Have you ever heard of free radicals? These highly reactive molecules harm our skin and contribute to the signs of premature aging. In this new article, we explain in depth what free radicals are, how they affect our skin, and how we can protect it from their harmful effects.
What exactly are they?
Free radicals are unstable molecules that are missing an essential part of their structure (an electron). To stabilize themselves, they seek and "steal" electrons from other molecules, causing damage in the process. Free radicals are naturally produced in our body as a result of normal metabolic processes, but can also be produced by external factors such as exposure to UVA rays, pollution, and smoking, among many other causes, such as stress.
How do free radicals affect our skin?
When produced in excess, free radicals cause a state known as oxidative stress and can manifest on our skin in many ways, but the most common are the following:
PREMATURE AGING: Free radicals can damage the collagen and elastin networks that give our skin its firmness and elasticity. This leads to the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging.
HYPERPIGMENTATION: Free radicals can also cause irregular overproduction of melanin in the skin, resulting in the formation of spots and uneven tone.
INFLAMMATION: They can also cause redness, irritation, and even acne.
How can we protect our skin from oxidative stress?
Now that we know how free radicals can affect our skin, let's see how to protect it from their effects:
ANTIOXIDANTS ARE YOUR BEST ALLIES: One of the best ways to counteract the effect of free radicals is to follow a skincare routine that provides a good boost of antioxidants to our skin. These active substances are capable of neutralizing free radicals.
The antioxidants we have incorporated into Twelve Beauty products have been selected after many years of research and exhaustive testing. Our formulas fuse potent ingredients that combat oxidative stress in the skin, such as Artemisia, Buddleja, Imperatoria, Mallow extract, and vitamin E. In fact, Ideal Brightening Corrective Serum, Rapid Eye Treatment and Ideal Moisture Level Serum are the three products in the collection that contain the most antioxidants.
SUNSCREEN IS A MUST: Sun exposure causes our skin to generate free radicals, so it is essential to protect our skin from the sun all year round with the use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF. The Twelve team are undisputed fans of Artemisia Power Protection Moisturizer SPF50+. Formulated with Artemisia extract and 100% natural physical filters, it provides broad daily mineral-based protection for the skin, while leaving the skin with a matte finish.
In conclusion, free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage our skin and contribute to the signs of aging. However, by using antioxidants, sunscreen, and managing stress, we can protect our skin from their harmful effects.