The antioxidant is a key part of anti aging treatments. Antioxidants are one of the most effective treatments for the skin. They are vitamins, amino acids and other natural substances that neutralize the damaging effects of free radicals (cell membrane attackers) and help skin cope with the damaging effects of environmental influences. Aging or sun-damaged skin needs antioxidants topically and orally.

Anti Aging Vitamins for the Skin (Vitamins A, Vitamin C and Vitamin E)

Grapeseed Extract - A powerful antioxidant, grapeseed has soothing properties.

Alpha lipoic acid - a natural molecule found in every cell in the body. It is a powerful antioxidant that increases the effect of other antioxidants and cellular metabolism. It is also anti-inflammatory, which reduces redness.

DMAE (dimethylaminoethanol) - An antioxidant that stabilizes cell membranes. It also boosts the effectiveness of other antioxidants. DMAE increases chemicals that control muscles tone, which improves the appearance of sagging skin.

A combination of alpha lipoic acid, vitamin C ester, DMAE, and glycolic acid is one of the most effective formulas to combat premature aging. Be sure topicals have high-tech delivery systems. These are ingredients that carry or deliver the ingredients effectively to the skin.

Antioxidants can help prevent wrinkles, promote skin healing and reduce formation of scar tissue (pre/post surgery). Vitamins A and E (fat-soluble) protect the cell membrane and phospholipid structure. Vitamins C (water-soluble) guards the inside of cells and DNA.

Information in the article is based on Milady's Standard Fundamentals for Estheticians, 9th edition, by Joel Gerson.