Skin Damage By Toxins And Free Radicals

Skin is the largest organ on our body. Also, it is the most exposed to the external environment. This is why our skin is first to show the signs of aging even before the body starts developing aging issues. So obsessed are we with looking youthful, that researchers in the skin care industry continue to develop specialized formulations and skin care products to delay the natural aging process of the skin.

Aging is an irreversible process. However, by knowing the basic causes of aging, we can use certain preventive measures to delay the signs of aging.

Collagen and Elastin

Collagen and Elastin are two components that are responsible for the youthful appearance of the skin. While collagen is responsible for the firmness and tautness of the skin, elastin enables elasticity of the skin, i.e. it allows it to stretch and strain without getting ruptured. However, the collagen and elastin fibers are replenished at a much slower rate than the rate at which they degenerate as we age making the skin loose and saggy.

Damage by Free Radicals

Free radicals are the primary cause of premature aging and the development of aging signs like wrinkles, fine lines, age spots and so on. Free radicals are small dangerous molecules that cause damage to the collagen and elastin fibers and further deteriorate the skin structure. As the skin structure gets damaged, the skin starts showing signs like wrinkles, fine lines, dryness and irritation. Free radicals are formed because of a number of reasons such as:

Prolonged and unprotected exposure to ultraviolet radiations of the sun
Application of harsh chemicals and harmful ingredients on the skin
Exposure to pollution
Accumulation of impurities within the skin pores

Damage by Toxins

In addition to free radicals, toxins are yet another contributing factor of the acceleration of aging process. They are produced by a number of factors such as

Exposure of the skin to sun, harsh chemicals and pollutants
Intake of food that contain additives and preservatives that turn into toxins when consumed by humans
Intake of caffeinated drinks and other beverages

When these toxins enter the body, they get oxidized and further form free radicals.

Fortunately, there are a variety of skin care products available in the market that help to eliminate free radicals and prevent the damage caused by them. Here are some popular product choices.

Obagi Professional C Serum 10 Percent
It is an amazing serum that contains Vitamin C that neutralizes the effect of free radicals and thereby prevents any skin damage. The absolute strength of Vitamin C lends superior protection to your skin and the 10% concentration caters to dry and sensitive skin types.

Obagi C Exfoliating Day Lotion
It is a great day lotion. It exfoliates the skin surface and accelerates the skin cell turnover. In addition it also keeps the skin well hydrated and offers the benefits of 4% hydroquinone as well as potent vitamin C in one single product. The antioxidant activity neutralizes the action of free radicals and prevents them from damaging the skin.

NIA 24 Intensive Recovery Complex
It is a rich cream that moisturizes the skin from within and reboots its natural regenerative powers. It contains ceramides, liposomes and peptides that helps the skin become firm and tight. By locking in multi-level moisture and minimizing TEWL, it makes the skin full and toned. It also contains powerful antioxidants that protect against free radicals and prevents skin damage.