How and why use an antioxidant serum?
Skin weakens with age, losing regenerative functions such as vascular reactivity, and structure in the skin barrier and tissues over time.
It's also important to stress that the various factors responsible for skin ageing can be a natural process, but can also be accelerated by free radicals that accentuate cell destructuring and oxidation.
These are produced by the air we breathe, and the body generally eliminates them as it goes along. However, a number of factors, such as an unhealthy lifestyle (poor diet, alcohol, tobacco), can lead to the overproduction of free radicals. This leads to oxidation and cell destruction when they proliferate abnormally. That's why antioxidant serums are ideal for all premature signs of aging, such as brown spotsloss of radiance and blemishes. Antioxidant serums combat skin aging and prevent the multiplication of free radicals. It is a real shield against signs of aging.
What are antioxidants?
They can be broken down 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 of 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, topically applied antioxidants help to protect the skin and combat the free radicals responsible for cell aging.
Why use an antioxidant serum?
Skin ageing follows a chronological order and is genetically programmed, but the predominant action of oxygenated free radicals produced in the body promotes skin slackening. This results in the appearance of the first wrinkles, loss of elasticity, skin atrophy and changes in immune and inflammatory responses.
The so-called stochastic theory is based on the fact that when cells are subjected to changes in pressure or changes in the environment in which they normally live, they are able to anticipate these changes by means of well-defined strategies. But when these cells are subjected to too many free radicals attacking the epidermis, the result is a disorder within them. This is known as oxidative stress. Over time, the skin loses its defenses and pigmentation disorders appear.
The use of antioxidants helps to protect against free radicals, combat cellular oxidation, reduce inflammation, fill in wrinkles and combat sagging skin. Their presence in serums helps keep skin supple and elastic. They also help maintain a radiant, even complexion.
How to use an antioxidant serum
Before choosing an antioxidant serum, it's important to know your skin type. Specific skin types, such as sensitiveoily, atopic, itchy or even normal skin. normal skin can benefit from specific formulations.
For example, if you have dry skin, you may wish to choose a serum containing moisturizing oils. If you have oily skin, look for light, non-comedogenic formulas.
Vitamin C, vitamin E, retinol, seed oils 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 suit you best.
- Integration into daily care routine
When it comes to skin care, it's important to apply a serum with antioxidant properties before applying a moisturizer. A routine consists of several steps in chronological order, which must be followed in order to see their benefits: toner, serum, eye contour, moisturizer then a sun cream.
By applying the serum first, powerful antioxidants penetrate deep into the skin, protecting it from damage caused by free radicals and environmental aggressors.
Antioxidant serums play an indispensable role in any skin care routine. They are primarily used for their anti-aging benefits, but not only. They will tightenpores, moisturize, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, fade imperfections, reduce redness, restore radiance...
The next step is to seal in moisture and nutrients with a moisturizing cream, ensuring optimal hydration and a reinforced protective barrier.
We suggest using the antioxidant serum morning and night for longer-lasting protection during the day and repair at night while you sleep. In addition, retinol serums are said to prepare the skin for sun damage, making them an excellent addition to your night-time routine.
- Effective application techniques
First, thoroughly cleanse your skin before applying the serum to remove impurities and make-up residues that can clog your pores.
Then gently massage the serum into your face, using gentle upward strokes to evenly cover the entire face.
It may also be helpful to pat the skin lightly after application to help absorption. Avoid applying too much product. A small amount is usually enough to cover the whole face.
Finally, wait a few minutes before applying other products to your skin to allow the serum to penetrate effectively.