Leave it to The Ordinary to develop a low-cost product that delivers high-potency antioxidants. Both resveratrol and ferulic acid are naturally occurring in plants — resveratrol is a phenol (The Ordinary sources theirs from Japanese Knotwood) and ferulic acid is a phytochemical that's found in plant cell walls. Note that this formulation contains a much higher concentration than what's usually found in skin care, so you're really getting good bang for your buck. You can apply straight to your face or mix with your favorite cream or serum for an antioxidant boost.
Nuria is one of the newest skin care kids on the block — it launched in November 2018 — and its forte is nontoxic, clean ingredients. The Defend Skin Restoring Serum is a simple formulation that features rooibos red tea and carrot seed oil, which are both high in antioxidants. The addition of hyaluronic acid keeps skin hydrated for a dewy finish. Bonus: this one works well as a makeup primer, too!
Peach & Lily's Pure Beam Luxe Oil kicks free radicals to the curb while imparting serious glow. It's a blend of rich and fatty oils, including jojoba, grape seed, camellia, sea buckthorn, and olus (a plant-based triglyceride blend), which hydrate, soften, regenerate and protect against free radicals. It also contains squalane, a plant-based oil that's super high in antioxidants, as well as vitamin E.
Obagi Clinical is another new brand that's getting some serious attention. It hit the Sephora scene in late December 2018 and prides itself on advanced skin care technology. Its products go through rigorous clinical testing and dermatologist scrutiny, which is one reason the price tag is a little high. This serum boasts a 10 percent concentration of L-Ascorbic Acid (vitamin C), as well as arbutin. The result is a product that protects against free radicals while improving skin texture and tone.
This "fluid" by K-Beauty brand Innisfree is a multitasker that acts as a toner, serum and emulsion in one. It's enriched with orchids — vibrant purple flowers that are sourced from South Korea's Jeju Island — that have undergone the brand's special extraction process. "Orchidelixir 2.0" is rich in antioxidants that are comparable to vitamin C, which help to protect the skin from free radicals. The result is skin that's shielded, toned and hydrated.
