An antioxidant cream may be used to protect the skin from damage. It may also reduce the effects of stress, smoke, and pollution. Some skin experts believe that direct application of antioxidant cream to the skin might slow down the aging process. Antioxidant cream may also reduce the appearance of wrinkles and shield the skin against damage from the sun and the environment. Some antioxidant creams contain essential oils that are believed to have natural antioxidant properties.
Antioxidant creams can repair damaged skin and respond to the presence of "free radicals." Functions of the body sometimes strip oxygen molecules of their electrons. When this happens, they "steal" electrons from other nearby molecules, creating free radicals. Free radicals may be naturally produced by the body, but an oversupply of them can cause damage to all areas of the body, including the skin. Some experts theorize that stress might cause the body to generate hormones that encourage the production of free radicals.
Other factors that negatively affect the skin are over-exposure to the sun and stress. Environmental factors, such as pollution and cigarette smoke, may also damage the skin and cause it to age prematurely. Antioxidant creams may help bring a youthful appearance back to the skin and repair some of its damage. They might be effective in reducing under-eye puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines. Antioxidant cream may hydrate the skin and make it appear more smooth and healthy-looking, and many use it in the neck area as well as on the face.
Some antioxidant creams contain essential oils like thyme, eucalyptus, and cinnamon. These oils might have natural antioxidant properties. Prepared antioxidant creams containing essential oils may be available for purchase, or a person can also make their own by adding a few drops of an essential oil into their face cream. Vitamin E oil is commonly considered to be a powerful antioxidant.
While antioxidant cream is important, people may also be able to get some of its benefits through food and dietary supplements. Certain foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds are sometimes rich in antioxidants. These foods may not only help reduce the signs of aging, but can also lower the risk of cancer and heart disease. Some people take vitamin supplements containing antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin B2, and cysteine, an amino acid. Certain herbs, such as grape seed, green tea, and turmeric, might also contain valuable antioxidant properties.