Refers to the activity of antioxidant ingredients (such as vitamin C, vitamin E, or polyphenols) that donate electrons to stabilize reactive oxygen species and limit oxidative damage to skin cells. This process helps reduce free-radical-mediated signs of aging and environmental stress.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mild irritation or stinging | Uncommon | More likely with high concentrations or low-pH antioxidant formulations like ascorbic acid. |
| Erythema (redness) | Uncommon | Typically transient and dose-dependent. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Reported with certain antioxidants such as tocopherol/vitamin E. |
| Dryness or peeling | Rare | Occasionally seen during initial use of potent antioxidant actives. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.