Protecting Skin from the Environment
Posted on: August 12, 2009
Antioxidants for Skin
Free radicals are unstable molecules that come from the sun, and environmental pollution to attack the healthy cells of our skin causing skin to age and form wrinkles. Antioxidants have the ability to fight and protect our skin from these free radicals. Look for moisturizers that contain antioxidants like Vitamin C, E, and green or white tea. These antioxidants will neutralize free radicals, and protect the skin.SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic contains powerful antioxidants that fight the free radicals and protect your skin from the sun. This is a great product to layer under La Roche Posay Anthelios XL SPF 50+ Creme.
Retinol
I often discuss the importance of using a retinol cream once you reach your 30’s or 40’s. Retinols are a form of vitamin A that promote cell turnover and collagen production. They actually slow down the aging process by reducing fine lines and wrinkles as well as gently resurface the skin so that it looks radiant. My favorites are Retin-A and Renova which are prescription strength creams prescribed by your dermatologist. Drugstores also carry retinol creams that contain gentler, less potent forms of retinol. Olay Pro X line is a good one as well as RoC - both found in drugstores.
Beauty Sleep
The skin repairs itself at night when the body is at rest. So the best time to treat our skin is when the skin isn’t under the stress of free radicals. Use your repairing creams in the evening when your skin is able to reap the full benefits and perhaps undo some of the damage that is unavoidable during the day time.
August 13th, 2009 at 3:01 pm
I heard you talk about oral hyaluronic acid last week and want to try it. I am 36 years old and have extremely dry skin. It’s hard to wear makeup because I have to apply moisturizer during the day to fight of the feeling of facial tightness & visible dryness. I currently use the Obagi skincare. What is the best brand/strength of oral hyaluronic acid to take? I currently take a multi vitamin, vitamin e, and flaxseed oil. Should I also add a fish oil supplement? Thank you - Erika
August 14th, 2009 at 11:42 am
Hi Erika,
You should be able to find the hyaluronic acid at your local health food store or at Whole Foods. I would also recommend that you take borage oil (also can be found at your local health food store), which will hydrate your skin from the inside out. Fish oil is also a great supplement to take for healthy skin and hair. My favorite is one that I order from a company called Cerebrafil, which you can order online at cerebrafil.com. Hope this helps!