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Skin Care Guide - Free Radicals

Free radicals – effect on the skin & protection through antioxidants

What are free radicals?

Free radicals are reactive oxygen species (ROS) that are particularly unstable due to an excess of unpaired electrons. They arise both within the body itself—for example, through metabolic processes—and from external influences such as UV radiation, environmental pollution, or smoking. To achieve stability, free radicals attack other molecules, triggering chain reactions that can damage cells and tissue 1 .

Oxidative stress – when free radicals predominate

The body has its own protective systems, called antioxidants (e.g., vitamin C, vitamin E, and enzymes like superoxide dismutase). However, if the balance between free radicals and antioxidants becomes unbalanced, it is referred to as oxidative stress . This process is closely linked to skin aging and various diseases 2 .

How do free radicals affect the skin?

Free radicals directly affect skin cells and accelerate the aging process. The most important consequences include:

  • Collagen degradation: Radicals destroy structural proteins that provide strength.
  • Loss of elasticity: Elastin fibers are damaged, the skin becomes looser.
  • Hyperpigmentation: Oxidative stress can stimulate melanocytes, which promotes pigmentation.
  • Inflammation: Radicals activate inflammatory signaling pathways that increase skin irritation.
  • Premature wrinkle formation: Due to the combination of collagen degradation and dry skin surface 3 .

External factors that promote free radicals

In addition to natural metabolism, environmental factors are primarily responsible for the overproduction of free radicals:

  • UV radiation: Sunlight is the most potent external trigger of oxidative stress.
  • Air pollution: Fine dust particles promote the formation of reactive oxygen compounds.
  • Smoking: Tobacco smoke contains a variety of free radicals.
  • Unhealthy diet: Highly processed foods and sugar increase oxidative stress.
  • Stress: Psychological stress influences biochemical processes and increases radical formation 4 .

Antioxidants as a protective shield

Antioxidants neutralize free radicals by donating electrons, thus stopping chain reactions. The most important antioxidants used in skin care include:

  • Vitamin C: Protects against UV-induced damage, stimulates collagen synthesis.
  • Vitamin E: Lipid-soluble, protects cell membranes from oxidation.
  • Niacinamide: Strengthens the skin barrier and has anti-inflammatory effects.
  • Polyphenols: Plant substances such as resveratrol or green tea extracts have strong antioxidant effects.
  • Coenzyme Q10: Supports energy production in cells and protects against oxidative stress 5 .

Scientific findings

Clinical studies demonstrate that topical antioxidants can significantly improve the appearance of the skin. They reduce wrinkles and dark spots, and protect against DNA damage caused by UV radiation. Combinations such as vitamin C + vitamin E or vitamin C + ferulic acid show particularly strong effects 6 .

Prevention through lifestyle

In addition to cosmetic products, everyday life also plays a role:

  • Consistent sun protection (SPF 30–50)
  • Antioxidant-rich diet (berries, vegetables, nuts, green tea)
  • Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol
  • Regular sleep and stress reduction

Conclusion

Free radicals are among the main drivers of skin aging. They are caused by internal processes and external factors such as UV radiation or environmental pollution. Antioxidants—whether in the form of skincare or nutrition—act as a protective shield, protecting the skin from damage. Modern luxury skincare like that from NATURFACTOR combines antioxidant active ingredients with scientifically proven formulations for long-term skin health.

Sources

  1. Cleveland Clinic – What are free radicals? https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22990-free-radicals
  2. Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology – Oxidative stress and disease. https://www.nature.com/articles/nrm.2017.90
  3. DermNet NZ – Aging and oxidative stress. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/skin-aging
  4. NHS – How to reduce risk factors for skin aging. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/skin-care-and-ageing/
  5. PubMed – Antioxidants and skin protection. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24442029/
  6. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology - Topical antioxidants in dermatology. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17939995/
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