Beauty
Newsletter No. 1 June 2007
Inside this issue:
Beauty
Clinic
Great Summer Skin: Inside & Out
Antioxidants
It's official, taking Vitamin C on its own may not be enough to protect cells from photo damage. Reserchers at Cornell University found that Vitamin C was responsible for only a small portion of the antioxidant activity of apples and that most of the activity came from the phytochemicals found in apples. Just as we need antioxidants to protect ourselves from free radical damage, so do plants. Many plants are exposed to strong sunlight all day long and they have evolved clever mechanisms to protect themselves. One of these mechanisms is the production of phytochemicals which are highly active plant chemicals found in pigments of leaves, fruits, barks, seeds and flowers. These pigments are also responsible for the colourful variety and rich colours found in nature so the clue is the brighter the colour – green, red, yellow, orange or purple, the better. A new study by German scientists show that taking an antioxidant supplement may contribute to the sun protective action to the level of SPF 3 by their skin protective and preventative action. Although you will still need SPF protection during sunbathing taking antioxidants will increase protection.Topical Protection
But do antioxidants help when applied topically? Studies suggest that applying antioxidants topically is the only way to deliver high concentrations on the skin. Topical application of Vitamin C & E can increase skin concentrations by a factor of 10 or 20 and therefore better equipped to fight and reverse free radical damage. Research also indicates that antioxidants and phytochemicals act mainly in the dermis while retinoids such as Rose Hip Oil or Pro Vitamin A (betacarotene) act primarily in the dermis.Antioxidant Gel and
Antioxidant Serum
Our two most potent topical antioxidants combine the power of phytochemicals with the retinoid action of rose hip and betacarotene as well as vitamins C and E to protect both the epidermis and dermis. Use twice daily with a twice weekly application of Collagen Boost Mask for unbeatable protection.
The Main Antioxidants:
Polyphenols
What is it?
Biofavinoids, anthrocyanins, proanthocyanins (OPC's), quercetin, tannins & catechins.What does it do?
Anti-inflammtory, capillary strengthening (help protect fragile capillaries that lead to varicose veins and broken veins), protect tissues and help prevent scarring, making skin more elastic. Prevent damage to collagen and connective tissues. Help prevent heart disease and cancer. Help protect against macular degeneration.
Found in:
Spinach and green leafy veg.
Pine bark extract.
Red Grape seed extract.
Bilberries.
Blueberries.
Tumeric.
Green tea.
Dark chocolate.
Carotenoids
What is it?
Fat soluble colours in yellow/orange fruit and vegetables - includes betacarotene, leutein, zeaxanthin and lycopene.What does it do?
Converts to vitamin A in the body. Traps active oxygen molecules and helps prevent free radical damage. Helps reduce risk of cancer, heart disease. Protects cells from free radical damage.
Found in:
Carrots (betacarotene).
Tomatoes (lycopene).
Spinach (leutein).
Rose hips (Retinoic acid, betacarotene, leutein).
Superantioxiants
Combining the best phytochemicals along with vitamin C, E and alphalipoic acid our Superantioxidants protect the skin from the inside.Take 3 capsules daily throughout the summer months and at least six weeks before sun exposure.
Antioxidant Smoothie Recipe
Smoothies are a great boost to the skin inside and out. I made this fantastic smoothie recently and after I had sipped it,
to the remainder I added some rose hip oil and applied to my face as a mask - instant skin brightener.
6 Blueberries
6 Strawberries
6 Raspberries
2 Tablespoons filtered water
1 Tablespoon of lemon
Blitz this mixture in a blender and enjoy as an antioxidant rich smoothie. To a small remainder add 6 drops of rose hip
oil and apply to the face with a foundation brush as a face mask.
