Our skin is equipped with protective systems designed to maintain a balance of Antioxidants. However, as these Antioxidants naturally deplete with age, how do we acquire supplementation to maintain optimal skin health?
Our skin is equipped with protective systems designed to maintain a balance of Antioxidants. However, as these Antioxidants naturally deplete with age, how do we acquire supplementation to maintain optimal skin health?
When we think about environmental pollution, a hazy image of thick exhaust fumes comes to mind. However, it's not just this visible contamination that is causing damage to our skin. In fact, most forms of pollution are invisible to the human eye: air, water, soil, thermal, radioactive, noise, and light. And whilst we have all become well versed in safeguarding ourselves from the sun, it's protection from these other environmental pollutants that RATIONALE's Global Head of Education, Katie Matten, is equally passionate about.
"Research has shown that environmental damage is proving to be the new culprit when it comes to premature ageing in our skin," says Katie. "To protect against this type of damage, we need specialised defence." Enter: Antioxidants. Responsible for neutralising the effects of oxidative stress, resulting from exposure to environmental aggressors and the Solar constant, “these bioactive ingredients really are our skin soldiers," Katie says.
The Need for Antioxidants
But before we get too excited about these bioactive superheroes, let's talk about what these 'skin soldiers' are protecting against at a cellular level.
"Free radicals are highly reactive forms of oxygen that damage cells and DNA by stealing electrons from a nearby molecule," explains RATIONALE's Agency Trainer, Keely Marsh. "It's a natural process that happens to all living cells. The damaged cell can release additional free radicals and continue the effect of oxidative stress to surrounding cells."
Free radicals outnumber the naturally occurring Antioxidants in our skin. And although free radicals are produced naturally in the body, lifestyle factors like exposure to pollution, pesticides, and toxic chemicals can accelerate their production.
So, to maintain the balance, a continuous Topical application of neutralising Antioxidants is necessary. Without them, Keely explains that "dehydration, barrier dysfunction, congestion, and inflammatory skin conditions are the symptoms."
Antioxidants in Skincare
"Antioxidant molecules have extra electrons and work by generously supplying electrons to free radicals without turning into electron-scavenging substances themselves," Keely explains. Essentially, they act as a natural ‘off’ switch for free radicals. And while every Antioxidant will perform this primary role, they deliver on many other glowing promises, too.
Finding the Right Antioxidants for You
Harnessing our proprietary Antioxidant Complex, The Vitality Collection simultaneously delivers superlative skin rejuvenation and intensive Skin Identical Antioxidant nourishment.
For those with resilient skin, #2 The Serum sophisticated, concentrated delivery will fortify against the appearance of oxidative stress while cultivating an even tone. More on the sensitive side? #2 The Hydragel provides a physical shield against environmental pollution by forming an ultrafine mesh of ceramic microspheres across the skin.
If you have hyperpigmentation, sensitivity to Vitamin C, or sensitive/sensitised/compromised skin, our supremely light #2 The Light Crème imbues Antioxidant nourishment and protection for glowing hydration. Or, for a targeted weekly Ritual to elevate your daily skincare, #2 The Mask will re-energise skin and elicit a radiant, even tone.
Discover The Vitality Collection
#2 The Serum
Benefits
Hydrates, Visibly brightens, Evens tone,
#2 The Hydragel
Benefits
Hydrates, Visibly firms, Visibly brightens, Evens tone,
#2 The Mask
Benefits
Visibly brightens, Evens tone, Re-energises skin,
#2 The Light Crème
Benefits
Hydrates, Visibly firms, Re-energises skin, Evens tone,