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 We demand of antioxidants. And the more the better. In everything from moisturizers, finishing with a glass of juice, we crave antioxidants, along with the promise of good health, reducing wrinkles and radiant skin. But just you know what antioxidants are and, more importantly, how do they work?
What are antioxidants?
The shortest answer is antioxidants - substances that can protect skin and body from the harmful effects of the environment, pesticides, radiation and cigarette smoke, nicotine and exposure to large amounts of alcohol. There are a large number of antioxidants, some of which are widely known, including vitamins C, E, A, beta-carotene, lycopene and coenzyme Q10.
How antioxidants work: a simplified scientific explanation
Antioxidants protect cells from damage by neutralizing the unstable atoms in molecules known as radicals. If you remember high school chemistry course - all the cells of our bodies are made up of molecules. If further on, each molecule consists of atoms which are chemically bonded together. Every atom, if you remember, consists of a core, which is surrounded by a cloud of electrons. When all the electrons are present, the atom is considered to be stable.
Sometimes, however, the atom would lose one of its electrons, becoming reactive, or "charged." Since electrons have a strong tendency to exist in pairs, they are re-charged atoms known as free radicals seeking to "steal" one electron, making the atom unstable. If free radicals are succeeding in the "theft" of the atom also it turns into a free radical due to the fact that he had lost one of the electrons needed to support stability.
This process can produce a chain, resulting in an instantaneous propagation of free radicals. The final effect of this chain reaction - a significant cellular damage to the body in the form of wrinkles, age spots and freckles. In the most extreme form it can cause a variety of debilitating diseases such as cancer.
So how do you prevent these injuries?
It was then, and come to the aid of our hero - an antioxidant. Antioxidants absorb free radicals by neutralizing their electricity and preventing the attack "stealing" electrons from a potential sacrificial atoms. The result - complete prevention or at least reduction of damage caused by free radicals.
Back to the real world: whether working antioxidants in cosmetics?
According to the FDA, there are a large number of naturally occurring antioxidants that help minimize the effects of free radicals on the organism. In addition, the shelves of drugstores and cosmetic counters centers are filled with products that promise almost miraculous results because of forming part of an antioxidant. But do these products work, fighting wrinkles and skin damage caused by free radicals? There exists a huge number of factors that determine the effectiveness of cosmetic products containing antioxidants. Active components must be sustainable, delivering the therapeutic effect of the skin and, in addition, they have to stay in it for a long time, providing biochemical effects. Only under these conditions, one can expect positive results.
What about antioxidants consumed in foods?
While as many cosmetic products can advertise impressive list of antioxidants, the best way to ensure that your body gets its optimum quantity - is the maintenance of a healthy diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables.
In addition, a rich source of antioxidants may make various additives. However, not all of them have a positive impact, and prior to use of a drug you should consult with your doctor.
Also, many doctors warn that "there is no evidence that antioxidants in pill form can improve your overall health and extend your life ... but there is nothing harmful in the absorption naipolezneyshih antioxidant products: fruits and vegetables.
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