Natural Antioxidant Supplements for Skin Care

One of the most common reasons for taking a natural antioxidant supplement these days is for skin care. Many companies are hyping the antioxidant supplement that they manufacture for anti-aging properties or for its ability to protect, replenish, and maintain your skin against environmental damage and signs of aging. Which natural antioxidants can accomplish these feats, and is there any evidence that these claims are based in scientific fact?

Proanthrocyanidin, also known as OPC, is the most powerful known antioxidant. OPC has been shown to help protect collagen, which forms all blood vessels and connective tissues (found in skin). Because of this, many people believe that taking a natural antioxidant supplement could help protect and maintain the elasticity of the skin, resulting in a much younger and healthier appearance.

Unfortunately, the scientific evidence on this is still unclear. While some studies have shown positive benefits for the skin from taking an antioxidant supplement, others seem to show little significant effect. Other factors besides antioxidants, such as basic skin care (moisterizing, avoiding sun, etc.) and not smoking, play a major role.

However, there is plenty of anecdotal evidence suggesting that natural antioxidant supplements could help preserve youthful looking skin. In addition, while the overall evidence is still unclear, many scientific studies have shown that taking a natural antioxidant supplement can have a poisitive impact on individuals.