What is oxidative stress?
Oxidative stress results from the excessive production of free radicals in the body. These unstable molecules are missing an electron and seek to stabilize themselves by attacking cells, proteins and DNA, which can cause damage. Sources of free radicals include external factors like pollution, UV rays, smoking, poor diet, and even emotional stress.
In the skin, free radicals primarily form in response to sun exposure. They damage skin cells, accelerate skin aging, and can cause wrinkles, pigmentation spots, and a loss of firmness. Furthermore, oxidative stress is involved in skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.
The effects of oxidative stress on the skin
Oxidative stress has multiple harmful effects on the skin. The main damages include:
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Premature aging: the accumulation of free radicals leads to a degradation of collagen and elastin, essential proteins for the structure of the skin. This results in a loss of firmness, the appearance of wrinkles, and skin sagging;
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Pigment spots: the oxidation of pigment cells in the skin can cause irregularities in pigmentation, such as brown spots or sun spots, particularly visible in young people. people with fair skin;
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Inflammations: oxidative stress can activate inflammatory processes in the skin, contributing to the development of conditions such as acne, eczema, and rosacea. This chronic inflammation can make the skin more sensitive and vulnerable to external aggressions;
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A weakening of the skin barrier: free radicals affect the function of the skin barrier, a protective layer that prevents dehydration and protects the skin from external agents. A weakening of this barrier promotes the penetration of toxins and bacteria.
How to protect your skin against oxidative stress?
Key #1: adopt a diet rich in antioxidants
Antioxidants neutralize free radicals by providing them with the missing electron, making them stable and harmless.
One of the most effective ways to combat oxidative stress is to nourish the skin from the inside out by consuming foods rich in antioxidants. These molecules, like vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids and zinc, help neutralize free radicals and repair cellular damage:
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Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin against free radicals generated by UV rays. It is found in citrus fruits, kiwis, strawberries, peppers and spinach;
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Vitamin E plays a key role in protecting cell membranes against oxidation. It is present in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and avocados;
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Carotenoids (such as beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A) are found in orange and green vegetables, such as carrots, sweet potatoes and spinach. They help repair damage caused by UV rays;
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Zinc is an essential mineral that supports skin repair and reduction of inflammation. It is present in oysters, pumpkin seeds, nuts and legumes.
In addition to these nutrients, drinking enough water is essential to maintain skin hydration and strengthen its ability to defend itself against external aggressions.
Key #2: use cosmetic products rich in antioxidants
Many skin care products are formulated with antioxidants to help protect and repair the epidermis. These cosmetics can be applied directly to the skin and provide additional protection against free radicals:
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Vitamin C : it helps to brighten the complexion and reduce the appearance of dark spots. It also stimulates collagen production and provides protection against damage caused by free radicals;
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Polyphenols: these plant compounds, found in extracts of green tea, grapes, or pomegranate, are powerful antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals and soothe the skin. The icing on the cake is that polyphenols enhance the effects of vitamin C;
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Coenzyme Q10: this compound helps reduce the signs of aging by neutralizing free radicals and stimulating energy production in skin cells;
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Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): it has numerous benefits. Although it is primarily known for its soothing effects and brightening properties, it also has antioxidant properties. Niacinamide helps to reduce inflammation, protect the skin from environmental damage, and improve its elasticity. It is often used to diminish pigmentation spots and skin tone irregularities;
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Asiaticoside and madecassoside: these two main active ingredients are classified as antioxidants and so-called skin maintenance agents by the INCI ( International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients). They help the skin tissue to combat degenerative processes (DNA oxidation), and to regenerate and rebuild its different components;
- Ferulic acid: this antioxidant of plant origin reinforces the effects of other antioxidants (such as vitamin C and vitamin E) and protects the skin from external aggressions.
Key n°3: perfectly protect your skin from UV rays
Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun are one of the main causes of oxidative stress in the skin. They generate a large quantity of free radicals, which accelerate skin aging and promote the appearance of skin cancer. To protect your skin barrier, it is essential to:
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Wear protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, to limit direct exposure to the sun, especially during peak hours (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.);
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Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (against UVA and UVB rays) with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, and reapply every two hours or after swimming;
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Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and seek shade when possible, especially on sunny days.
Key #4: Reduce Environmental Stressors
The smoking, the pollution of the air and aggressive chemicals can increase the production of free radicals in the skin. To limit their impact, it is advised to:
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Avoid smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke, as tobacco releases free radicals that damage skin cells, reduce elasticity, and make the complexion dull ;
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Reduce exposure to pollution by thoroughly cleansing your skin in the evening to remove impurities accumulated during the day. The Grangettes purifying face gel supports you morning and night in your routine!
- Regular price
- 41,35 €
- Regular price
- Sale price
- 41,35 €
- Unit price
- per
Key #5: manage stress and adopt a healthy lifestyle
Emotional stress is another factor that promotes the production of free radicals. It can also affect skin quality by disrupting sleep cycles and increasing inflammation. To better manage stress and prevent its effects on the skin:
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Practice meditation, yoga or deep breathing to promote a state of relaxation;
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Get enough sleep: quality sleep helps regenerate skin cells and maintain optimal immune function;
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Exercise regularly to stimulate blood circulation and strengthen the skin against external aggressions.
Grangettes and anti-oxidants
At Grangettes Switzerland, anti-oxidants find pride of place in many products in the range.
In the anti-aging cream, it is the vitamin C, niacinamide, asiaticoside, and madecassoside that will protect your skin from free radicals.
- Regular price
- 42,50 €
- Regular price
- Sale price
- 42,50 €
- Unit price
- per
To strengthen and protect your skin barrier, you can also rely on the serum and lifting gel, enriched with vitamin C, as well as asiaticoside and madecassoside.
- Regular price
- 85,00 €
- Regular price
- Sale price
- 85,00 €
- Unit price
- per
Green tea extract, for its part, is used in the makeup remover lotion, for its toning properties. Finally, you can enjoy the many benefits of niacinamide in the eye contour gel.
- Regular price
- 33,30 €
- Regular price
- Sale price
- 33,30 €
- Unit price
- per
- Regular price
- 40,20 €
- Regular price
- Sale price
- 40,20 €
- Unit price
- per
