Topical antioxidant skincare products help to protect the skin against oxidative stress, caused by free radicals from UV rays and pollution. There are many antioxidants and many products that contain antioxidants. These come in the form of serums, creams and lotions. Some are more potent than others and combined products often deliver a more powerful product with more impactful results.
Which antioxidant should I use?
Vitamin C
Is known for brightening dull skin and preventing premature ageing of the skin. It has calming properties and will not only hydrate your skin, but can boost collagen too, so really is a superhero antioxidant! This is best used in the morning to make the most of its ability to prevent sun damage. Best for: Sun damaged skin, uneven skin tones
At Hedox we love these Vitamin C products :
SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic (for dryer skin)
SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF (for oily skin, acne prone skin and discoloured skin)
SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF (for oily skin, acne prone skin and ageing skin)
Obagi Professional-C serum (for sun-damaged and pigmentation)
Vitamin A (Retinoic acid, retinol, tretinoin)
Vitamin A is brilliant for its anti-ageing properties. It fights off free radicals, accelerates cell renewal and repair and boosts the production of collagen, therefore reducing the signs of fine lines and ageing.
Retinol is concentrated Vitamin A and is a star product in skincare. It is effective at improving fine lines, brightening skin, reducing scars and evening skin tone. It is a powerful antioxidant and must be introduced slowly, starting at lower concentrations and at staggered intervals to prevent flaking and break-outs, but once your skin has become accustomed to this, it can be increased. Tretinoin is even stronger than Retinol. Best for: Ageing skin and sun-damaged skin. Sensitive skin must start on the lowest concentrations and introduce slowly to avoid irritation. May not be suitable for very sensitive skin.
At Hedox we love these Retinol (Vitamin A) products:
ZO Skin Health Retinol Skin Brightener 1.0%
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a gentle, nourishing and moisturising antioxidant that has natural anti-inflammatory properties, but is not too intense. It stabilises the skin barrier, offers protection against free radicals and anti-ageing and helps keep the skin soft and prevent scarring. Vitamin E is excellent for accelerating the skin’s healing process.
Vitamin E can help protect the skin from absorbing UV light, but Vitamin E can also be depleted by UVB, so it is often used in conjunction with Vitamin C to stabilise it and make it even more powerful. SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic is a perfect example of this wonderful combination. Best for: Suitable for all skin types. Good for dry skin.
At Hedox we love these Vitamin E products:
NeoStrata Resurface High Potency Cream
NeoStrata Problem Dry Skin Cream
Vitamin B3
Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) is a powerful antioxidant that helps the skin to fight oxidative stress caused by environmental factors. It helps improve skin hydration and reduce fine lines and winkles. It improves general skin tone and texture and can help to reduce brown spots and redness. It can also help strengthen and protect the skin barrier. Best for: Vitamin B3 can be good for acne prone skin.
At Hedox we love these Vitamin B3 products:
SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense Serum
NeoStrata Enlighten Illuminating Serum
Resveratrol
Resveratrol is an antioxidant that helps boost the skin’s defence system and its ability to self-repair. It also helps in the skin’s fight against anti-aging by protecting the skin against damage from UVB rays. It is found naturally in grapes, berries, peanuts and red wine. Resveratrol will help to prevent pigmentation and boost collagen production. Best for: Suitable for all skin types. Good for sun-damaged skin.
At Hedox we love:
Skinceuticals Resveratrol BE (Use at night time if not using Retinol)
In summary, if you don’t have any antioxidants in your skincare routine yet, then your skin will be grateful for the new addition! Often, these antioxidants work best in combination with one another. Clever combinations can increase their benefits and their efficacy. The products that we champion at the Hedox clinic are combination antioxidants such as SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF (for oily skin, acne prone skin and ageing skin). We especially love antioxidant serums. They offer powerful, effective ingredients combined, to deliver the ultimate serums, with less products to apply.
Any antioxidant products should be used in combination with a cleanser suitable for your skin type and a broad-spectrum SPF as a minimum to deliver an effective skincare regimen.
If you would like to discuss what antioxidants are right for you and an appropriate skincare routine with our Aesthetic Doctors, please contact the Hedox Clinic to arrange a free remote consultation on 0208 185 7273 or email us at info@hedoxclinic.co.uk