Use Antioxidants to Prevent Acne

One of the best ways to deal with acne is to use antioxidants. They keep the skin supple and glowing, and also prevent the skin from ageing or getting wrinkled. The antioxidants, which are largely present in the epidermal layer of the skin, neutralize the nascent oxygen molecules that are known to play havoc with the skin.

These oxygen molecules, which are also known as free radicals, destroy cells and tissues, weaken muscles, trigger hair fall, and lower immunity levels. They also attack the skin, making it lose its tone and suppleness. The only check for free radicals is antioxidants. The antioxidants neutralize free radicals when they come in contact with them, saving the However, when they come into contact with antioxidants they are completely neutralized.

The body stocks its supply of antioxidants from fresh fruits and vegetables. Fruits like pomegranate, blueberries and grapes are an extremely rich in antioxidants. Besides this, vitamin A (retinol), Vitamin E (tocopherol) and vitamin C (ascorbic acid) also act as strong antioxidants. They strengthen the immune system, which indirectly helps in controlling acne and its related problems. Acne patients can also take man-made antioxidants.

Only 1% of the antioxidants that are taken orally as vitamin tablets or in the form of fruits and vegetables reach the skin. The rest are used for maintaining the internal metabolic functioning of the body. It therefore makes sense to use topical lotions for the skin. Most of them are available over the counter and can protect the skin from free radicals for 4-5 days. They act as a screen keep the skin healthy and young. However, such lotions should be applied regularly if they are to be useful.

If you do not want to use a synthetic product you can make use of natural oxidants themselves. Since most fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, you can use the pulp of any one vegetable or fruit and apply it over your skin. This will tighten and tone up your skin, and also impart it a natural glow. A healthy skin is far more resistant to acne outbreaks than a sick or sagging skin.

Stress and physical or mental exhaustion is known to increase the number of free radicals in the body. It can indirectly affect the skin and cause acne. Hence proper sleep and adequate rest will also help you stay away from acne.