Skincare Guide - Oxidative Stress
Oxidative stress – free radicals and skin aging
Oxidative stress occurs when more free radicals are produced in the skin than the body's own antioxidants can neutralize. This reaction damages cells, lipids, and collagen fibers – visible consequences include loss of elasticity, wrinkles, and a dull complexion.
Causes of oxidative stress
Key triggers include UV radiation, air pollution, nicotine, stress, and an unhealthy diet. According to Apotheken Umschau (2025), even everyday sun exposure can significantly increase the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) – even on cloudy days.
What happens in the skin?
Free radicals attack lipids and cell membranes, weakening the skin's protective barrier. haut.de (2024) describes how oxidative stress inhibits collagen synthesis and activates inflammatory processes. In the long term, the skin loses firmness and regenerative capacity.
Antioxidants as antagonists
Antioxidants neutralize free radicals before they can damage cell structures. These include vitamins C and E, polyphenols, coenzyme Q10, and plant extracts such as green tea. According to Eucerin Germany (2025), antioxidants demonstrably support cell repair and protect the skin barrier from oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress & skin aging
Chronic oxidative stress is considered one of the main factors in extrinsic skin aging. It accelerates the breakdown of elastin and hyaluronic acid. The NDR health editorial team (2024) emphasizes that consistent UV protection remains the most important measure against free radicals.
How skincare products can help
Modern skincare combines antioxidants with moisturizing and regenerating active ingredients. NATURFACTOR®'s Bioactive Infusion Complex™ utilizes bioactive plant extracts, amino acids, and hyaluronic acid to reduce oxidative cell damage and strengthen the skin's protective mechanisms.
Prevention in everyday life
- Regular sun protection with SPF 30 or higher
- Antioxidant-rich diet (berries, nuts, green vegetables)
- Abstaining from smoking and getting enough sleep
- Skincare products with stable antioxidants such as vitamin C or niacinamide
Conclusion
Oxidative stress is an invisible but crucial factor in skin aging. Antioxidants act as a natural shield against free radicals. With modern formulations like the Bioactive Infusion Complex™, NATURFACTOR® offers an effective strategy to keep skin vital, even, and youthful in the long term.
Sources
- Apotheken Umschau (2025): Oxidative stress – what is it?
- haut.de (2024): Oxidative stress and skin aging
- Eucerin Germany (2025): Antioxidants – Protection against free radicals
- NDR (2024): How the sun damages the skin – wrinkles and skin aging
Tags: oxidative stress, free radicals, antioxidants, bioactive infusion complex, skin aging, UV protection