A deep dive into the power of Antioxidants with Samantha Wilkins
Lets start with what vitamins are classified as antioxidants?
The big ones and the ones that are most known are Vitamins A, E & C however CoQ10, Zinc, Copper, B7 (Biotin), Silica, Niacin (B3), Curcumin, ALA, Omega 3, Green Tea, Selenium & Polyphenols all fall under the Antioxidant umbrella.
In a Nutshell how do Antioxidants help hair and scalp health?
Antioxidants play a vital role in maintaining hair and scalp health by protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals.
What is a free radical?
A free radical is an unstable molecule that has an unpaired electron. Because electrons prefer to be in pairs, free radicals are highly reactive and seek out other electrons to pair with. This reaction can lead to a chain reaction of damage in cells, tissues, and even DNA.
They sound bad! Is this a normal process in the body?
Free radicals are not entirely bad. In small amounts, they play a role in important biological functions, such as cell signaling and the immune response. The problem arises when there is an imbalance, known as oxidative stress, where free radical production exceeds the body’s ability to neutralize them with antioxidants.
How does a free radical form?
Free radicals can form naturally in the body as a byproduct of normal metabolic processes, such as during energy production. They can also be generated from external sources like:
- Pollution
- Ultraviolet (UV) radiation
- Tobacco smoke
- Chemicals and toxins
Antioxidants neutralize free radicals by donating an electron without becoming unstable themselves. This action stops the chain reaction of damage, protecting cells and tissues and helping maintain overall health.
Understanding free radicals and their impact highlights why antioxidants are important for protecting our body, including hair and scalp health.
What is one Antioxidant you were blown away by the benefits?
Copper! It's an amazing antioxidant as it helps maintain your hairs pigmentation...We have so many guests visit us regularly in studio to combat grey hair. We often go straight to topical solutions like hair colour to cover but introducing foods that are high in copper will also help support your natural colour during this time. Foods like Shellfish, Cashews, Sunflower Seeds and Dark Chocolate are a great place to start.
What are some deeper examples of how antioxidants contribute to healthier hair and scalp?
1. Supporting Hair Growth
- Follicle Health: Antioxidants support the health of hair follicles by promoting better blood flow and reducing inflammation, creating an environment that supports hair growth.
- Reducing Breakage: With stronger, less damaged hair fibers, antioxidants help reduce breakage and split ends.
2. Improving Scalp Condition
- Nourishment: Antioxidants help maintain a healthy scalp by promoting cell repair and regeneration. A well-nourished scalp leads to stronger hair growth and reduced dandruff or flakiness.
- Reducing Inflammation: Antioxidants help reduce scalp inflammation, which can contribute to hair thinning or conditions like seborrheic dermatitis.
3. Enhancing Collagen Production
- Structural Support: Vitamins like Vitamin C, which is an antioxidant, contribute to the synthesis of collagen—a key protein that strengthens hair structure. This helps maintain hair elasticity and prevent hair loss due to brittleness.
4. Protecting Against Environmental Damage
- UV and Pollution Shield: Antioxidants provide a protective barrier against environmental factors such as UV rays and pollution, which can weaken hair and damage the scalp.
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Maintaining Moisture Balance: They help prevent moisture loss from the scalp and hair, which is critical for maintaining hair texture and preventing dryness.
What product you would recommend to your guests looking to support their antioxidant intake?
Nothing beats natural foods and bringing these into your daily diet, I personally love Papaya which is high in Vitamins A, C & E, however concentrated elixirs can also strengthen your antioxidant intake. The Beauty Chef Antioxidant Elixir is my go-to internal antioxidant support booster along with their Healthy Hair & Nails Vitamins, containing biotin—which is used to produce keratin, the protein found in hair and nails—this formula is also a good source of vitamin D, Iron & Silica. For an external remedy to support your hair and scalp I can't go past the Oribe Gold Lust Transformative Mask, it penetrates to rebuild the hairs fiber with curative white tea, baobab, jasmine and their bio-restorative complex for an intensive antioxidant boost.