Can Antioxidants Make You Look Younger? What The Science Says

Sandra Scott

December 19, 2024

Healthy aging isn’t just about looking good. It's about feeling good, staying healthy, and living life to the fullest too.

So when it comes to supporting your long-term health, you’ve likely heard of antioxidants already.

But what exactly can they do for you?

Here we uncover the anti-aging power of antioxidants and show you how to incorporate them into your daily routine—through diet, supplements, and skincare.

By the end, you’ll know exactly why they’re essential for both your skin and your health. Let’s dive in.

Antioxidants Are Your Skin’s Best Defense Against Aging

Every day, your skin is under attack.

Sun exposure, air pollution, and even stress bombard your skin with free radicals (unstable molecules that damage your cells). Over time, this exposure breaks down collagen and elastin - the proteins responsible for keeping your skin firm and smooth. The result? Wrinkles, sagging skin, and a dull complexion.

Antioxidants step in like your skin’s personal bodyguards.

They neutralize free radicals, preventing the cellular damage that accelerates aging. Plus, some antioxidants can boost collagen production and promote skin repair, making them your best bet for looking younger.

What Science Says

Solid research backs this up.

Here’s how antioxidants work and why they’re so effective:

Neutralizing Free Radicals
Free radicals are like rust for your skin cells. Generated by UV rays, pollution, and even your metabolism, these unstable molecules damage your DNA, proteins, and lipids, leading to visible signs of aging. Antioxidants stop this chain reaction by stabilizing the free radicals, effectively disarming them.
Boosting Collagen Production
Collagen is the protein that keeps your skin firm, plump, and smooth. As you age, collagen production slows down, while free radicals speed up its breakdown. Studies show that antioxidants play a critical role in collagen synthesis, helping your skin retain its elasticity and youthful appearance.
Reducing Inflammation
Chronic inflammation accelerates aging by weakening your skin’s barrier and causing redness, irritation, and uneven tone. Antioxidants, particularly polyphenols found in green tea, grape seed and berries, have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. They help calm your skin and support repair processes, leaving your complexion smoother and more even.
Protecting Against UV Damage
Antioxidants complement sunscreen by adding an extra layer of defense against UV-induced free radicals. According to a 2010 study in the Journal of Dermatological Science , antioxidants reduce oxidative stress in skin cells, significantly decreasing DNA damage caused by UVA and UVB rays. This makes them essential for maintaining your skin’s health over the long term.
Supporting Longevity and Overall Health
The benefits don’t stop at your skin. By reducing oxidative stress throughout your body, antioxidants help lower your risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. In short, they’re as good for your inside as they are for your outside.

With this scientific foundation, it’s clear that antioxidants don’t just slow aging – they help reverse the visible signs of aging too.

Your Anti-Aging Action Plan: Look Younger with Antioxidants

The great news? Adding antioxidants to your lifestyle is pretty straightforward. Let’s break it down into the three key areas: skincare, supplements, and diet.

1 | Skincare: Daily Defense for Your Skin

The fastest way to get antioxidants working on your skin is through a targeted skincare routine. Look for products that are easy to use, highly effective, and packed with antioxidant-rich ingredients.

Otis Skincare has you covered:

DAILY FACE WASH with Black Tea Extract
Black tea extract contains powerful polyphenols that neutralize free radicals while reducing irritation. It's an ideal first step in protecting your skin from environmental damage. Plus, it preps your skin for a smoother shave.

PROTECTIVE SHAVE CREAM with Apricot Stone Oil
Rich in antioxidant vitamins A and E, apricot stone oil softens your beard while guarding against irritation. It’s anti-aging and nourishing—making your shave both smooth and protective.

HYDRATING DAILY MOISTURIZER with Vitamin E and Jojoba Oil
Vitamin E is a star antioxidant that promotes collagen production and protects against sagging. Meanwhile, jojoba oil prevents elastin breakdown, brightens your complexion, and evens out skin tone. Together, they deliver a firmer, smoother, younger-looking appearance.

2 | Supplements: Fill the Gaps

Let’s face it—eating perfectly every day is tough. That’s where supplements come in. They ensure you’re getting hard-to-find nutrients in the right amounts.

What to look for in an antioxidant supplement:

A blend of vitamins C, E, and A for skin repair and immune support.
Polyphenols from green tea, grape seed and berries to combat inflammation.
Selenium, zinc or copper which have been shown to improve skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles.

