We hear about antioxidants everyday and the benefits they provide to your overall health. Additionally, antioxidants get quite a bit of exposure in skin care products. So what are antioxidants and what exactly do they do?

Antioxidants are commonly found in Vitamins A, C, E, and beta carotene. These special chemicals in skin care products assist in skin repair, strengthen blood vessels and protect cells from sun, pollution, wind and other environmental factors known as free radicals.

Although there are many foods available with antioxidants, it is not likely they we consume enough foods that include enough antioxidants. Thus adding antioxidants in our skin care products ensures that we are protecting our skin to the fullest.

Selecting skin care products with antioxidants also aids in the in the production of collagen and elastin. Collagen keeps the skin firm and eleastin adds and maintains elasticity in your skin, thus reducing sagging skin and wrinkles.

Antioxidants are so beneficial to your health and in your skin care products. So if you are in your 20's, antioxidants in your skin care products will protect your skin from free radicals and if you are in your 40's antioxidants can repair damage and protect your skin from further damage. Remember, great looking skin in your 40's starts with a good skin care program in your 20's.

Green tea is probably the most common skin care ingredient because of its antioxidant properties, so I was inclined to post a Green Tea Toner recipe below.

Green Tea Toner
1/2 cup pure spring water or distilled water
2 teaspoons green tea leaves or 1 green tea bag
Bring water to a boil. Pour the water over the leaves or tea bag and steep 2 to 3 minutes. Strain if using tea leaves otherwise just remove tea bag. Keep refrigerated for a refreshing skin toner. After cleansing your face, apply with a cotton ball or pad and do not rinse. Follow with a moisturizer.

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