The most powerful antioxidants in cosmetics

Antioxidants are active ingredients that neutralise the harmful effects of free radicals, thereby protecting the skin from premature ageing. Their presence in cosmetics forms the foundation of effective skincare. The formulas developed by HDRÈY are based on exceptionally powerful antioxidants – vitamin C and astaxanthin. What is worth knowing about them?

Every day, the skin has to contend with the damaging effects of external factors, but its condition is also influenced by processes within the body. Among the most significant of these is the harmful effect of free radicals – oxygen molecules whose reactivity causes the degradation of the body’s cells, including those of the skin.

How do free radicals damage the skin?

The consequences of oxygen free radicals can be seen with the naked eye. These include:

• photoageing – an accelerated ageing process caused by UV radiation,

• the formation of wrinkles and loss of firmness – free radicals degrade collagen and elastin, leading to sagging skin,

• discolouration and uneven skin tone – the action of free radicals disrupts the natural production of melanin, resulting in the appearance of spots.

Antioxidants counteract all these phenomena and many other problems. No wonder, then, that they have made a name for themselves in advanced, innovative cosmetology.

What are antioxidants?

Antioxidants are chemical compounds that inhibit the action of free radicals. They act at various stages: they can block the formation of new free radicals, neutralise those already present in the body, repair damaged cellular structures and support the production of antioxidant enzymes. Antioxidants are divided into exogenous ones, which we obtain from external sources, e.g. through diet or cosmetic products, and endogenous ones, which the body produces itself. In cosmetics, exogenous antioxidants play a key role in protecting the skin against oxidative stress and delaying the ageing process.

How do antioxidants work?

Thanks to antioxidants, the skin is better able to cope with challenges such as:

1. oxidative stress, caused by environmental factors – UV radiation and pollution,

2. inflammatory processes, which can lead to irritation and the formation of blemishes,

3. loss of firmness, by supporting the natural production of collagen and elastin.

The most powerful antioxidants in cosmetics with strong antioxidant properties

An exceptionally intense action that protects the skin and even restores its lost qualities is a feature of two powerful active ingredients.

The first of these is astaxanthin – a natural carotenoid, the most famous and effective antioxidant in modern cosmetology. Astaxanthin:

• neutralises free radicals, which effectively slows down the skin’s ageing processes,

• protects against UV radiation, thereby minimising the effects of photoageing,

• improves skin firmness by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin.

The second extremely powerful antioxidant is vitamin C. In HDRÈY’s advanced cosmetics, it is present in the form of a complex of three forms, thanks to which it acts in multiple ways:

• brightens the skin and evens out its tone, eliminating discolouration. Additionally, it lightens discolouration thanks to its ability to inhibit tyrosinase activity,
• stimulates collagen synthesis, improving skin structure,
• protects against oxidative stress, strengthening the body’s natural protective barrier.

Skincare products with antioxidants – how should they be used?

To help you make the most of the invaluable benefits of antioxidants, HDRÈY has developed the C-Shock range. It includes skincare products containing astaxanthin and vitamin C in three different forms.

1. Antioxidant ampoules

C-Shock Ampoule with astaxanthin and vitamin C is the perfect solution for tired skin exposed to harmful external factors. The ampoules intensively regenerate the skin, improving its condition after just a few days of use, whilst also protecting it from further damage.

2. Antioxidant cream

C-Shock Antioxidant Vitamin C All Day Cream, containing vitamin C, vitamin E and astaxanthin, is a highly effective anti-ageing prevention formula. Used regularly, the cream provides daily protection for the skin and helps maintain its healthy appearance and even tone.

3. Antioxidant mask

The C-Shock Antioxidant Vitamin C Mask provides intensive care for skin in need of regeneration, particularly during beauty treatments. The mask promotes cell renewal and restores the skin’s radiance.

How can you incorporate antioxidants into your skincare routine?

To effectively harness the power of antioxidants, which help slow down the ageing process, it is worth following a few guidelines in your daily skincare routine. One of the most important is to use antioxidant-rich products in the morning. Applying a cream provides the skin with protection against environmental factors throughout the day.

The second important step is the regular use of ampoules. Their concentrated action strengthens the skin’s natural defences. The third tip concerns combining antioxidants with SPF filters – for full protection against photoageing and oxidative stress.