If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process. We updated this article in December to add more expert commentary and information about each featured product, plus three new picks from Mary Kay, Olay and SkinCeuticals based on extensive testing done by the Good Housekeeping Institute.

You may have heard of antioxidants in your food — but they're also a key part of an effective skincare routine for any skin type. Antioxidants, like vitamin C and resveratrol , play a crucial role in just how healthy, radiant and youthful your face looks both now and over time.

That's where antioxidants, both in the form of ingested nutrients and in topical skincare products like face serums , come in. Applying skincare made with antioxidants an help neutralize the damaging effects of free radicals, says Dendy Engelman, M. In the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab, our scientists have a long history of testing face serums, including antioxidant and anti-aging serums , using scientific instruments to measure changes in skin over the time period of product use.

Consumer testers also evaluate formulas on factors like the appearance of their skin before and after use, plus the product's ease of use and cosmetic attributes. This data is then collated to find the best serums, including those with antioxidant properties.

Not all antioxidant serums are created equal — some have bonus benefits like wrinkle smoothing, brightening, calming and more, depending on your skin type and needs. Here, read all about the best antioxidant serums you can buy and their benefits, including GH Beauty Lab top-tested formulas and Good Housekeeping Seal star picks, plus more on the top ingredients to look for.

Formulated with two types of antioxidant vitamin C plus vitamin E , Mary Kay's powerhouse serum, backed by the Good Housekeeping Seal, delivers a laundry list of anti-aging skincare effects. Note that high percentages of vitamin C have the potential to irritate sensitive skin types.

One drawback: Some users aren't fans of the strong scent. The liquid simultaneously protects skin, reduces excess oil and improves signs of aging like lines. A caveat: a few users commented that it the formula felt sticky. Made with antioxidant vitamins C and E plus hydrating hyaluronic acid , Eau Thermale Avène's gentle serum is a GH Beauty Lab favorite.

Some users commented on the "off-putting" aroma and that it was too harsh on their skin. Get glowing, more even-toned skin with GH Seal star Olay's antioxidant serum packed with powerhouse ingredients like vitamin C, peptides, niacinamide and lactic acid.

GH Beauty Lab data evaluation confirmed that the formula significantly improves skin brightness and dark spots starting at two weeks of twice daily use, per a study on women.

Note that some users reported breakouts after application, so it may not be best for those with acne-prone skin. Protect skin and tackle mature skin concerns at the same time with Mary Kay's booster serum backed by the Good Housekeeping Seal that's blended with antioxidants vitamin C and resveratrol.

GH Beauty Lab data analysis confirmed that the vitamin C in the formula c an help increase collagen and elastin production to keep skin looking more youthful and its peptides can improve the appearance of fine lines.

Though the serum contains a smaller amount of product than most, clinical data showed that is not pore-clogging and didn't cause irritation. A GH Beauty Lab anti-aging serum test winner, No7 is packed with antioxidants vitamin C and E and retinol , plus smoothing peptides and softening hyaluronic acid.

Note that retinol can cause irritation, especially for sensitive skin. The formula was tops for improving skin's texture, firmness, pores and dark spots. Another reported: "My skin looks younger. A combination of antioxidants niacinamide and vitamin C, Olay's GH Seal star serum is formulated to tackle dark spots.

A 10 week study of women with hyperpigmentation spots found significant improvement in skin tone and hyperpigmentation after applying the formula twice daily, GH Beauty Lab data evaluation confirmed. A few users commented that they didn't like the serum's "watery" texture.

A small number of testers commented that "was a little drying" and though the serum is more expensive, it also includes nearly twice as much product as most others. Ren Clean Skincare's calming serum is based on naturally-derived botanical extracts and oils, along with antioxidant vitamin E.

In addition, "this contains beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals," Wizemann explains. While some users praised the dropper applicator, others found it tricky to use.

To determine the best serums, including those with antioxidants, GH Beauty Lab scientists first label-mask the products to eliminate bias, then distribute them to dozens of consumer testers, who use the formulas in their daily routines over a set time period between four and twelve weeks.

In the Lab, analysts use the Visia Complexion Analyzer device to track changes in skin during the product's use, including hyperpigmentation, lines and wrinkles, and pores. When applicable, the Cutometer machine above , which gauges skin laxity, is used to measure changes in firmness.

Testers also report their feedback on skin's look and feel during and after use, perceived changes in skin, and product attributes such as ease of use, scent, texture and absorption.

