How and why to use an antioxidant serum?
As we age, our skin weakens, losing its regenerative functions like vascular reactivity, and its structural integrity in the skin barrier and tissues over time.
It's also important to note that the various factors responsible for skin aging can be a natural process, but also one accelerated by free radicals, which intensify cell breakdown and oxidation.
These are produced by the air we breathe, and generally, the body eliminates them over time. However, several factors such as an unhealthy lifestyle (poor diet, alcohol, tobacco) lead to an overproduction of free radicals. This then causes oxidation and destruction of cells when they proliferate abnormally. This is why antioxidant serums are allies against all premature signs of aging, such as dark spots, loss of radiance, and all imperfections. An antioxidant serum helps fight against skin aging and prevents the multiplication of free radicals. It is a true shield against the signs of aging.
Antioxidants: What are they?
They are divided into several families (non-exhaustive list):
- Vitamins A, C, E
- Minerals: selenium, zinc
- Polyphenols (quercetin found in foods)
- Beta-carotene
- Lycopene
Antioxidants help prevent damage not only to skin cells but also to various organs in the body. They are found in a variety of foods, vegetables, seafood, grains, and fruits. When absorbed by the body, they protect against certain cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and vision problems.
In cosmetics, antioxidants applied topically help to protect the skin and fight against free radicals responsible for cellular aging.
Why use an antioxidant serum?
Skin aging follows a chronological order; it is genetically programmed, but the predominant action of oxygen free radicals produced in the body promotes skin sagging. This results in the appearance of the first wrinkles, a loss of elasticity, skin atrophy, and changes in immune and inflammatory responses.
The so-called stochastic theory suggests that when cells are subjected to changes in pressure or alterations in their usual environment, they anticipate these changes with specific strategies. However, when these cells are exposed to an excessive number of free radicals that attack the epidermis, it leads to internal disruption. This is known as oxidative stress. Over time, the skin loses its defenses, and pigmentation issues begin to appear.
Using antioxidants provides protection against free radicals, helps fight cellular oxidation, reduces inflammation, fills in wrinkles, and combats skin sagging. Their presence in serums helps keep skin supple and elastic. They also help maintain a radiant and even complexion.
How to use an antioxidant serum?
Before choosing an antioxidant serum, it's important to know your skin type. Specific skin types, including sensitive, oily, atopic, itchy, or even normal skin, can benefit from specific formulations.
For example, if you have dry skin, you might want to choose a serum containing moisturizing oils. If you have oily skin, look for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas.
Vitamin C, Vitamin E, retinol, seed oils, and three other antioxidants, including ferulic acid and coenzyme Q10, are the most commonly used in antioxidant serums. Each of these ingredients offers unique benefits for your skin.
So, take the time to understand the ingredients and research which ones are best suited for you.
- Integrating into your daily skincare routine
When it comes to skincare, it's important to apply an antioxidant serum before your moisturizer. A complete routine involves several steps in a specific order to maximize their benefits: toner, serum, eye cream, moisturizer and then sunscreen.
By applying the serum first, powerful antioxidants deeply penetrate the skin, protecting it from damage caused by free radicals and environmental stressors.
Antioxidant serums play an essential role in any skincare routine. While primarily known for their anti-aging benefits, they also help to tighten pores, hydrate, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, fade imperfections, calm redness, and restore radiance.
The next step is to seal everything in with a moisturizer. This helps lock in moisture and nutrients, ensuring optimal hydration and a stronger protective barrier for your skin.
We suggest using an antioxidant serum both morning and evening for long-lasting protection during the day and skin repair at night while you sleep. Additionally, retinol serums are known to help protect the skin from sun damage, making them an excellent addition to your nighttime routine.
- Effective application techniques
First, thoroughly cleanse your skin before applying the serum. This removes impurities and makeup residue that could clog your pores.
Next, gently massage the serum onto your face using light, upward strokes to ensure even coverage.
It can also be helpful to gently tap your skin after application to aid absorption. Also, avoid using too much product; a small amount is usually enough for your entire face.
Finally, wait a few minutes before applying other products to your skin, allowing the serum to fully absorb.