Free radicals can be anywhere. We are exposed to them everyday in a number of ways – whether through lifestyle factors like poor nutrition or environmental aggressors such as pollution and UV rays.

Free radicals are unstable molecules whose naturally paired electrons have split and are now actively on the hunt for another electron from a healthy cell to feel complete again and become stable. Their quest to bond with an electron and feel whole again becomes an endless cycle of electron thieving and free radical overload, leading to oxidative stress.

Think about an avocado. When you leave a sliced avocado exposed on the counter, what happens? Within a short period of time, its silky smooth, green flesh turns a murky brown. This a prime example of the deterioration caused by free radicals – oxidative stress – in action.

Basically, oxidative stress occurs when you combine free radicals with oxygen, and the free radicals are greater than the body's ability to detoxify them. Oxidative stress shows up on our skin in the form of sagging, fine lines, and uneven tone and texture.

With the daily onslaught of external aggressors, completely eliminating oxidative stress is impossible. However, modifying our diet to include antioxidants-rich foods, in conjunction with investing in the right skincare, can limit its havoc and protect our skin.

Antioxidants act as free radical scavengers, helping to combat oxidation and counteract its damaging effects. Incorporating powerhouse antioxidants into our daytime and nighttime skincare routines will help fight and prevent damage during the day and repair ongoing damage and stimulate the body's own antioxidants at night.