Hundreds of data points are then tallied to find the best serums to target specific skincare issues. Although many ingredients are touted for their antioxidant effects, these are the most proven effective actives to seek out in face serums, according to Dr.

It's the gold standard of antioxidants and is best for combination or dry skin, but steer clear if you're oily or acne-prone, says Dr. Mariwalla, since "vitamin C does make some people break out. It's generally well-tolerated by combination, dry and sensitive skin types , and is also great for acne-prone or oily skin as well.

It's great for combination, dry or sensitive skin. Mariwalla recommends sticking with retinol if you're acne- or oil-prone. Antioxidant serums protect skin from damaging free radicals, helping prevent and repair signs of aging.

As these accumulate, the body is affected in the form of illness and accelerated aging. Like skin superheroes, antioxidants bind to free radicals and donate their electrons, stopping free radicals from stealing electrons from skin cells and causing damage.

Over time, reduced free radical damage means less lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and inflammation, which can lead to smoother and brighter skin. Everyone's skin is constantly exposed to free radicals, so an antioxidant serum can be beneficial at nearly any age , starting in the 20s.

To incorporate an antioxidant serum into your skincare routine, apply it as your first step after washing your face in the morning, evening or both, "that way it [sits] directly on your skin," Dr. Mariwalla advises. If you choose to use your serum once daily, opt for the morning, since during the day skin is more exposed to environmental factors like UV light that can cause free radical damage.

Note that antioxidant serums should be used in addition to a broad-spectrum face sunscreen , not in place of one. April Franzino , the Beauty Director at Good Housekeeping, has over 15 years of experience researching, writing and editing skincare-related content, utilizing the expertise of GH Beauty Lab scientists and top industry professionals such as dermatologists and aestheticians.

For this piece, she reported on the research behind, testing protocols for and results of the GH Beauty Lab's testing of serums containing antioxidants. Franzino also interviewed dermatologist experts for insights into antioxidant serums as a category. She has over 15 years of experience under her belt, starting her career as an assistant beauty editor at GH in , and working in the beauty departments of SELF and Fitness magazines.

Therefore, topical vitamin C products may be a good option. The review notes that the topical application of vitamin C may have anti-aging and anti-pigmentation properties and protect from the effects of the sun. Additionally, vitamin C replenishes vitamin E levels.

The AAD recommends that people should take time to identify their skin type before choosing skin care products. If a person understands their skin type, it can help them find a suitable skin care routine and choose the right products.

The AAD also advises wearing sunscreen daily with an SPF of 30 or higher on all skin not covered by clothing. To save time, a person may wish to choose a moisturizer containing SPF. Retinoids are vitamin A-based products and include retinol.

Retinol is a popular ingredient in skin care products and may improve uneven skin tone, pigmentation, and texture. The AAD advises that products containing retinoids are a good option for people with mild acne or fine lines and wrinkles.

However, the AAD recommends that people with skin allergies or dryness avoid retinoids. Additionally, pregnant people must not use retinoid products, and those with hormonal acne should consult a dermatologist first. People who use retinoid products must use sunscreen, as they make the skin more sensitive to sun damage.

Find 15 of the best retinol creams for all skin types here. A study states that antioxidants may be valuable in skin care, both topically and orally.

However, the author advises against using large doses for prolonged periods without seeking medical advice, as this may cause adverse effects. The review also notes that despite many antioxidant skin care products being available, evidence varies regarding their impact on skin cells.

Antioxidants are present in a wide range of foods. The best food sources of antioxidants include :. Find a guide to antioxidant foods here. If someone has concerns about their skin health, they should speak with a doctor or dermatologist.

Supplements contain antioxidants that may interact with medications doctors prescribe, so it is always best to check first before taking them. Evidence suggests a connection between oxidative stress and conditions, such as acne and seborrheic dermatitis.

However, no studies demonstrate the impact of antioxidants on these conditions. Antioxidants work together in a complex manner. The most abundant antioxidant in the skin is vitamin C.

Retinoids may be potent for people with certain skin conditions, such as acne. The skin contains antioxidants, and the most abundant one is vitamin C.

Antioxidants help protect skin cells from damage and aging and may improve skin texture and appearance. People can consume them in their diet or apply them to their skin by using skin care products. Retinoids are popular in skin care products and may benefit some people but cause dryness in others.

People must wear sunscreen when using a retinoid product, and pregnant people should not use retinoids. If someone has concerns about their skin or needs help choosing skin care products, they can consult a dermatologist.

