What is an Antioxidant?

I have written so much about putting antioxidants on your skin and how good they are for you, that I should actually explain what an antioxidant is for those of you who don't know.

Antioxidants are substances that prevent or slow oxidation (think about a peeled apple browning). Antioxidants are vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that protect the body from free radical damage. Free radicals are a result of an unhealthy diet, sun, pollution, smoke, and chemicals. Free radicals attack healthy cells and can lead to many diseases. Free radicals also break down collegen and cause premature aging. Antioxidants help prevent the good cells from turning bad. They have also been reported to promote cell growth, collegen production, and prevent sagging.

The most common antioxidants are vitamins A, C, E, Beta Carotene, and Selenium and the best way to get them is by eating a healthy well rounded diet. Your plate should be colorful! You can also get them by taking a supplement. You can apply antioxidants to your skin by applying creams and serums that contain antioxidants. Also keep in mind that antioxidants used in conjunction with a broad spectrum sunscreen decreases UV damage compared with using sunscreen alone. So be sure to apply an antioxidant serum to the skin before you apply your sunscreen or use a sunscreen that contains antioxidants. Remember, Little Goddess products such as our foundations, blushes, powders are full of antioxidants-not only do we look great-we are great for you too!