, cranberries, artichokes, dried prunes, apples, pecans, russet potatoes and plums - but you can also increase your antioxidant consumption with vitamins and supplements like PerriconeMD Super Antioxidant, which provides a complete dose of health-boosting minerals and phytonutrients.With skincare products, antioxidants are often delivered through serums or moisturizers, which penetrate deep into the skin and can’t be rubbed of.
Some Antioxidant Superstars
Whether you get them through supplements or skincare, here are some high-performance antioxidants to look for.
Vitamin A (Retinol) – increases Collagen production, improves texture and enhances barrier function. Can find it in kale, spinach, sweet potatoes, carrots, fortified cereal, milk and eggs.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) – increases Collagen production, reduces discolorations and helps skin better withstand sunlight exposure. Can find in oranges, broccoli, spinach, tomatoes and sweet red peppers.
Vitamin E (Alpha Tocopherol) – protects top layers of skin from sun damage. Can find in leafy green vegetables, carrots, nuts, oils (olive, canola, sunflower) and whole grains.
Green Tea – prevents Collagen breakdown and can protect skin from aging. Also known as EGCG. Can be found in green tea leaves.
Soy – has a Collagen-stimulating effect and can affect skin thickness and elasticity. Can find in tofu, edamame, soy protein bars, cereal, soy milk and soy-based dairy products.
Pomegranate – rich in phytochemicals that help reduce inflammation
Lineolic Acid – an Omega-3 fatty acid that can help with cell regeneration and skin-barrier repair. Can find in wild salmon, olive oil, haddock, grouper and walnuts. To add an extra boost of Omega-3 fatty acids, try PerriconeMD Omega 3 supplements, which has been shown to also help elevate mood, regulate weight and support heart health.
Many of these vitamins and nutrients are part of recommended daily regimen and are contained in adequate doses in multi-vitamins, but the recommended daily allowance (RDA) standards differ from person to person depending on age, sex and other health considerations. Other nutrients (like soy, green tea and pomegranate) are found in specialty supplements, but standards haven’t been established for a recommended dosing to maximize their antioxidant benefits. Please talk with your doctor or nutritionist to develop an antioxidant supplement plan that’s right for you.
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