Cosmetologist listed the signs of oxidative stress

Oxidative stress is an imbalance between the amount of free radicals and the body's ability to neutralize them. Since this condition is accompanied by cell damage and disruption of their functions, it contributes, in particular, to the appearance of wrinkles, sagging skin, pigmentation and dryness, Svetlana Girina, cosmetologist at the Scandinavian Health Center, explained to Izvestia.

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— Oxidative stress on the skin is manifested by decreased elasticity, dull complexion, dehydration, wrinkles and impaired microcirculation. Free radicals disrupt the work of fibroblasts, the cells that produce skin fibers. Collagen, which is responsible for skin density, and elastin, which is responsible for elasticity, are also affected," says the cosmetologist.

Membranes are damaged, lipids (fat molecules), proteins and DNA are oxidized. The skin loses its density, becomes less elastic and flabby. According to Svetlana Girina, the area around the eyes is especially vulnerable — the thin epidermis and facial activity accelerate the appearance of wrinkles.

— The external causes of oxidative stress include ultraviolet radiation and polluted air. UV radiation triggers photochemical reactions (processes caused by exposure to light) and the formation of reactive oxygen species. Environmental pollution is a source of particles that penetrate the skin and cause inflammation. Smoking and an unbalanced diet enhance these processes, warns cosmetologist Girina.

The cosmetologist calls chronic stress, inflammatory conditions, diseases and lack of sleep the internal causes of oxidative stress. With age, the skin's resources decrease, and it copes worse with high stress.

— Early signs of oxidative stress are a dull skin tone, dryness and increased reactivity, that is, sensitivity to irritating factors. Later, wrinkles, pigmentation, enlarged pores, and vascular network appear. The fastest changes are visible in the eye area, where the skin is thinner, says the cosmetologist.

To protect the skin from oxidative stress, Svetlana Girina advises to enrich the diet with vegetables, fruits, fatty fish and green tea — these products contain natural antioxidants.

Read more about how to prolong the youthfulness of the skin in the Izvestia material.

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