Taking a high-quality antioxidant supplement regularly is a simple yet powerful way to boost your body’s defenses against aging.

Our SUPER-ANTIOXIDANT DAILY GREENS includes the highest-quality sources of green nutrition to revitalize your skin and energize your body.

A powerful shot of antioxidant superfoods:

GRAINS BLEND

Brown Rice Bran, Organic Flax and Barley Malt Powder combine to strengthen your immune system, increase energy
and improve athletic performance.*

HERBAL BLEND

A powerful blend of 16 immune-boosting herbs
and plant extracts – including Siberian Ginseng, Aloe Vera Powder and
Royal Jelly Powder – to increase energy, longevity and vitality.*

SEA VEGETABLE BLEND

Spirulina, Chlorella and Sea Whistle combine to detoxify your skin and body of heavy metals. Super antioxidant spirulina also
builds collagen and is anti-inflammatory.*

FRUIT BLEND

Apple Pectin Powder, Pineapple Powder, Grape Skin Extract, Acerola Juice Powder – a potent antioxidant blend that defends against signs of aging. *

GREEN GRASS BLEND

Organic Barley Grass Powder, Organic Kamut Grass Powder, Organic Oat Grass Powder, Organic Rye Grass Powder, Organic Wheat Grass Powder
- rich in nutrients and antioxidants to ensure better skin,

a stronger immune system and improved reproductive health. *

VEGETABLE BLEND

Beet Juice Powder, Broccoli Powder, Rhubarb Juice Powder, Spinach Powder. Nutrient-rich and full of fiber, this antioxidant vegetable blend improves athletic performance and endurance,

and rejuvenates skin by protecting from free radical damage.*

* These statements have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or
prevent any disease.

While our ULTIMATE GLOW Multivitamin is packed with 19 essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamins A, C and E, selenium, zinc and copper.

Along with an antioxidant-rich blend of 7 natural extracts – including Green Tea, Cinnamon Bark, Grape Seed and Pomegranate – to defend against signs of aging and reduce inflammation.

3 | Diet: Eat Your Way to Healthier Skin

Whole foods have enormous antioxidant power. By incorporating certain foods into your diet, you’ll naturally improve your skin and overall well-being.

Top Antioxidant-Rich Foods to Add to Your Plate:

Blueberries: Packed with anthocyanins, these are your skin’s superfood. They prevent collagen loss and protect against environmental damage.
Chia Seeds: Loaded with antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, they slow aging and keep your skin hydrated.
Green Tea: A powerhouse for polyphenols, it reduces inflammation and brightens your skin.
Dark Chocolate: Contains flavonoids that protect against sun damage (opt for 70% cocoa or higher).
Leafy Greens (Spinach, Watercress): Rich in lutein and beta-carotene, they fight oxidative stress and support healthy skin.

By combining a colorful variety of antioxidant-rich foods, you’ll feel the benefits from the inside out.

Can Antioxidants Make You Look Younger? What The Science Says. Glaaa of green juice with kale and apples

FAQs: Looking Younger with Antioxidants

Can antioxidants reverse wrinkles?
They can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by boosting collagen production and protecting against free radical damage. While they won’t erase them completely, antioxidants can significantly reduce visible signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness by repairing and protecting your skin at a cellular level.

Which is better: dietary antioxidants or skincare?
Both are important. Diet provides systemic benefits, while skincare delivers targeted protection and repair to your skin. Combining the two gives you the best results.

How long does it take to see results?
With consistent use of antioxidant-rich skincare and a healthy diet, you’ll start to notice brighter, smoother skin within a few weeks. Long-term benefits, like firmer skin and fewer wrinkles, can take a few months – but it’s worth the wait!

Do I still need sunscreen if I use antioxidants?
Absolutely. Antioxidants protect against free radicals but don’t block UV rays. Always pair them with a high-SPF sunscreen for maximum protection.

Can I overdo it with antioxidants?
While it’s rare to overdo dietary antioxidants, taking excessive supplements can sometimes cause side effects. Stick to recommended doses and consult with your doctor if unsure.

The Takeaway

Antioxidants are the cornerstone of any effective anti-aging routine.

They protect your skin from environmental damage, boost collagen production, and promote a healthier, younger-looking complexion. But the benefits don’t stop there—they also support your body’s defenses, improve immune function, and contribute to longevity.

The best part? You can harness their power in three simple ways: