An antioxidant is a molecule that neutralizes free radicals in the body. “Free radicals are harmful unstable molecules that can damage your cells or DNA,” says board-certified dermatologist Zenovia Gabriel, M.D., FAAD. Free radicals can lead to inflammation and oxidative stress in the body—which you guessed it!—can trigger dark spot formation.
Unfortunately, free radicals are pretty pervasive: They come from pollution, UV rays, foods, internal stress, external aggressors, as well as just making them naturally as part of the metabolic process. It’s so important that you look for antioxidant-rich topicals in your skin care routine, so your skin can fend off the onslaught of these molecules on a daily basis.
“People often ask how many antioxidants you should be using regularly; the answer is: the more the better,” says board-certified dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, M.D., of Schweiger Dermatology Group. “The more you can help neutralize unstable molecules caused by free radical formation, the longer you can salvage the health of your cells and skin. There’s really no limit to how much you can protect and repair your body!”
Here are some of our favorite antioxidants to look for:
