Part Two of this series continues with more pros and cons in our ongoing discussion of adaptogens and antioxidants and how they contribute to reduced stress levels and healthier skin. So, If either of these outcomes interest you, read on…
But if you would like to start at the beginning of this series, you can click HERE.
The Possible Negative Effects of Adaptogens and Antioxidants
The primary disadvantage of incorporating antioxidants into skincare ingredients is that there is no certainty that the formula can produce any effects.
The issue is dual in nature. To begin, what works in the laboratory does not always apply to the real world. Although numerous studies demonstrate that some skincare ingredients possess antioxidant properties, it is unclear how much of that antioxidant content would be applicable to and beneficial to your skin. Much is dependent on the product’s composition.
The skin must be able to process Antioxidants. This is in order to be effective. Their absorption rate is highly dependent on the formulation of the skincare component.
The second issue is that antioxidants are very fragile. Antioxidants have the tendency towards quick inactivation. This renders them ineffective in your skincare product. As subjected to sun, air, and temperature changes, antioxidants degrade rapidly.
A study is currently underway to determine the best way to formulate drugs to deliver the most potent antioxidants to the skin.
The Most Powerful Adaptogens and Antioxidants for Skincare
Since antioxidants are not a single component, you would not see the term “antioxidant” in the ingredients list of your skincare product. Rather than that, antioxidants refer to a wide category of ingredients that all act in the same way: they combat free radical harm.
The following are some of the most well-researched adaptogens and antioxidants used in skincare:
Vitamin C:
One of the most commonly used and well-studied antioxidants in skin care is vitamin C, aka L-ascorbic acid or ester-C. Vitamin C promotes collagen formation and is the most effective antioxidant for lightening dark stains. But there is a catch. It is notoriously unstable. This can be somewhat mitigated by using dark, ideally air-lock, wrapping.
Vitamin E:
In addition to being an antioxidant, vitamin E aids in the speeding up of regeneration and acts as a moisturizer.
Ferulic Acid:
Ferulic acid applied topically can help protect against sun damage. It works well when combined with topical vitamins C and E.
Retinol:
Retinol is a type of vitamin A and is arguably the most important over-the-counter (OTC) ingredient for fine lines and wrinkle reduction. Additionally, retinol accelerates cell turnover and smooths the skin.
Coenzyme Q10:
Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant produced by your body. It occurs normally in the skin but is depleted when we mature. Coenzyme Q10 can help improve the elasticity and texture of the skin.
Botanical extracts (phytoextracts):
Several botanical extracts are incorporated into skincare products due to their antioxidant properties. Among the most common are green or white tea, coffee, calendula, and rosemary, but there are several others. Botanical extracts are a very important component in skincare products and are often blended into blends.
Niacinamide:
Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide increases the color and feel of the skin while also assisting in the fading of dark spots.
Resveratrol:
A compound present in strawberries, fruit, red wine, and tea, resveratrol is anti-inflammatory and beneficial for UV defense. Additionally, it can increase collagen and elastin production.
Turmeric:
Curcumin is a relatively new ingredient in over-the-counter skincare products. It is a polyphenol used in the spice turmeric. It is thought to possess anti-inflammatory and skin brightening properties while remaining colorless (tumeric is known for its bold yellow color).
How to Use a Skin Care Product
Antioxidant skincare brands abound on the market today. Indeed, your current skincare routine almost certainly includes at least one product containing antioxidants, since they are so prevalent and common.
Thus, you have options — maybe too many, in reality. Here are a few pointers to assist you in selecting a commodity.
What is the ultimate objective? It is preferable to begin with the end in mind. Do you want to fade dark spots, smooth fine lines, or shield your skin from sun damage? This will help you determine the product type to seek.
Go for Variety in Adaptogens and Antioxidants
Choose a food that includes a variety of antioxidants. According to studies, skincare products that contain a variety of antioxidant ingredients have a higher antioxidant activity and are therefore more efficient.
Experiment with various brands before you discover one that you like. The brand name is secondary to the sensation the substance creates on the skin. If you like the way something looks, you’re more inclined to do it on a consistent basis. Additionally, antioxidant drugs are only effective when used consistently. You’ll need to use them consistently to see results.
Consider the other ingredients in the product. Adaptogens and antioxidants are not the only additives with skin-beneficial properties. There are several additional anti-aging skincare ingredients to look for in over-the-counter skincare items that can help enhance the skin’s appearance and feel. Hyaluronic acid is a miracle worker when it comes to hydrating dry skin. Glycolic acid, lactic acid, and mandelic acid also help to brighten the skin and prevent ageing. Consider the substance in its entirety to see whether it meets the skin’s needs.
Do you want recommendations? Inquire of a professional. It is natural to feel overwhelmed. You should see a dermatologist or esthetician for product recommendations. (However, some estheticians can only recommend items available in their own salons.)
A final word on adaptogens and antioxidants from Kim…
Be practical about the expected potential benefits of adaptogens and antioxidants in skin care products. Although antioxidants will make the skin appear lighter and feel healthier, they will not show dramatic results overnight. Long-term use can yield the best effects.
So if you want to see a significant difference in the appearance of sun exposure, fine lines, and wrinkles, prescription topical retinoids such as Retin-A or Renova are extremely powerful. They will provide you with improved outcomes in less time than an over-the-counter adaptogens and antioxidants skincare product. Additional therapies such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser treatments can be considered if you want a more dramatic upgrade.
Whatever the skincare regimen entails, don’t forget to use sunscreen. It is never too late to begin sun protection.
[…] Click HERE to read part II… […]