Most of us know that using an SPF can reduce the risk of skin cancer and prevent premature aging. But did you know that antioxidants can increase the effectiveness of sun protection?
Sun Protection is not fail-safe
Sunscreens are great, but they don't offer 100% protection against the sun's harmful rays. A sunscreen with SPF 15 blocks 93% of UV rays , while SPF 30 prevents 97% and SPF 50 or higher stops about 98% . Additionally, most people do not apply sunscreen often enough or in the correct amounts to adequately protect themselves.
The remaining UV radiation that penetrates the skin generates free radicals that can damage the dermis and accelerate the aging process. You may not be able to see or feel it, but your skin is being damaged at a much deeper level and the effects will only be visible in the future. This doesn't mean that sunscreen is ineffective or that you shouldn't use it (it's certainly been proven to help protect your skin from sun damage), but even superheroes need a little help from time to time!
Antioxidants come to the Rescue
Antioxidants can help compensate for sunscreen deficiencies (and poor application). They neutralize free radical damage caused by sun exposure. Additionally, antioxidants help protect the skin against other sources of free radicals, such as blue light from digital devices. Without intervention, this damage can cause all kinds of unwanted skin problems.
Many antioxidants also offer calming properties (pollution leads to stressed and inflamed skin). They are also used to stabilize sunscreen formulations, while increasing their effectiveness.
Bottom line: Antioxidants increase the effectiveness of sunscreen and ensure maximum protection, while repairing any damage that has been caused to the skin.
How and when should you apply SPF-boosting Antioxidants?
The easiest way to benefit from enhanced protection is by applying a sunscreen (or day cream with SPF) formulated with antioxidants. Do this consistently: every morning, as the last step of your skincare routine.
Alternatively, you can use an antioxidant serum before applying your SPF. For maximum benefit, you may also want to use an antioxidant-rich night cream that will help repair any sun damage while you sleep. Don't worry about applying too many antioxidants, your skin never gets enough!
All of the above will help defend your skin and keep it flexible, healthy and radiant.
What Antioxidants are the best?
When it comes to antioxidants, the more the better. There is no one best antioxidant, but rather hundreds of fantastic antioxidants that complement and enhance the benefits of sun protection. The following list contains a small selection of antioxidants backed by extensive research showing that they counteract the negative effects of UV rays:
- coffee fruit extract
- ferulic acid
- Glutathione
- Green Tea
- Kiwi extract
- Superoxide dismutase
- Ubiquinone
- Vitamins C and E (all forms)
- White Tea Leaf Extract
- wild cherry extract
These are just the tip of the iceberg, there are many more to explore! See SPF Moisturizers
