Antioxidants

The Role of Antioxidants in Skincare

Here at Medical Aesthetics of the Hudson Valley we spend a lot of time researching the best and most proven practices in skin care.

One of the things we talk about A LOT is the is the importance of an antioxidant applied to your skin daily. We are excited to share some easy to understand information about antioxidants as an integral part of healthier, younger looking skin.

First, a little bit of science:
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that combats free radical damage. But what exactly is that? Let’s return to basic science class: each molecule is made up of atoms. An atom has a nucleus, proton, electron and neutron. Normally, electrons share a bond with each other to bond the atom together to form molecules. However, molecules with UNPAIRED electrons happen, and these are called free radicals. These free radicals cause oxidation which is breakdown and destruction.

What are Free Radicals?
Although it might sound fun to be a free radical, they are really bad for your skin.
Free radicals are unstable and chemically reactive. They are generated by UV exposure (SUN!) infrared radiation, pollution, cigarette smoke and alcohol to name a few. Over time, free radical damage leads to visible signs of aging, fine lines and wrinkles, laxity, discoloration and even skin cancer.

The most important antioxidants for healthy, beautiful skin:
Vitamin C and E, glutathione, ubiquinone and alpha lipoic acid. These ingredients provide internal protection from skin damaging free radicals. In addition to protection you will enjoy noticeable improvement in collagen stimulation and brighter skin.

Research has clearly proven: For broad range protection against environmental skin insults, it’s imperative to use topical antioxidant in conjunction with daily sunblock.
* Haywood, R., et al, J Invest Dermatol 2006;121:862-868

So, what does this mean for clients of Medical Aesthetics of the Hudson Valley?
Our high quality, prescription skin care products have been proven with research to fight free radical damage and improve the appearance of the skin. Our prescription grade products are formulated according to pharmaceutical standards of purity, potency and stability.