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What are free radicals and oxidative stress?
- Learn about your skin
Free radicals and oxidative stress are very often associated with skin ageing, and for a good reason. These highly reactive molecular species can disrupt the functioning of our cells when their concentration increases. This disturbance, known as oxidative stress, accelerates the appearance of the signs of ageing.
Published on 04/11/21
What are the famous free radicals?
Free radicals are highly reactive compounds continuously produced by our body. In many ways, they contribute to the proper functioning of our cells. Problems arise when their concentration increases. Vitamin E and vitamin C, antioxidants naturally present in our cells, capture these free radicals and strengthen our natural defences.
However, the production of free radicals increases under the influence of overexposure to UV radiation, smoking, or air pollution. Under these conditions, the species formed, known as oxidants, are toxic, as they cause undesirable chemical reactions with harmful effects on the body, including skin ageing. DNA, cell walls, and proteins become the target of these free radicals and suffer degradation. Like a cut apple that turns brown, our skin is subjected to the repeated assaults of oxidation caused by these reactive molecules over a more extended period. It is therefore essential to protect ourselves as soon as possible.
What is oxidative stress?
When free radicals accumulate and the body’s natural antioxidants cannot counter their actions, cells must adapt their biological functions. This adaptation is what we call oxidative stress.
Free radicals, accelerators of skin ageing
In the process of skin ageing, free radicals attack the cells in the dermis that are responsible for the production of the skin’s structural proteins, such as collagen, hyaluronic acid, and elastin. These three proteins ensure the skin’s firmness and elasticity. Although the production of these proteins naturally decreases with age, oxidative stress worsens the process and impacts cell renewal.
The visible consequences of ageing are the appearance of wrinkles, spots, and sagging skin.
How can I protect my skin from free radicals?
A healthy diet, deep moisturising of the skin, adequate sun protection, and anti-ageing creams enriched with antioxidants are all easy actions to take to prevent the signs of skin ageing.
Citrus fruits, green fruits and vegetables, and oily fish are a list of foods rich in natural antioxidants. Supplementing your arsenal with deeply moisturising skin care creams enriched with antioxidants will strengthen your skin’s defences against free radicals and the signs of ageing.
At what age should I start protecting my skin against free radicals?
The earlier you start taking care of your skin, the easier it will be to fight the premature appearance of the first signs of ageing. Incorporate moisturising and antioxidant cosmetics into your daily skincare routine. Are you 25 years old and want to keep your skin young? Choose the right skin care product for your skin type for optimal prevention.
The creams, serums, and shower oils developed by Maison Éole contain Wine Extracts3, a unique antioxidant extracted from vine shoots with unparalleled antioxidant power. Maison Éole offers you a qualitative skincare line with visible anti-ageing power as part of your beauty routine.