Urea is an additive in many skin care products, such as moisturizers. Read on for the benefits and uses in skin care, safety, and the best products…. Some chemicals in soap may affect health or cause skin irritation.

Learn about potentially harmful chemicals and soap alternatives. There are many brands offering face moisturizers that suit a variety of skin types and issues, including eczema and acne. We review 10 of the best…. Musely is a telehealth company that provides prescription skincare and connects customers with dermatologists.

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Medical News Today. Health Conditions Health Products Discover Tools Connect. What to know about antioxidants for skin.

Medically reviewed by Joan Paul, MD, MPH, DTMH , Dermatology — By Louisa Richards on December 7, Overview Helpful for skin? Best for skin Choosing products Drawbacks Diet Contacting a doctor FAQs Summary Antioxidants may benefit the skin by preventing or slowing aging and cell damage.

What are antioxidants? What antioxidants do for skin.

This special compound has natural antioxidant properties that destroy free radicals such as UV rays , smoke, toxins, and other environmental insults that can cause serious damage over time.

Not only do polyphenols protect the skin from free radical damage, they have also been shown to reduce inflammation, stimulate collagen production and even provide a degree of sunscreen protection. Resveratrol is an antioxidant powerhouse when it comes to skin health and weirder than that, it actually naturally exists in certain plant foods like grapes, raspberries, blueberries, and even cacao beans!

Its ability to protect our skin from day-to-day aggressors, such as pollution and sun exposure, makes it a valuable ally for healthy skin. Not only does resveratrol protect us topically, but also internally since it's known for its anti-aging skin capabilities.

It can help reduce inflammation, which prevents premature aging, reduces redness caused by acne and rosacea, and fades stubborn scars. Furthermore, zinc helps protect the skin from environmental damage by forming a protective barrier against pollutants in the atmosphere.

Incorporating antioxidants into your skincare routine is easy, and beneficial for your skin's health and longevity. Start by checking the ingredients of your existing products to see if they contain vitamin C or E, green tea, pumpkin, berries, niacinamide, or polyphenols.

If they don't, you can add topical serums or a moisturizer with antioxidants. There are so many antioxidant-rich options available in the market; from chemical exfoliants to toners, and serums. From cleansers and toners to the best antioxidant serum and moisturizer, we have everything you need to start including antioxidants for skin in your routine.

People with sensitive skin like me understand the importance of being extremely careful when it comes to skincare products. In such cases, information from this blog is highly informative. Become an Idol Insider and get the latest and greatest blogs sent to your inbox. Take Our Revamped Quiz and Find the BEST Products for Your Skin!

Antioxidants definition : What are they? Stimulating elastin and collagen production Antioxidants stimulate elastin and collagen production on the skin, which gives it elasticity, moisture, and firmness.

Help with uneven skin tone As we said before, free radicals can damage the cells and cause an uneven skin tone. Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Serum - Even out skin tone for a bright complexion. Sheet Mask.

Facial Cleanser. Tags: Aging , Anti-aging , Antioxidants , Brightening , Cacao , Damaged , Dark spots , Dry skin , Dull skin , Grapefruit , Green tea , Pumpkin , Soothing , Vitamin c , Vitamin e , Zinc oxide.

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Your email. Follow us. A beautiful concoction of vitamins A, C, and E, our Chock Full O' Vitamins Serum showcases these powerful Chock Full of Vitamins Serum.

Cloudberry AntiOxidant Gel. Why 'Cloudberries'? So glad you asked. Coconut Paradise Nutritional Facial Serum. Garden of Wisdom's Coconut Paradise Nutritional Facial Serum is a dream come true for your skin! It is undoubtedly Coconut Revival Serum. Properties healing, mildly Concord Grape Anti-Ox Serum.

So, we were on the phone with your skin the other day, and it told us what it Exclusive BLT-RC Serum. Tamarind extract helps to repair, moisturize, Some antioxidants may be a bit more likely to cause irritation itching, burning, redness in some skin tones than others.

Skotnicki points out. The biggest potential pitfall is that an antioxidant skin care product may not be as effective as it claims to be. Finding one that works, remains stable i. The overall formulation of the product, as well as the type and concentration of the antioxidants, will dictate its efficacy, adds Dr.

Broadly speaking, any antioxidant is better than no antioxidant, but there are some standouts that are worth seeking out, as well as some that may be better suited for certain skin types. This was a universally recommended top pick among all of the experts SELF consulted. What makes vitamin C so unique?

