Ingredients, explained
Antioxidants and why your skin needs them
Reviewed by Cassidy, aesthetic therapist · Updated · 3 min read
The short answer
Antioxidants are ingredients that neutralise free radicals, unstable molecules created by UV, pollution and stress that damage collagen and contribute to dullness, uneven tone and early ageing. Applying an antioxidant serum such as vitamin C in the morning, under your sunscreen, gives your skin an extra layer of daily defence. They support sunscreen but never replace it.
Key points
- Free radicals from UV, pollution and stress damage collagen and make skin look dull and uneven.
- Antioxidants neutralise free radicals before they cause harm.
- Vitamin C is best in the morning, under moisturiser and sunscreen.
- Antioxidants and sunscreen work as a team. Neither replaces the other.
You have probably heard that antioxidants are good for your skin. Here is what they actually do, which ones are worth knowing about, and how to use them properly.
What are free radicals?
Free radicals are unstable molecules that are formed when your skin is exposed to things like UV light, pollution and even stress. Because they are unstable, they react with and damage the structures around them, including the collagen that keeps skin firm.
Over time, that daily damage shows up as:
- Dullness and uneven skin tone
- Pigmentation and sun spots
- Fine lines and loss of firmness
What do antioxidants do?
Antioxidants are molecules that can neutralise free radicals, disarming them before they do damage. Your body makes its own antioxidants, but daily exposure to sun and pollution can overwhelm them. Applying antioxidants to the skin gives it extra support where it needs it most.
Which antioxidants are worth knowing?
Vitamin C
The best-known skincare antioxidant. Vitamin C helps defend against environmental damage, and it also brightens the complexion and helps fade dark marks. It works best in the morning, applied under your moisturiser and sunscreen. Vitamin C can be unstable, so store it in a cool, dark place and follow the product's advice.
Ferulic acid
A plant-derived antioxidant that helps neutralise free radical damage from pollution, UV and infrared light. It is often combined with vitamin C and other antioxidants in serums because they work well together.
Niacinamide (vitamin B3)
A versatile, gentle ingredient that helps reduce the impact of environmental damage, supports an even skin tone and helps minimise the look of enlarged pores. Look for products with at least 2% niacinamide.
Other antioxidants you may see
Ingredients such as vitamin E, alpha lipoic acid, astaxanthin and glutathione are also used for their antioxidant properties, often in combination.
How do you use antioxidants in your routine?
A simple morning routine looks like this:
- Cleanse.
- Apply your antioxidant serum, such as vitamin C.
- Moisturise.
- Finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
In the evening, you can use other treatment ingredients, such as retinoids, peptides or niacinamide. Our guide to building a simple skincare routine shows how it all fits together.
If you are new to vitamin C, test it on a small area first, and introduce new actives one at a time so you can tell how your skin responds.
Can antioxidants replace sunscreen?
No. Sunscreen blocks or absorbs UV before it reaches the skin. Antioxidants help neutralise the free radicals that still form. Together they give much better protection than either alone, which is why a vitamin C serum under a daily SPF is such a popular combination. Read our sunscreen guide.
Are antioxidants used in salon treatments?
Yes. Antioxidant-rich serums and masks are often used during professional facials, especially brightening treatments for dull or uneven skin. Your therapist can recommend the right antioxidant for your skin type and concerns as part of a MAIÈ Facial.
Questions we’re often asked
When should I apply vitamin C?
In the morning, after cleansing and before moisturiser and sunscreen.
Can I use vitamin C with retinol?
It is usually simplest to use vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night rather than layering them together, which can irritate some skin.
Is vitamin C suitable for sensitive skin?
It can be, but some forms may sting. Patch test first and start slowly, or ask your therapist for a gentler option.
Do antioxidants help with pigmentation?
Some do. Vitamin C in particular helps brighten the skin and fade dark marks over time, especially alongside daily sunscreen.
Should I stop antioxidants before a treatment?
Pause vitamin C and retinol use for three to five days before and after microneedling and chemical peel treatments.
This article is general information to help you understand your skin and your options. It isn’t a diagnosis or medical advice. If you are pregnant, on medication or have a skin condition, speak to your doctor, and always tell your therapist about your health history before a treatment.
