Published on: 12/8/2017IST

Anjali Bhatia Last updated on: 1/2/2018, Permalink

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We all know the daily grind can get crazy, right? There’s work, errands, and your bustling social life. And then on top of that, you’re supposed to think about skincare? We’re here to help you out.

Let’s face it – a solid skincare regime can make a huge difference. Our skin is vulnerable to so many everyday occurrences, especially photo damage from the sun. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can jumpstart harmful, and visible, reactions from free radicals. These pesky molecules cause oxidative stress, creating the perfect environment for wrinkles, sun spots, and skin cancer.

Fortunately, you can defend yourself by wearing sunblock, avoiding smoking, and fueling up on foods that are rich in antioxidants, like berries and tomatoes. You can also include antioxidant skincare products in your daily routine for an extra line of defense.

1. Vitamin C

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a popular immune booster. It’s also a powerful antioxidant.

Even skin, your largest organ, needs it. This nutrient is in charge of synthesizing collagen, the main structural protein of skin tissue.It also supports proper wound healing, so it can help out with those lingering acne scars.

Vitamin C is at the forefront of skincare. Vitamin C can help reduce the risk of potential sun-damage as well as help lessen the oxidative stress and immunosuppressive effects caused by UV exposure. It can even help soothe common sunburn symptoms, such as redness and rashes. These benefits can help put your worries about wrinkles and fine lines out of mind.

Compared to oral supplements, topical application takes the cake, as it crosses right through the top layer of skin called the epidermis. Topical application is an awesome, direct way of soaking up vitamin C’s goodness.

2. Lemon

A splash of lemon can spruce up tea or water. But what if it could work some magic on your skin, too? This sour citrus fruit is packed with polyphenols, or plant chemicals, called flavonoids or bioflavonoids.

When applied topically, bioflavonoids can boast powerful anti-oxidative properties.

The main flavonoids in lemon are diosmin, hesperidin, and eriocitrin. According to the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology, diosmin can block photoaging in the skin. Hesperidin protects against UVB-induced damage, while eriocitrin is a potent antioxidant.Together, these natural compounds combat free radicals. Talk about teamwork.

It might be tempting to dive head first into lemon juice. Hold that thought, though. Lemon is a strong acid that can bother your skin. And once the sun hits, the risk for irritation intensifies. Play it safe by using products that feature lemon as an ingredient. This way, the concentration will be gentler – and safer – for your skin.

3. White Tea

White tea is more than just a restorative drink. It’s also full of those beneficial polyphenols, meaning white tea extracts can work wonders on the skin.

Experimental Dermatology shares that these extracts have antioxidant properties. They work by preventing oxidative stress caused by solar radiation. Using products with white tea as part of your skin care routine can help slow skin damage cause by environmental factors.

Again, it’s all thanks to polyphenols, which are abundant in tea. Brew yourself a cup and sip away. At the same time, look for skincare products that use white tea ingredients. This double-duty protection will be a treat for your skin.

You can even use white tea as a toner. Steep two white tea bags in one cup of hot water. Once it cools down, apply it to your skin with a cotton ball. So fresh, so clean.