The keys to free radicals
Surely you have heard about the negative effects that free radicals have on our skin, and how an excess of these molecules in our body can lead to cellular oxidation and thus skin ageing. As it is an important factor for us to keep in mind regarding skin care and skin health, in this post we explain the keys to free radicals, the main effects on our skin and how we can reduce them. Are you interested?
Why are free radicals so important?
According to Ruiz and Morales (2015), the factors which have an influence on the cutaneous ageing of our skin can be summarised with the following outline. We can specifically divide these factors into two categories: intrinsic and extrinsic. Between those two is where we find the “famous” free radicals.
The main effect of free radicals is that they lead to premature skin ageing. Why? Well, mainly because of their negative effects on collagen. We must keep in mind that collagen is a protein that helps to maintain our skin’s firmness and elasticity; its absence –caused by an excess of free radicals– has an influence on the dryness, premature appearance of wrinkles and/or fine lines and lack of elasticity on our face.
What are the factors that have an impact on the formation of free radicals?
The formation of free radicals may be related to different processes in the body, as in the case of the immune system (when there is a need to attack bacteria or viruses) or the metabolism. Additionally, however, there are other external factors that can increase the amount of free radicals in the body, such as:
- A poor diet
- Contamination
- Tobacco
How does your body react to free radicals? Your body can control those free radicals that occur naturally, but if a very large amount is produced then that is where the possible damage begins.
Is it possible to fight an excess of free radicals?
Yes, primarily with antioxidants.
The most natural way to consume antioxidants is through food. An adequate intake of vitamin-rich foods (such as vitamin C and E) and beta-carotene is recommended.
Antioxidants neutralise free radicals with a simple action: they donate one of their electrons which thus ends the electron-stealing chain which created the domino-effect formation of free radicals.
We also have anti-ageing dermo-cosmetic treatments that help us combat free radicals. As we know, these treatments may be preventative –delaying the effects of skin ageing– or restorative – improving the condition of ageing skin. In both cases, at MartiDerm we help you in this endeavour. Take a look at our proteoglycan bulbs and fight time and the internal and external factors that affect your skin's health.
Now that we have learnt about the origin of free radicals and the causes that can lead to their excess, the best piece of advice we can give you is to maintain a balanced diet and avoid poor habits. And enjoy life freely without letting free radicals get the best of you!
