What Are Free Radicals?

What Are Free Radicals?

Free radicals are a type of oxidant. They  are unstable molecules with unpaired electrons that are constantly in search of a ‘spare’ to complete themselves, which they can steal from our healthy cells. Although they are produced naturally in the body, they are also triggered by environmental aggressors such as pollution, cigarette smoke and UV rays — which damage skin cells and lead to accelerated ageing, laxity and wrinkles. This is known as oxidative stress.

It’s important to note that a base level of oxidation is a normal part of our metabolism, and the skin’s natural antioxidant reserves work to keep the balance between oxidants and antioxidants. However, it is when the number of oxidants outweighs the skin’s natural defence system that oxidative stress occurs.

Fighting free radicals is clearly a preventative skincare must, so a good antioxidant is a routine staple to ‘donate’ an electron before they have a chance to steal one from your healthy cells. 

What Are Antioxidants?

Antioxidants are powerful compounds that help protect the skin from the damage caused by free radicals. In skincare, antioxidants act like shields, neutralising these harmful molecules before they can break down collagen, trigger premature ageing, or cause inflammation. Common antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and green tea extract not only defend the skin but also brighten, soothe, and promote a healthier, more radiant complexion. Incorporating antioxidant-rich products into your routine can help maintain youthful, resilient skin while supporting its natural repair processes.

How Do Antioxidants Work?

Antioxidants give up one of their own electrons to stabilise the free radical, preventing it from stealing the electron from molecules within your cells and damaging them. This helps to boost the skin’s natural defences and restores the balance between oxidants and antioxidants to help prevent oxidative stress. 

However, in the process of neutralising a free radical, the antioxidant is now left with an unpaired electron, meaning it has now itself become a free radical (albeit a weak one). This is an ongoing process, and is why  it’s always best for products to contain blends of different antioxidants, to help  prevent this chain reaction.

Antioxidant Ingredients to Look out for:

When it comes to antioxidants, most people immediately think of vitamin C, also known by its chemical name ascorbic acid. Its excellent reputation is well-deserved; renowned for boosting radiance, enhancing collagen production, and shielding against UV damage – it is a leading antioxidant used in skincare. However, there are several other widely used vitamin C derivatives; compounds that the body can then convert into active vitamin C.

1. Vitamin E: Naturally present in the skin, vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from oxidative stress.  Because it is fat-soluble, it can blend into the skin’s natural oils and lipid barrier which protects cell membranes from free radical damage and supports a stronger, healthier skin barrier. Vitamin E is frequently paired with vitamin C in skincare formulations as the two antioxidants work synergistically to enhance each other’s effectiveness and boost overall skin radiance.
2. Green tea: Green tea works as an antioxidant thanks to its high concentration of compounds called polyphenols, particularly catechins like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). These molecules neutralise free radicals before they can damage skin cells, helping to prevent collagen breakdown and premature ageing. What makes green tea a little different from antioxidants like vitamin C or vitamin E is that it doesn’t just neutralise free radicals — it also helps calm the chain reaction of inflammation that oxidative stress can trigger. Its polyphenols can reduce inflammatory signalling in the skin and may even help limit some of the oxidative damage caused by UV exposure. Because green tea is antioxidant and anti-inflammatory at the same time, it is particularly helpful for sensitive, reactive, or acne-prone skin.
3.  Resveratrol: Found in grapes and red wine, this has anti-ageing properties. It helps to maintain skin elasticity and prevent collagen breakdown. It’s particularly valued for its anti-inflammatory and skin-firming benefits.
4. Ferulic Acid: Ferulic acid is a potent plant antioxidant that boosts the stability and effectiveness of other antioxidants, especially vitamins C and E. Beyond neutralising free radicals, it enhances photoprotection, helping skin better defend itself against sun-induced damage.When combined with vitamins C and E, this boosts their stability and efficacy to become a triple threat against free radicals.
5. Acetyl Zingerone: This is a next-generation antioxidant derived from ginger that helps to reduce the signs of photoageing and improve the skin's defences. It’s known for targeting pollution and UV-induced damage while supporting a smoother, more even-looking complexion.
6. Coenzyme Q10: Coenzyme Q10 is a naturally occurring antioxidant found in skin cells that plays a key role in cellular energy production. As levels decline with age, topical CoQ10 helps defend against oxidative stress while supporting firmer, more resilient skin.

Using serums which combine multiple antioxidants maximises skin’s defences.By blending antioxidant ingredients together, they create a powerful cocktail that works to tackle multiple skin concerns simultaneously.

When and Where Should You Use an Antioxidant in Your Routine?

Antioxidants can be used every day, morning and/or evening. You may wish to use your antioxidant product in the morning, as your skin will benefit from the protection during the day (when paired with sun protection) since this is when you are exposed to the most aggressors. However, antioxidants have also been shown to be particularly beneficial when used at night, where they can aid the skin repair process. 

If you enjoy using exfoliating acids, use them in the PM or on alternate mornings. It is possible to use both in the AM but only if you build up usage and your skin doesn't feel irritated. In this case use the acid first, then the vitamin C. If you are new to vitamin C, please remember to patch test before use and add to your routine slowly, before gradually building up to 3+ days per week.

Whilst antioxidants will not offer UV protection themselves (and are never  a replacement for sun protection), it’s important to note that your skin is still susceptible to oxidative stress from various environmental factors. So, using an antioxidant alongside your SPF will come at UV protection from another angle.

Ultimately, it is whatever works best for you and fits in with the rest of your routine.

What Age Should You Start Using an Antioxidant?

Antioxidants aren’t essential during your teenage years. In your teens, your skin is naturally at its strongest and most resilient. Collagen production is high, cell turnover is efficient, and your body’s own antioxidant systems are working at peak levels, meaning your skin is already well-equipped to handle everyday oxidative stress.

They are therefore often unnecessary unless you’re dealing with high sun exposure, pollution, acne-related inflammation, or specific skin concerns. For most teenagers, consistent sunscreen and a simple routine are far more important.

However, once you hit your 20s, your skin’s natural repair systems gradually begin to slow down. Collagen production starts to decline (by about 1% per year after your mid-20s), and your internal antioxidant levels begin to decrease, making skin more vulnerable to oxidative stress.

At the same time, cumulative exposure to UV radiation, pollution, stress, and lifestyle factors starts to show. Antioxidants become more useful at this stage because they help neutralise the free radicals generated by these exposures, supporting collagen preservation, reducing inflammation, and helping to delay visible signs of ageing.

Consider experimenting with different serums to find an antioxidant which suits your skin.

• 20s – mid 30s: This is the optimum age for introducing an antioxidant serum into your routine. Using it 2-3 times a week is sufficient,
• Late 30s - early 40s: These are the core years when an antioxidant is most important. This is the time to invest in high-quality products to achieve the most effective results.
• 40s onwards: In addition to your antioxidant, you may wish to include products in your routine which address skin concerns like dullness, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines and wrinkles.

Words by Charlie De Cesare - Team Skin Rocks