What is the role of antioxidants in skincare?

Antioxidants play a crucial role in skincare primarily by protecting the skin from free radical damage. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress, leading to signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines, as well as other skin concerns like hyperpigmentation and loss of elasticity. By neutralizing these free radicals, antioxidants help to maintain the integrity of the skin, reducing the risk of damage and promoting a healthier, more youthful appearance.

This protective function is vital since free radicals are often generated by environmental factors such as UV radiation, pollution, and smoking, all of which can compromise the skin's barrier and its overall health. Including antioxidants in skincare products can therefore enhance the skin's resilience against such external aggressors.

While some options consider other beneficial effects in skincare—like enhancing moisture, providing texture, and nourishing the skin—these aspects do not directly address the core function of antioxidants, which is to combat oxidative stress and safeguard the skin from harmful effects caused by free radicals.