Antioxidants are always top of the list when it comes to talking about skincare and how we can protect our skin, but why?
Free radicals are a by product of oxidation and it’s happening all the time to us, this is fine to an extent; it is when too many are produced that problems arise. In terms of skin, this could be in the form of wrinkles, inflammation and age spots for example. As well as natural bodily processes, we face an onslaught of extra free radicals from things like smoking, environmental pollution, and UV to name but a few. Antioxidants will help to mop all these free radicals up and neutralise them, thus preventing damage. Therefore we like antioxidants a lot. They are found in foods rich in vitamins A, C and E, Zinc, selenium and phytochemicals found in plant foods – basically you need to eat your rainbow of fresh fruit and veg everyday. Choosing good skincare with good antioxidant properties will also help to ward of that free radical damage.
Step in The Organic Pharmacy’s Antioxidant Face Gel and Antioxidant Face Firming Serum. These two skincare products are part of my current skincare regime however I’ve been a fan of both for a long time. I think it is the third or fourth time I’ve been fortunate to have them in my bathroom cabinet. I’ve mentioned them on here before, but felt the need to do it again as I’m currently experiencing their magic!
I’ve had them stashed away waiting for the time when I felt my skin really needed them. They are a real treat, I honestly see a marked difference in the quality and tone of my skin when I use them. In terms of pricing, they’re not cheap. The gel is £54.95 and the serum £75.95 so yes they are a luxury, however they do what they say on the label – for me anyway. This time I haven’t bought mine, I’ve received them for a system many brands do with make-up artists, however I would buy them. They are a duo designed to be used in conjunction with each other, although I’m sure if you just used one you would still see benefits. Both are recommended for all skins.
The Antioxidant Face Gel is your first step after cleansing and toning, it is a light cooling texture, with a citrus smell. It does contain rye alcohol, which perhaps you can detect a bit in the smell. The gel doesn’t dry the skin but does give a slight lifting effect. Key ingredients include aloe, oats, St Johns Wort and calendula – these are all calming and anti-inflammatory to the skin and will help with regeneration. Of course vitamins E and C are in there to fight those free radicals as well as lesser known antioxidants such as DMAE which is a powerful antioxidant found in marine algae. It also contains Alpha Lipoic Acid which is a potent antioxidant on its own but it also helps other ones to work better.
The Antioxidant Face Firming Serum is your second step and this is an oil based product with a lovely rich texture and sweet orange smell. Rosehip oil is the predominant oil, even on its own this is incredible for skin. It is well known for its restorative and anti-ageing properties, as well as being packed full of essential fatty acids and antioxidants. Beta carotene rich carrot oil is also in there which is evident in the serum’s rich golden orange colour. The ingredient list goes on with super antioxidants – some a double dose from the gel. MSM is in both of them, this is an organic sulphur that can help with inflammation and cell regeneration as well as many other skin conditions.
I use them both morning and night. In the morning I mix a drop of the serum into my moisturiser while at night, I use a few drops of the serum straight. I would say I notice a difference in my skin just a few days after using regularly. They would be great to use all the time but also as a skin boost especially now while the seasons are changing.
Has anyone else tried them?
