How Antioxidants Can Enhance Your SPF

Natural redheads are predisposed to skin cancer and far more likely to get a sunburn even on the cloudiest of days. Wearing sunscreen is the best and most proven way to protect our skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Whenever we do not get a sunburn we think, “The sunscreen is doing a darn good job.”

That doesn’t mean we are complacent. We are always looking for ways to elevate and enhance our SPF game.

“Antioxidants” sometimes feels like one of those buzzwords we know is supposed to be good for us, but we aren’t entirely sure what they do or where they come from. Essentially, antioxidants are compounds found in foods and other plants that help to protect our bodies from free radicals. This can help to reduce the risk of things like heart disease and some cancers, as well as reduce signs of aging, promote elasticity, and improve skin hydration. Antioxidants can also help to reduce skin damage from UV light.

Using an antioxidant serum under your SPF can help to ensure that your SPF has the backup support it needs to help keep your skin happy and healthy. Antioxidants can be found in many skincare serums, so it’s easy to find one that suits your skin’s needs.

How to incorporate antioxidants into your skincare routine

Incorporating an antioxidant serum into your skincare routine as a redhead can be a beneficial step for added protection and skin health. Here’s a simple guide:

1. Cleanse Your Skin:
Begin your skincare routine by cleansing your face to remove any impurities or makeup. This sets the stage for better absorption of subsequent products.

2. Apply Toner (Optional):
If you use a toner, apply it after cleansing to balance your skin’s pH levels. This step is optional but can enhance the overall effectiveness of your skincare products.

3. Use Antioxidant Serum:
After cleansing (and toning if applicable), apply the antioxidant serum to your face. Dispense a small amount onto your fingertips and gently massage it into your skin. Pay extra attention to areas prone to sun exposure.

4. Wait for Absorption:
Allow the antioxidant serum to be absorbed fully into your skin before moving on to the next step. This usually takes a minute or two.

5. Apply Sunscreen (SPF):
Follow up with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Applying sunscreen on top of the antioxidant serum provides a dual-layered defense against UV rays.

6. Complete Your Routine (If Desired):
If you have additional skincare steps, such as moisturizing or applying other treatment products, do so after the antioxidant serum and before sunscreen.

7. Nighttime Routine (Optional):
If you prefer using the antioxidant serum in the evening, you can include it in your nighttime routine after cleansing and before other treatment products or moisturizer.

Remember, consistency is key. Incorporating an antioxidant serum into your routine can contribute to long-term skin health and protection, especially for redheads who are more prone to sun sensitivity. Adjust the steps based on your preferences and other products you might already be using.