What are the popular antioxidant ingredients in cosmetics?

Why Do We Need Antioxidants in Cosmetics?

In the constantly evolving world of cosmetics, one term that has gained significant attention is antioxidants. These powerful substances play a crucial role in protecting our skin from the damaging effects of environmental factors such as pollution and UV radiation. Antioxidants function as oxygen radical scavengers, reactive oxygen species (ROS) inhibitors, peroxide decomposers, and enzyme inhibitors.

• Protection Against Free Radicals

Free radicals, unstable molecules capable of causing cellular damage, are a constant threat to our skin. These reactive species are produced as a result of natural body processes and external factors like pollution, cigarette smoke, and UV radiation. When free radicals interact with cellular components, they can lead to premature aging, wrinkles, and even contribute to the development of certain skin disorders. Antioxidants combat these free radicals by neutralizing them before they can cause harm.

• Prevention of Oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress occurs when the production of free radicals exceeds the body's ability to neutralize them. This imbalance can result in damage to key skin components such as collagen and elastin, leading to a loss of firmness and elasticity. Examples include phenolic compounds, resveratrol, and more.

ROS induction factors and the role of phenolic compounds. [1]

• Enhanced Skin Repair

Antioxidants not only protect against environmental damage but also support the skin's natural repair mechanisms. By neutralizing free radicals, they help reduce inflammation and facilitate the healing process of the skin, promoting faster recovery from wounds, acne, and other skin irritations. For example, naphthoic acid acts as a strong regulator of keratinization of hair follicles, thereby reducing inflammation, acne, and hyperkeratosis.

Popular Antioxidant Ingredients

Some popular antioxidant ingredients and their functions are listed below for reference only. It's important to remember that while antioxidants provide numerous benefits, their efficacy in cosmetics may vary depending on factors such as concentration, formulation, and stability.

• Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): Often found in serums and creams, vitamin C helps to brighten the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and protect against environmental damage.
• Vitamin E (Tocopherol): This potent antioxidant helps to protect the skin from free radicals, improve skin moisture and elasticity, and soothe inflammation.
• Green Tea Extract: Rich in polyphenols and catechins, green tea extract provides antioxidant protection and anti-inflammatory benefits to the skin.
• Resveratrol: Derived from grapes, resveratrol helps to neutralize free radicals, reduce inflammation, and promote collagen production.
• Coenzyme Q10: Known for its energizing capabilities, Coenzyme Q10 works as a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from damage and reduce the signs of aging.
• Retinol: Apart from being a popular anti-aging ingredient, retinol also acts as an antioxidant, aiding in the reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
• Ferulic Acid: Often found in combination with vitamin C and E, ferulic acid helps to stabilize and enhance the effectiveness of other antioxidants, providing enhanced protection against free radicals.
• Niacinamide: Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide functions as an antioxidant and helps to improve the skin's texture, reduce pore size, and even out skin tone.
• Pomegranate Extract: Rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, pomegranate extract helps to protect the skin against oxidative stress, promote collagen synthesis, and improve overall skin health.
• Astaxanthin: A natural red pigment found in marine plants and animals, astaxanthin has powerful antioxidant properties that protect against photoaging caused by UV radiation and other environmental factors.

Reference

1. Hoang H T, et al. Cosmetics, 2021, 8(4): 106.

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What are the popular antioxidant ingredients in cosmetics?

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