Along with fighting hard against free-radical damage, it also addresses hyperpigmentation and helps with collagen production meaning it can smooth fine lines and wrinkles , she says. A few caveats: The majority of clinical studies on topical vitamin C are based on l-ascorbic acid, the most potent and pure version, which can be a bit irritating, particularly for those with more sensitive skin , Dr.

L-ascorbic acid is also water-soluble, meaning it dissolves in water; this poses an issue since skin cells are hydrophobic they repel water , adds Dr. While l-ascorbic acid is considered the gold standard, there are other forms of vitamin C worth considering. Both Dr.

Gmyrek and Dr. Other gentler forms include magnesium ascorbyl phosphate and ascorbyl palmitate; it may be worth seeking out one of these alternate versions if your skin is easily irritated. Russak explains. On top of that, it can help improve skin barrier function, regulate oil production, and reduce redness and hyperpigmentation, says Dr.

Skotnicki says. It works harmoniously with other antioxidants, including vitamin E, as well, adds Dr. This is an umbrella term for a variety of plant-based antioxidants. Russak notes. Resveratrol is another polyphenol that packs a punch. You may know it as the standout antioxidant in red wine, but it can be good for your skin too.

Sotnicki lauds it for being very powerful, although she does note that the clinical data behind its skin benefits is lacking a bit compared to vitamin C.

Not to mention that many of them work in tandem, as, again, is the case with the powerhouse trio of vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid. But antioxidants are reparative too. Although she does cite one study that suggests consuming the polyphenols in green tea and caffeine may help prevent photo-aging, as seen in a group of Japanese women who filled out a questionnaire about their polyphenol intake before having their skin analyzed.

This potent skin-care elixir targets dullness, dry skin, and environmental aggressors with a heavy-hitting blend of hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, and ferulic acid. It basically checks off every skin-care benefit we could think of, so how could we not love it?

Want an intensive exfoliating serum? Look no further than Drunk Elephant's T. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum , a glycolic acid-based formula that's practically made for acne-prone skin. On top of the skin-tightening alpha hydroxy acid, this serum also contains pore-unclogging salicylic acid to tackle blemishes and breakouts while antioxidant-rich raspberry extract soothes and replenishes moisture.

Dullness and dark spots are no match for Sunday Riley's C. This rich, cream-like serum utilizes a stabilized version of vitamin C known as THD ascorbate to boost your complexion's radiance while moisturizing skin and reducing the look of discoloration, making it great for dry skin types.

By Marci Robin. By Allure Editors. By Dory Zayas. You can follow Allure on Instagram and Twitter , or subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date on all things beauty.

You can unsubscribe at any time. By Lauren Dana Ellman. By Jennifer Hussein. By Loren Savini. By Dianna Mazzone. Save this story Save this story. La Roche-Posay Anthelios AOX Daily Antioxidant Face Serum SPF Redness Reducer: Alastin Skincare A-Luminate Brightening Serum. Alastin Skincare A-Luminate Brightening Serum.

Best for Mature Skin: Isdin Isdinceutics Flavo-C Ultraglican Daily Antioxidant Serum. Isdin Isdinceutics Flavo-C Ultraglican Daily Antioxidant Serum.

Brightens and Moisturizes: Paula's Choice Resist Super Antioxidant Serum. Paula's Choice Resist Super Antioxidant Serum. Best Anti-Inflammatory Serum: Eau Thermale Avène A-Oxitive Antioxidant Defense Serum. Eau Thermale Avène A-Oxitive Antioxidant Defense Serum. Best Drugstore Serum: CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum.

CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum. TikTok-Approved: Topicals Faded Serum. Topicals Faded Serum. Best Brightening Serum: Tatcha Violet-C Brightening Serum. Tatcha Violet-C Brightening Serum. The Award-Winner: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic. SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic. Best for Sensitive Skin Types: Vichy Liftactiv Vitamin C Serum.

Vichy Liftactiv Vitamin C Serum. Best for Dark Spots: Mario Badescu Vitamin C Serum. Mario Badescu Vitamin C Serum. Dullness Defyer: Ren Skincare Glow and Protect Serum. Ren Clean Skincare Glow and Protect Serum.

The Multitasker: Lancôme Rénergie H. Triple Serum. How can something designed to fight off potential damage from oxidation in the body possibly help with keeping skin moisturized? Well, the answer lies in the way they work.

