While some of us have heard of ‘free radicals’ and ‘oxidative stress’, these terms may be foreign to some. The importance of knowing about these terms when selecting skin care as well as foods may prove to be beneficial in trying to reverse the ageing process & protecting the body against diseases.

Free radicals can be defined as oxygen containing molecules with an uneven number of electrons. The uneven number allows them to react easily with other molecules. These then can cause chain reactions in the body which are called oxidation.

Free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) occur naturally in the body through normal metabolic processes. These may be generated internally through exercise, inflammation or other metabolic processes in the body. External radicals may include exposure to X ray, ozone, smoking, air pollutants and chemicals.

Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants. Short term oxidative stress can occur as a result of trauma, infection, heat injury, toxins or excessive exercise.

How does this all relate to ageing ?

Well….. Research suggests that free radical damage to cells leads to changes associated with ageing. Research also suggests that in order to prevent oxidative stress, it is important to ensure antioxidants within the body are increased to reduce the ageing process.

Sooo, how can you incorporate antioxidants to prevent damage ?

Antioxidants have been found to delay the effects of cellular damage by their ability to terminate the chain reactions which occur as a result of free radicals.

Naturally occurring antioxidants can be found in many of the daily foods we eat. The main antioxidants to look for contain vitamins C, A and B. These are important to incorporate through diet as the body cannot manufacture these itself.

Foods such as citrus fruits, strawberries, broccoli, potatoes, bilberries, papaya, pineapple and kakadu plum all contain these vital anti-aging antioxidants.

While it is important to incorporate these vitamins into your diet it is just as important to make sure you are applying these topically to your skin.

Where can I find these in my skin care ?

Our Purifying Gel Cleanser contains Licorice Root which is naturally rich in antioxidants, especially B vitamins. Pomegranate Seed oil in the cleanser contains vitamins C & A which will help prevent free radical damage.

The Maaemo Fruit Enzyme Refiner is also rich in antioxidants with Bilberry & Pineapple extracts providing the skin with essential vitamin C.

Our Revitalize Face Mist contains Kakadu Plum which is naturally rich in vitamin C, it also contains Bilberry extract which contains vitamin C.

The Maaemo Hydrating Face Cream contains Green tea extracts which are naturally rich in antioxidants helping protect against oxidative damage.

Our Vitalize Face Elixir may be our most antioxidant rich product with vitamins C & A. Enriched with Rosehip & Pomegranate seed oils this elixir will nourish & protect your skin against signs of ageing.