Free Radicals, Antioxidants and Skin
We hear so much about free radicals, antioxidants and the damage from oxidative stress. But, what exactly are these things? The story starts at a very small level.
What are Free Radicals?
Free radicals are highly unstable molecules or atoms that can damage the cells in our body, including skin cells. These molecules have an odd number of electrons. This is a problem because it’s in the nature of electrons to seek a stable form by pairing with another electron. They are always trying to bond with other atoms/molecules so all of the electrons are paired up. When electrons aren’t bonded into a stable molecule, they are “free” and can steal electrons from any nearby molecules. That nearby molecule, by losing an electron in this way, then becomes unstable. This can create a chain reaction where more and more molecules become unstable and this results in damage to our body’s cells.
The source of free radicals in our skin can come from a variety of things such as sun exposure, pollution, cigarette smoke, chemicals, and even stress. The damage that these free radicals cause is often referred to as "oxidative stress." (Its named “oxidative” because of intricate cellular reactions)
How Do Free Radicals Affect the Skin?
When free radicals attack skin cells, they can do several harmful things. The most noticeable effect is accelerating aging. Over time, free radicals can break down important proteins in our skin, such as collagen and elastin. Collagen gives our skin strength and structure, while elastin helps it return to its original shape after stretching. When free radicals break down these proteins, the skin loses its firmness and elasticity, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and other visible signs of aging.
Additionally, free radicals can damage the skin's DNA. This can make skin cells more likely to mutate, which increases the risk of conditions like skin cancer.
Another effect of free radicals on the skin is inflammation. When the skin is under oxidative stress, it can become irritated, red, or inflamed. This can worsen conditions like acne, eczema, and rosacea.
In essence, free radicals are like tiny “invaders” that disrupt the normal, healthy function of your skin cells, causing both immediate and long-term damage.
What Are Antioxidants and How Do They Help?
Now that we know how free radicals cause damage, let’s talk about antioxidants—the heroes of this story. Antioxidants are natural molecules that help neutralize free radicals. Antioxidants are able to donate an electron to stabilize free radicals without becoming unstable themselves.
Think of antioxidants like "bodyguards" for your skin cells. They patrol the body and skin, neutralizing the harmful free radicals before they can do any damage. This helps to protect the skin from premature aging, reduces the risk of inflammation, and may even reduce the chance of skin cancer by preventing DNA damage.
Antioxidants are found in many plants including herbs, fruits, vegetables, and plant oils.
The Balance Between Free Radicals and Antioxidants
Our bodies naturally produce antioxidants to help balance out the free radicals we encounter daily. However, things like aging, poor diet, pollution, and chemicals can reduce our natural antioxidant levels. When the number of free radicals outweighs the available antioxidants, the skin is left vulnerable to oxidative damage. This is why protecting the skin with antioxidants—both through the food we eat and the skincare products we use—is essential for maintaining youthful, healthy skin.
The Role of Herbs in Skin Care
Topical herbs can be a powerful way to help relieve oxidative stress on the skin due to their natural antioxidant properties. When applied to the skin, certain herbs can help neutralize free radicals, soothe inflammation, and promote skin healing, all of which reduce the damage caused by oxidative stress. Whether you use them in serums, oils, creams, cleansers or masks, incorporating these herbs into your skincare routine, in addition to your diet, is an easy and effective way to fight oxidative stress and support your skin’s overall health.