Antioxidants are amazing at combating free radicals, meaning they prevent them from doing any harm to our cells - including cellular drying and dehydration.

They also help restore elasticity in our skin and prevent dryness while boosting its ability to retain moisture. By fighting off oxidative damage from everything from sun exposure or air pollution, antioxidants can help skin look younger for longer.

It's like a natural face-lift! Free radicals have been scientifically proven to contribute to the development of wrinkles, sagging, dryness, and even dullness, meaning that your skin needs an extra boost to fight them off.

Antioxidants provide the perfect opportunity to do just that since they can block out these pesky free radicals and prevent further damage from being done. There are many benefits to using antioxidants in your skincare routine, with one of the biggest being its anti-inflammatory properties.

Your skin is exposed to hundreds of environmental toxins every day, such as sunlight and pollution, resulting in inflammation and irritation. In this sense, oxygen-free radicals cause damage to organic molecules in the body including skin cells, and can lead to inflammation and other conditions.

Antioxidants work like tiny warriors in our bodies, fighting off these free radicals and reducing the inflammation caused by acne, rosacea, eczema, and other skin diseases. Our skin cells are constantly exposed to free radicals from the sun which can damage their underlying structure and lead to premature aging , wrinkles, blemishes, and even skin cancer.

Antioxidants act as a line of defense against this sun damage, slowing down its progression so we stay looking healthy and young for longer. They can do this by absorbing the energy produced by the sun and preventing it from causing oxidative damage in our skin cells.

If you're looking for the best antioxidants to add to your skin routine and combat signs of aging and hyperpigmentation, our skincare fairies have narrowed it down to a few trusted ones:. The vitamin helps repair existing damage by restoring collagen production and rebuilding the protective layer of the skin.

That same protective layer is super important in protecting your skin from free-radical damage caused by environmental factors like sun exposure and air pollution, which can cause wrinkles and discoloration. Plus, Vitamin A has that added bonus of making you look younger by evening out pigmentation and bringing back your natural glow!

Niacinamide is often hailed as one of the best antioxidants available when it comes to skin health. It can help reduce inflammation, discoloration, and wrinkles while strengthening the skin barrier and diminishing photodamage from sun exposure.

It's a powerhouse ingredient that your skincare routine can't live without! In addition to being a powerful antioxidant, niacinamide has also been known to be helpful for balancing oil production in the skin so you don't have to worry about looking like an oil slick anymore.

Beta-carotene is an antioxidant powerhouse, found abundantly in plants like carrots, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin. This antioxidant can protect the body from oxidative damage and inflammation, which has a range of health benefits.

Beta-carotene works by neutralizing any rogue oxygen molecules that produce free radicals in the body—like a superhero cape! It's even been linked to improving skin tone and reducing your risk of age-related macular degeneration.

Vitamins: Blend of Vitamins E Tocopherol , C Ascorbic Acid and B-5 Panthenol to provide effective antioxidants and humectants.

A proprietary blend of fruit stem cells and Vitamin C infused into organic resveratrol-rich juices can improve the appearance of skin tone and luminosity. Hydrates and moisturizes skin with organic antioxidant-rich jojoba and shea.

Plant-derived hyaluronic acid provides plumping moisture to skin. STEM CELLULAR Moisturizer Studies have shown that resveratrol can help fight free radicals.

A proprietary blend of fruit stem cells and Vitamin C infused into organic resveratrol-rich grape can improve the appearance of skin tone and luminosity.

STEM CELLULAR Exfoliating Peel Spray Visibly resurfaces with gentle plant-derived skin exfoliant. Replenishes, restores and renews with a proprietary blend of fruit stem cells which have been infused into an organic resveratrol-rich grapeseed base.

Improves skin luminosity with Vitamin C. Visibly brightens with ascorbic acid and licorice root extract. Pore Refining Bamboo Mask Activated Bamboo Charcoal has absorbent properties in combination with Bentonite and Kaolin clays to help draw out excess oil, impurities, and help protect against daily pollutants resulting in a healthy, clear looking complexion.

Organic Aloe helps calm, moisturize and hydrate skin. Green Apple Makeup Bag Outer canvas and inner liner made with recycled cotton. Powerful Action Without Formulated without potentially harmful ingredients such as parabens, petroleum, propylene or butylene glycols, silicones, talc, carbon black, phthalates, sulfates, PEGs, TEA, DEA, GMO, artificial dyes or synthetic fragrances.

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