Essential oils with high antioxidant activity can have a dramatic effect on overall health and skincare. Over the last few years, a lot of attention has been paid to free radicals and their impact on our health and skin. Generated by pollution, dust, cigarette smoke, chemical insults and UV rays, free radicals attach to cells, causing oxidative damage.

In recent years, growing research has shown synthetic antioxidants such as BHA and BHT as potentially harmful to human health. Using essential oils as natural alternatives to synthetics has become a viable option. Additionally, dry skin, mature skin, acne-prone skin and oily skin can greatly benefit from pure essential oils with high levels of antioxidant activity.

Antioxidant Essential Oils For Skincare

Adding essential oils into your skincare routine can help prevent long-term damage while also setting you up for optimal skin health. Free radicals can destroy collagen production, cause hyperpigmentation and damage elastic fibers. Overtime, the damage can lead to the skin to premature aging. Interestingly, some free radicals are actually beneficial by acting as a natural weapon against bacteria. In other words, it's important to strike a careful balance.

The good news is antioxidants can help prevent and reverse oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Your body naturally produces antioxidant molecular compounds to fight viruses and microbes. Many plant-based foods, like kale and strawberries, also produce antioxidants. While it is possible to overuse antioxidants, adding the compound to your skincare routine can have a beneficial effect.

Studies have shown that many essential oils have a very high antioxidant activity that helps neutralize the oxidative damage caused by free radicals while acting as a natural skin barrier. When used on a regular basis, Lemon oil, Rosemary oil, Clary Sage oil and other essential oils can help reduce inflammation and increase circulation.

Because essential oils are incredibly concentrated, you only need to add a few drops to your skincare routine to see an impact. Before applying essential oils to the skin, always dilute with a carrier oil like Jojoba oil, Rosehip oil, Coconut oil or Argan oil. For sensitive skin, try Grapeseed oil. Carrier oils contain essential fatty acids and other skin-loving nutrients that can help revitalize any skin type. Vitamin E is another topical antioxidant known for its clinical and cosmetic applications.

Our Age Defy synergy blend is a rich combination of essential oils rich with antioxidant properties to deeply nourish your skin. Formulated with Frankincense, Lavender, Sandalwood and other skin-loving oils, Age Defy helps prevent wrinkles before they form and add restore damaged skin. It can also help reduce inflammation while promoting radiant skin. To obtain its benefits, try making your very own Age Defy Face Toner or face steam.

Best Antioxidant Essential Oils

From skincare to overall health, essential oils with high antioxidant activity can help neutralize damage caused by free radicals and other environmental factors. Here are some of the top antioxidant essential oils.

Blue Tansy

Steam distilled, Blue Tansy essential oil has long been associated with healthy, smooth skin. Studies have shown that Blue Tansy has some of the highest levels of antioxidants of all essential oils. It's a favorite for healing acne and blemishes. Blue Tansy can also help reduce skin inflammation and promote hydration.

Buddha Wood

Extracted through steam distillation, Buddha Wood is derived from the wood of a small tree found in the drylands of Southern Australia. According to recent research, Buddha Wood is a vigilant antioxidant that helps protect against damage caused by environmental pollution.

Clove

Long used as a natural remedy, Clove essential oil has an array of diverse properties. High in eugenol, Clove is a powerful source of antioxidant compounds. It has also been shown to have multiple antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. As one of the five essential oils in our immune-boosting synergy blend, Fighting Five, Clove is remarkably effective at helping to stave off sickness and keep you healthy.

Coriander Seed

Known for its potent linalool content, Coriander Seed is a favorite for clear complexion and relaxation. In addition to its antifungal effects, Coriander Seed's antioxidant properties can help reduce inflammation and ward off free radical damage.

Laurel Leaf

In addition to promoting general health, Laurel Leaf has been shown to improve oxidative stability while having an antimicrobial effect. The Ancient Greeks and Romans used Laurel Leaves to signify glory and reward. By adding Laurel Leaf to your skincare routine, you'll be rewarded with glowing skin.

Myrrh

Long used in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine, Myrrh is a common natural remedy for skin concerns and bacterial infections. A few small studies found it to be a more powerful antioxidant than vitamin E. Rejuvinating and restorative, just a few drops of Myrrh can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.  

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2. Hamed, S. F., Sadek, Z., & Edris, A. (2012). Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of clove bud essential oil and eugenol nanoparticles in alcohol-free microemulsion. Journal of oleo science, 61(11), 641–648. https://doi.org/10.5650/jos.61.641

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