1. Free radicals are are normal byproducts of our metabolism but age our body and damage cell structures, proteins, and DNA. Over time the damage becomes irreversible. Scientists have linked free radicals to cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and aging. Our bodies also produce free radicals when exposed to environmental pollutants like cigarette smoke and radiation, and even stress.
2. Antioxidants donate a positively charged electron and neutralize the free radical before it can cause a damaging chain reaction and any cellular damage in the skin.
3. Visually, the effects of free radicals are most evident on our skin, the body’s largest organ. Sunburn, sun-spots, brown pigmentation and precancerous lesions, for instance.
4. Increasingly, antioxidant-loaded skin-care products offer protection from scavenging free radicals. Look for serums, creams or moisturizers that have: an outer layer (epidermis) barrier repair with ceramides; strong antioxidants including Vitamin A, C, E, goji or acai for the dermis; highly absorbant (how would a consumer know this? what would they look for?). In June, Dr. Douglas Hamilton, an Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology in the School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, launched a new skin-care line called Deep. (www.deepskincare.com)
5. The first two products are Deep Cell Active (DCA) Restructuring Complex and Deep Deliver Enhancer Absorption Powder. Studies found that these products (when used together?) actually reverse the early signs of sun damage on a cellular level, by halting free radicals, stopping water loss and stimulating collagen. DCA is most effective on fine facial lines rather than sagging skin or creases from facial expressions “It doesn’t mean at 60 you’ll look like you did when you’re 20,” says Dr. Hamilton, co-author of Beverly Hills Beauty Secrets. “No product can do that.”
And if you see an advertisement for a cream promising every wrinkle will disappear, don't believe it. “The paintbrush approach is dishonest,” he cautions.
