Gym Rats & Bunnies: let’s talk about Free Radical Damage
I was mid-sprint in the gym when it hit me—am I literally accelerating the ageing process with every stride? That burst of oxygen, that rush of energy… it’s also a surge of oxidative stress. And oxidative stress is one of the biggest contributors to premature ageing.
Let’s break it down.
The Science of Ageing: Two Core Theories
There are over 300 theories of ageing, but most fall into two categories:
Error Theories – including the Free Radical Damage Theory, first proposed by Denham Harman in the 1950s.
Programmed Theories – suggesting ageing is genetically pre-set.
The free radical theory suggests that ageing is caused by the accumulation of oxidative damage from reactive oxygen species (ROS)—unstable molecules produced during normal metabolism. These ROS can damage lipids, DNA, RNA, and proteins, accelerating cellular ageing.
Exercise: Friend or Foe?
Exercise is essential for healthy ageing and overall wellbeing. But intense workouts—like sprinting—dramatically increase oxygen consumption, which in turn spikes ROS production. This leads to oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen degradation in the skin.
Your skin, the body’s largest organ, is also the last to receive nutrients and antioxidants. Without topical support, the epidermis (your visible outer layer) can appear dull, dehydrated, pigmented, and inflamed.
What Are Free Radicals?
When oxygen splits into single atoms, they’re left with unpaired electrons. These unstable molecules—free radicals—scavenge nearby cells to steal electrons and stabilize themselves. In doing so, they damage healthy cells.
Antioxidants are the skin’s defense system. They donate electrons to neutralize free radicals or prevent them from forming altogether.
The Skin-Stress Connection
Over the years, I’ve noticed a link between over-exercise, low-calorie diets, and stress-induced acne—especially around the jawline and cheeks. While your body produces its own antioxidant enzymes, your skin needs extra support.
80% of your skin’s health comes from what you eat. But for that final 20%—the glow factor—you need topical antioxidants.
Topical Antioxidants That Work
Here are my go-to ingredients for protecting your skin from oxidative stress:
Vitamin C Stimulates collagen, brightens skin, reduces pigmentation and inflammation. A powerful antioxidant that improves skin’s lustre and clarity.
Vitamin A Restores skin health, reduces breakouts, refines pores, smooths texture, and improves tone. Also an antioxidant with regenerative properties.
Vitamin E A plant-derived antioxidant that fights free radicals and preserves skin elasticity. Soothes, hydrates, and strengthens the skin barrier.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to quit sprinting or skip your workouts. But if you want to keep your glow, support your skin with antioxidant-rich skincare and a nutrient-dense diet. Protecting your skin from oxidative stress isn’t just about beauty—it’s about cellular health.
Let your skincare work as hard as you do.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What are free radicals? | Unstable molecules that damage skin cells by scavenging electrons—leading to oxidative stress and ageing. |
| Does exercise increase oxidative stress? | Yes. Strenuous exercise increases oxygen consumption, which elevates free radical production and inflammation. |
| Why is the skin more vulnerable? | The skin is the last organ to receive nutrients and antioxidants, making it more prone to oxidative damage. |
| Which antioxidants help protect the skin? | Vitamin C, A, and E—each neutralizes free radicals and improves skin tone, texture, and resilience. |
| Can diet affect stress-induced acne? | Yes. Over-exercise and low-calorie diets can trigger acne. A nutrient-rich diet supports antioxidant levels and skin clarity. |