WHAT ARE FREE RADICALS?
Once you understand how free radicals can damage your skin, you’ll be prepared to fight them off in the most efficient way possible.
In scientific terms, a free radical is highly a reactive, unstable molecule that is created by the body naturally as a byproduct of normal metabolism. Everything is made up of molecules, which contain atoms that are surrounded by electrons that float in their orbit. In a perfect world, there should always be multiple electrons in an atom’s orbit. Sometimes, an atom can break down, which results in the splitting of electrons and chaos in an orbit. In this case, the single electrons will try to find new electrons to pair up with. When they can’t, they will steal molecules from other cells; thus, creating a free radical.
Environmental factors, such as dust, sunlight, pollution, household cleaning products, alcohol, stress, and outdoor pesticides that our bodies absorb can also play a role in free radical development.
Here’s why it matters: When free radicals start to build up, visible damage to our bodies and skin occurs.
Free Radicals and Their Effect on Your Skin
When free radicals build up, those electrons steal healthy molecules from other places, which causes breakdown in our DNA. Because skin is the largest organ in our body, it’s where the most obvious, visible damage occurs.
Key impacts free radicals can have on your skin include:
- Aging
- Wrinkles
- Sagging
- Dryness
- Dullness
- Age spots
How to Fight Free Radicals
Although it’s impossible to limit free radicals completely, there are a few tips and tricks you can follow to reduce them.
Antioxidants are your best friend. Think vitamins and minerals. Stick to a healthy diet filled with superfoods in order to increase your antioxidant levels. Blueberries, broccoli, cauliflower, sweet potatoes, grapefruit, eggs, and carrots are just a few food sources to increase your intake. You can also apply serums that contain antioxidants topically. The Aeonia Age Defying Serum is a perfect option.
Limit sun exposure. Make sure you aren’t spending too much time in direct sunlight and always wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. These behaviors can trigger the production of free radicals in the body.
Manage stress. The production of free radicals makes your body more susceptible to stress. To reduce stress, try meditating, exercising, or carving out time in the day to do anything that makes you feel happy. Tip: try our Aeonia Eye Refresh to alleviate under-eye bags and experience the cooling applicator for an added massage.
Free radicals work hard, but your self-care and skincare routine can work harder. The best way to deal with free radicals is to be proactive about preventing damage and mindful of environmental factors that may trigger their production.
References:
- “Free Radicals: How They Affect Your Body,” Cleveland Clinic
- “The Impact of Free Radicals on Your Skin,” Curél
- “What are Free Radicals, and How Do They Affect Your Skin,” Today
