If you’re in the market for a new facial mask or want to try a potent rejuvenating cream, look for natural products containing the following key ingredients.
Antioxidants for Your Face
Both masks and repair creams should contain antioxidants for anti-aging benefits.
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Green Tea
Green tea helps prevent oxidative stress and eliminates free radicals.
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Vitamins
Look for products containing vitamins A, C, and E, all of which protect collagen (the protein in connective tissue that keeps skin firm and youthful). Topical vitamin C not only helps boost collagen production, it also regenerates oxidized vitamin E, so look for these vitamins in combination.
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Pycnogenol
Pycnogenol, taken from the bark of the French Maritime pine tree, contains more antioxidant power than vitamins E and C.
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Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin, a marine-based ingredient harvested from micro algae is “500 times more powerful than vitamin E,” says Linda Miles, LAc, DOM.
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Alpha Lipoic Acid
Alpha lipoic acid, another powerful antioxidant that protects collagen from free radicals, also appears to make other antioxidants work more effectively, says Miles.
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Fruit Extracts
Certain antioxidant fruit extracts—including acai berry, mangosteen, and pomegranate—work to prevent fine lines and firm skin.
Protect Against UV Damage
The sun is enemy number one when it comes to the health and appearance of skin.
Research has shown that in addition to antioxidant-rich topical products, supplementation with certain nutrients can help protect skin from sun damage from the inside out.
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Astaxanthin
Recent research found that natural astaxanthin can prevent UV damage from occurring and can also reverse external signs of aging.
One clinical trial showed significant benefits for middle aged women taking 4 milligrams (mg) of natural astaxanthin per day.
Results included the reduction of wrinkles, the improvement of skin elasticity, and increased moisture levels. Visible signs of UV-aging were reduced within four to six weeks of use.
Another study showed that women taking astaxanthin found improved crow's feet and decreased age spot size.
Natural Skin Soothers
Nature’s restorative plants can work overnight to leave skin feeling soft, smooth, and refreshed by morning.
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Herbal Extracts
Both primrose and borage oils diminish the dryness common to aging skin.
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Fruit Extracts
Cranberry and grape seed oils offer moisturizing effects along with antioxidant protection.
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Calendula Extract
Calendula flower extract works as both an anti-inflammatory and an antioxidant and is good for problem skin.
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Soy Extracts
Products containing soy help keep skin firm and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which naturally decline with age.
Research involving soy extracts indicates that this ingredient decreases skin roughness and minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
