We like to boast about how our natural skin care products help protect against free radicals. But what exactly are free radicals and why do we want to be protected from them? Read on for our simple guide on these interesting (and pesky!) molecules, why they cause skin aging, and how you can balance them to promote healthy, youthful skin.
What are free radicals?
Free radicals are essentially tiny molecules with an electron missing. In an effort to become ‘whole,’ they steal electrons from other molecules. We actually produce free radicals internally and this is normal and healthy.
So what’s the harm?
When we have excess free radicals in our bodies, they steal electrons from otherwise healthy molecules. This causes damage to skin cells, DNA, and collagen production (eek!) Visually, the effect on our skin shows up as wrinkles, sagging, and dryness.
What causes excess free radicals?
Excess free radicals are caused by environmental aggressors – like sun exposure, pollution, radiation, and second-hand smoke – most of which are unavoidable. Having a poor diet and excess alcohol consumption are also contributors (which you can control)!
The key to keeping free radicals at a healthy level?
✨Antioxidants ✨
Antioxidants voluntarily give one of their electrons to a free radical molecule, without hurting themselves! This means that the healthy molecules that are responsible for keeping our skin healthy and youthful are kept whole and fully functional.
Both of our Skin Rebel Active Serums, Brightening & Lightening, and Collagen Stimulating, contain many natural ingredients with potent antioxidants, including apricot kernel oil, arctic winged kelp extract, ginkgo biloba leaf extract, rosehip seed oil, vitamin A, C, and E. Even our Mineral Sunscreen contains antioxidants, from the shea butter, sweet almond oil, jojoba seed oil, and naturally occurring vitamins.
There you have it – some context on how Solimara’s natural skin care products help protect against free radicals, helping you naturally achieve healthy, youthful skin 🌿
TIP: Foods that are a great source of antioxidants include dark chocolate, spinach, beets, beans, berries, pecans, and artichokes.