Just like people get stressed, there are factors in the environment that can stress your skin. This can result in long-term, or even permanent damage, such as premature aging. There are several ways that you can protect your skin against environmental stressors, also known as free radicals.
What are Environmental Stressors?
Environmental stressors can be physical, chemical, or biological and can occur whether you’re spending time indoors or outdoors. There are many factors and locations that create free radicals, yet they have one primary effect on the skin: depleting collagen, a natural protein, and the foundation of youthful skin.
Some of the most common environmental factors that impact the skin are:
- Sun radiation
- Air pollution
- Blue light from digital devices
- Cosmetic products
- Lifestyle (i.e., diet and exercise)
Your exposure to these stressors depends on your environment and lifestyle. You can defend your skin against these factors by adding neutralizing antioxidants and other powerful ingredients to the skin. Your skin needs all the help it can get. Even if you apply sunscreen when you go outside, what do you apply when sitting in front of a computer, TV screen, or cellphone? Bolstering your skincare routine with powerful products can make a significant impact on how threatening factors impact your skin.
Here are the best ways to protect your skin against environmental damage.
Wear Sunscreen Outside
Sun radiation is perhaps the most significant of all environmental stressors. UV rays can easily damage the skin, create signs of aging, and trigger the production of free radicals in the skin. It also stimulates the production of melanin, which can cause hyperpigmentation (skin discoloration) and drastically age the skin prematurely. Sunblock provides much-needed protection, as they contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant chemicals.
Use Vitamin C Serums
With the abundance of serums on the market, which one should you include in your skincare routine?
We recommend using a serum for a specific skin condition you may have (i.e., hyperpigmentation), and a vitamin C serum. Vitamin C serums are so effective because vitamin C is an antioxidant that can fight free radical production that damages skin cells. Vitamin C and SPF are said to be the “power couple” in skincare products, one product bolstering the effects of the other. Together, they can protect the skin barrier and reduce sunburn.
Apply Antioxidants to the Skin
Are free radicals bad when produced in the body? Absolutely! Free radicals can be attributed to common health conditions, such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. It can also lead to looser skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. The good news is antioxidants can prevent free radicals from forming and causing aesthetic and health concerns.
Your skincare products can make all the difference when chosen correctly. Look for skincare products that are abundant with antioxidants, such as the Plant-Based Stem Cell Complex by Routine 10. This formula contains antioxidants such as matcha green tea and orchid stem cells to reduce redness and inflammation caused by environmental free radical damage. While your sunscreen fights signs of aging outdoors, the Plant-Based Stem Cell Complex can fight signs of aging indoors, while you're working on your laptop or relaxing in front of the TV.
Apply these tips to protect your skin against environmental damage and watch your skin prosper.
