A major step? Fighting oxidative stress, one of the primary contributors to aging. Our bodies have natural ways of keeping free radicals in check, though. Plus, free radicals aren’t necessarily malicious. In low to moderate amounts, they can lend a hand. For instance, white blood cells called phagocytes make and store free radicals2. If unwelcome invaders come around, the phagocytes can come to our defense by unleashing free radicals. The issue is when there are too many, which can break down cellular structures, including DNA and cell membranes3. And if your body’s production of free radicals surpasses its ability to control them, the result is oxidative stress. Essentially, your skin—and the rest of your body—is not a fan of extended oxidative stress. Antioxidant-rich foods can be summed up in one word: plants. Lots of ’em. See, plants have antioxidants5 to protect themselves from oxidative stress, a perk you can also enjoy by eating a plant-based diet full of fruits, vegetables, herbs, nuts, and whole grains. (For what it’s worth—your body also produces antioxidants on it’s own, too. But consuming additional varieties helps your body function properly.) We also encourage people to take targeted skin supplements to help get your fill of a robust variety, so you can get a wide spectrum of benefits unique to each. Astaxanthin supports the skin’s collagen layer, helps reduce fine lines and age spots, and supports skin hydration.* Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant that’s actually naturally produced by the body, but declines with age. When supplemented (especially as bioactive ubiquinol form), it increases your natural levels—leading to enhanced cellular energy,6 rejuvenation, and decreased lipid breakdown.* Pomegranate whole fruit extract enhances cellular detox and has the ability to enhance photoprotection7 in the skin, meaning your skin cells are better equipped to deal with UV rays and their subsequent effects.* For example, one randomized controlled trial found that the pomegranate extract increased skin’s resilience8 against UVB rays, as well as changes to the skin microbiome.* Green also suggests using topical CoQ10, a natural antioxidant in the body. Our built-in reserve supports skin health, elasticity, and texture. However, “as we age, our reserve diminishes. Using products rich in CoQ10 can bring back youthfulness to the skin,” notes Green. But remember, using topical antioxidants3 doesn’t replace eating fruits and veggies—and topicals only work on the area applied, rather than systemically. The goal is to boost your body’s overall defenses by consuming and applying antioxidants.* We also love vitamin C as a topical ingredient, as it supports collagen synthesis, cross-linking, and stabilizes the collagen you already have. So, about that sunscreen. “Sunscreen should be worn every day, rain or shine, as the sun’s radiation is always hitting the earth and bombarding your skin,” shares Cheung. “Broad-spectrum sunscreens with mineral blockers are the most stable, versus chemical blockers, which will deactivate with continued sun exposure.” Check out our favorite mineral sunscreens here. Also, when you’re stressed, your body puts skin health on the back burner. “Emotional and mental stress trigger a fight-or-flight response,” explains Hilsabeck. And if your body is constantly in this state of stress, it will prioritize survival, he says. “Your skin will suffer during periods of increased stress, [as] having beautiful skin is not a high priority for your body during a fight-or-flight response.” Moreover, poor sleep is linked to lower blood levels of defensive antioxidants, making it easier for free radicals to do their thing. And, get this: Melatonin—the “sleep hormone”—is also an antioxidant. A full night’s rest (and exposure to darkness) is essential for making enough melatonin. Basically, without enough shut-eye, cellular beauty will take a hit.
