Every day, our skin is subjected to multiple attacks: pollution, UV rays, stress, poor diet, lack of sleep, etc. These factors trigger a phenomenon that is often overlooked but is nevertheless central to skin aging: the attack of free radicals .
Understanding their impact is essential to adopting the right actions and preserving the youthfulness and health of your skin over the long term.
But what exactly are free radicals ? Why are they so harmful to our skin? And above all, how can we effectively protect our skin, naturally, with the right skincare products and supplements, like those offered by Demain Beauty ? We'll explain everything.
What are free radicals?
Free radicals are unstable molecules produced by our bodies. What makes them special? They lack an electron. To stabilize themselves, they try to "steal" this electron from other healthy cells, thus triggering a destructive chain reaction. This phenomenon is called oxidative stress.
It's important to note that free radicals aren't always harmful. In moderate amounts, they're even helpful for the proper functioning of our bodies, particularly in fighting certain infections. The problem arises when they're produced in excess, particularly as a result of environmental factors or unbalanced lifestyles.
What are the factors that promote the production of free radicals?
Oxidative stress results from an imbalance between the production of free radicals and our body's ability to neutralize them through its antioxidant defense systems. Several factors can tip the scales in the wrong direction:
Exposure to UV rays (especially without sunscreen)
Air pollution
Tobacco
A diet poor in nutrients
Chronic stress
Lack of sleep
Intense physical activity without sufficient recovery
All of these elements promote an overproduction of free radicals, which our body then has difficulty managing on its own.
Free radicals and the skin: what visible impacts?
Since the skin is on the front line against external aggressions, it is particularly sensitive to excess free radicals. Oxidative stress has multiple effects on the skin:
Loss of radiance of the complexion
Premature appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
Sagging skin
Pigmentation spots
Chronic inflammations
Alteration of the skin microbiome
Simply put, free radicals accelerate skin aging. They attack collagen and elastin fibers, which are responsible for skin firmness and elasticity. They also oxidize the lipids in the skin barrier, making the skin more vulnerable, drier, and duller.
How to fight free radicals?
Good news: it's entirely possible to limit the impact of free radicals, or even reverse some of their effects, by strengthening the body's and skin's antioxidant defenses. Here are some concrete ideas:
1. Focus on an antioxidant diet
Some foods are naturally rich in antioxidants: vitamins C and E, polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, etc. They are found in red fruits, green leafy vegetables, green tea, raw cocoa, and virgin olive oil. A varied and colorful diet remains your best ally against free radicals.
2. Protect yourself from external attacks
Limiting prolonged exposure to the sun (or using suitable protection), avoiding tobacco, cleansing your skin thoroughly at the end of the day and adopting a more gentle lifestyle are simple but fundamental actions to prevent oxidative stress.
3. Adopt cosmetic treatments rich in antioxidants
Some treatments contain active ingredients capable of neutralizing free radicals, stimulating the skin's natural defenses and strengthening the skin barrier.
Go For Protection , Demain Beauty's antioxidant day cream, has been specifically formulated to provide comprehensive protection against daily aggressors. It contains natural vitamin C, prebiotics, probiotics, and hyaluronic acid to strengthen skin while restoring radiance and suppleness.
In addition, Happy Age serum works deep down to boost skin regeneration, reduce the signs of aging, and protect cells from oxidative stress. Thanks to its biotechnology-derived active ingredients, it preserves the skin's elasticity and youthfulness.
4. Cleanse your skin gently but thoroughly
Removing impurities, pollution particles and residue from the day is crucial to prevent their interaction with free radicals on the skin's surface.
Go For Glow Exfoliating Cleansing Gel is a must-have in an anti-oxidant routine. It purifies without stripping, stimulates cell renewal, and prepares the skin for protective care.
