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Antioxidants are molecules that have the ability to inhibit or stop other molecules in having oxidation reactions. This can produce unstable molecules (also known as free radicals) that start cell-damaging chain reactions. They protect cells by neutralizing external forces (like damage caused by pollution, temperature, wind, and sun), as well as internal factors (such as metabolism, emotions, and too much oxygen).

Powerful antioxidants help flush out free radicals and toxins out of the body, keeping the pores from clogging toxins and healing the damaged skin tissue. Hence, antioxidants can be very helpful in treating acne blemishes, keeping the skin vibrant and healthy.

Antioxidants are abundant in fresh natural foods and are also available in the drugstores as man-made supplements.

Most people associate only eyesight with Vitamin A. However, the epithelial tissues of the skin actually also depend on the amount of Vitamin A inside the body. Vitamin A, being an antioxidant, neutralizes damaging elements in the skin, as well as reduces sebum production, thus aiding to prevent wrinkle formation, resist skin infection and keeps the skin vibrant and youthful. Deficiency in Vitamin A can in fact cause acne outbreaks. Deep orange and dark green fruits and vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, carrots, and apricot, are rich sources of this vitamin.

Vitamin B complex is essential in maintaining healthy skin and good muscle tone, this is also vital in preventing blemishes of the skin caused by acne. Rich natural sources of Vitamin B include bananas, potatoes, tuna, and liver.

Vitamin C is an essential acid that is normally deposited in the skin and is a vital antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radicals and harmful ultraviolet light. Vitamin C helps in the formation of normal collagen that is essential in tethering scars and filling them up until they become less visible or noticeable. Citrus fruits and juices, green peppers, strawberries, tomatoes, broccoli and other leafy greens are rich sources of Vitamin C.

Vitamin E is one vital antioxidant that protects the skin cells from factors (such as pollution and ultra violet light) that produce cell-damaging free radicals. This vitamin promotes wound healing and cuts down the risk of acne scarring. Good sources of Vitamin E include sunflower seeds, peanuts, and sesame seeds.

The mineral zinc present in the body, which acts as an antioxidant, is vital for healthy skin and resistance to infection. It helps in tissue healing and scar prevention. Dairy products, yeast, beans and lentils, nuts, pumpkin seeds, and wholegrain cereals are good sources of zinc.

Chromium supplements are also found to be helpful in reducing the formation of damaging free radicals in the tissues. As it acts as an antioxidant, chromium helps reduce skin infections, preventing acne and skin blemishes.

Selenium, whose action is the same with that of Vitamin E, is another essential antioxidant useful to the human body. It also protects cells, especially those in the skin, from harmful free radicals, keeping the skin healthy and blemish free.

If you are looking for treatment for acne blemishes, consider the antioxidants, they are helpful not just in naturally improving the skin, but in keeping your overall health condition as well.