Sunshine, beach days, and late sunsets make summer a season to soak up—but it’s also when your skin is most vulnerable to its biggest threat: oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress, primarily triggered by UV exposure, is one of the leading causes of premature aging, inflammation, and pigmentation. That’s why antioxidants aren’t just a “nice-to-have” in your skincare lineup during the warmer months—they’re non-negotiable.
What is Oxidative Stress?
Oxidative stress happens when your skin is overwhelmed by free radicals—unstable molecules generated by UV rays, pollution, poor diet, and even emotional stress. When these free radicals interact with the skin, they damage healthy cells, break down collagen, and compromise the skin barrier.
Fun Fact: Around the age of 35, our skin begins to lose 10–20% of its functioning melanocytes each year. Since melanogenesis is how our skin defends against UVA free radicals, it becomes harder and harder for the skin to prevent DNA damage and the deterioration of healthy cells as we age.
This natural decline in defense makes antioxidant support even more crucial over time, especially in summer when UV exposure peaks.
What Are Antioxidants—and Why Do You Need Them??
Antioxidants are powerful molecules that neutralize free radicals before they can wreak havoc on your skin. Think of them as your skin’s personal bodyguards—shielding it from environmental damage, helping reduce inflammation, and slowing signs of aging.
Common antioxidants you might find in skincare include:
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Vitamin C – brightens, supports collagen, and protects against UV-induced damage
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Vitamin E – soothes and strengthens the skin barrier
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Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) – improves tone, reduces redness, and boosts resilience
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Green tea extract – calms and combats pollution-related damage
The Benefits of Antioxidants for Summer Skin
1. Protect Against Sun Damage
Sunscreen is essential, but antioxidants offer added protection. Ingredients like vitamin A (retinyl palmitate), vitamin C, vitamin E, and green tea extract help neutralize UV-induced free radicals, reducing the risk of sunburn, pigmentation, and long-term photoaging.
Pro Tip: Our best-selling AVST Moisturizer 1 contains all of these ingredients & more in one simple, easy to use step. This replenishes the essential vitamins and antioxidants your skin needs to be healthy.
2. Enhance Sunscreen’s Effectiveness
Antioxidants can improve how well your sunscreen works. When applied underneath SPF, antioxidants help prevent further cellular damage and extend your protection against environmental stressors.
Tip: Apply your AVST Moisturizer 1 in the morning before your Coola sunscreen for optimal benefits.2. Enhance Sunscreen’s Effectiveness
3. Soothe and Calm Inflammation
Sun exposure, saltwater, and chlorine can leave your skin irritated. Antioxidants such as niacinamide and resveratrol help calm inflammation, reduce redness, and support the skin’s natural barrier.
4. Support Collagen and Elasticity
UV rays break down collagen, which is essential for keeping your skin firm and smooth. Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, stimulates collagen production to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and maintain skin structure.
5. Hydrate and Nourish
Some antioxidants, like Vitamin E & niacinamide, help your skin retain moisture. This keeps your skin hydrated and resilient even in hot and dry summer conditions.
6. Aid Skin Repair and Recovery
After a day in the sun, antioxidants support your skin’s recovery. They help repair damaged cells and promote healing, allowing your complexion to bounce back faster from exposure and stress.
How to Add Antioxidants to Your Summer Regimen
In Your Diet
Support your skin from the inside by eating antioxidant-rich foods such as:
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Berries including blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries
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Leafy greens like spinach and kale
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Citrus fruits including oranges and grapefruits
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Nuts and seeds such as almonds and sunflower seeds
Green tea is another excellent antioxidant-rich option that can be enjoyed cold during warmer months.
In Your Skincare
Choose products that include:
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Vitamin C to brighten and protect
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Vitamin E to nourish and repair
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Ferulic acid to stabilize and boost other antioxidants
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Coenzyme Q10 to energize skin cells
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Green tea extract to detoxify and calm
Our favourite way to layer antioxidants underneath SPF is with AVST Moisturizer 1, a thin layer of An-Balm Radiant Hydra-Balm, and then Coola SPF.
As Supplements
Did you know that Sun exposure depletes your body’s natural vitamin A by breaking down retinoids in the skin, making a supplement with vitamin A and antioxidants essential for maintaining healthy cell turnover and skin repair. We love introducing Advanced Nutrition Programme Skin Complete for a boost of Vitamin A, D, & Antioxidant blend, expertly formulated to replenish the skin from the inside out.
Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
Final Thoughts
Antioxidants are a vital part of your summer skincare strategy. While sunscreen protects the surface, antioxidants protect the deeper layers of your skin by neutralizing oxidative stress. Incorporating them into your routine will help you maintain healthy, radiant skin all season long.