As a beauty editor/writer, I know that antioxidants are of utmost importance in the quest to fight the onset of ageing. Why? Well because they mop up ‘free radicals’ – those nasty, unstable molecules that damage our DNA, causing premature aging and disease.
Antioxidants counteract free radical damage by terminating the chain-reaction before vital molecules are damaged.
When applied topically (onto the skin), antioxidants offer the following benefits:
- UVA/UVB protection
- Stimulate collagen production
- Alleviate inflammation
- Protect against external aggressors like pollution,
- Neutralize free radical damage
So, it makes perfect sense to ensure that you include antioxidants in your beauty regime on a daily basis.
The most common antioxidants used in skincare products include: Vitamins A, C and E, Co-enzyme Q10, Green Tea extract, Ferulic acid and Phloretin. Keep your eyes peeled for these on a products ingredient listing.
Given my age (late 30’s) fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation and sagging are all major skin concerns. I try many, many products – some yield amazing results, other make no difference whatsoever.
One of my best discoveries of last year was a brand called ‘SkinCeuticals’ – A cosmeceutical (cosmetics that have medicinal properties) range endorsed by dermatologists, plastic surgeons, beauty editors and medi-spas the world over.
To say I’ve been blown away by the results of the two products I was lucky enough to test is an UNDERSTATEMENT!
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic High Potency triple Antioxidant Treatment, R1969
I saw incredible result in skin radiance and texture within 5 days of using this treatment. After two weeks, I realized the slight frown line between my brows was remarkably diminished. Also, there has been a huge reduction in the visibility of my pigmentation. I applied this treatment daily, in the mornings using 4-5 drops that I pressed onto my face and neck. While the texture is a tad oily at first, it absorbed very quickly, leaving my skin with a slight tingle. My bottle lasted about three months. It’s suitable for all skin types and has no fragrance. While it’s costly, it’s worth every cent as it lives up to its claims and you can really see a very visible improvement in a short time. I would buy this and highly recommend it.
SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense Sunscreen SPF50, R554
I used this sunscreen after applying my C E Ferulic High Potency Triple Antioxidant Treatment. Two things stood out for me:
- The wonderfully light, non-oily texture.
- The subtle tint that eliminated any white cast left on the skin – Most sunscreens containing titanium dioxide and zinc oxide leave one on the skin, unfortunately.
Because this formula is made up of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, it contains fewer chemicals than most sunscreens. It’s also paraben free – what a bonus! In addition, it contains plankton extract that reduces heat stress while protecting collagen. Also worth a mention is that the tint works on ALL skin tones because it contains red, black and yellow pigments. At the launch, I even challenged the trainer to apply it to our waitresses skin (she was black) so I could verify this claim for myself. And it didn’t leave even the slightest hint of a white cast. I was well impressed.
You need to give the product a good shake before use to move the spheres and activate the tint. It’s a great everyday option; is suitable for sensitive skins and contains no fragrance. Again, I would happily part with my hard-earned cash to purchase this.
SkinCeuticals is sold in 71 doors throughout South Africa. Go to www.skinceuticals-za.com to find a stockist closest to you and read more about their brilliant range of products.
