Skin stress, environmental pollution & oxidative damage – how to protect your skin

Our skin is exposed to environmental stressors such as UV radiation, particulate matter, and exhaust fumes every day. These cause oxidative stress – a major cause of premature skin aging. Learn how to strengthen your skin barrier and protect it with targeted antioxidants.

What is environmental stress for the skin?

Our skin is the first line of defense against external influences. However, in our modern environment, it is exposed to daily stresses that lead to a phenomenon known as skin stress . The most common factors include:

• UV and blue light radiation
• Fine dust, exhaust fumes, ozone
• Climatic extremes (heat, cold, dry heating air)
• Nicotine, alcohol, poor diet
• Psychological stress

These environmental factors lead to an imbalance in the skin – especially to so-called oxidative stress .

What is oxidative stress?

Oxidative stress occurs when free radicals —highly reactive oxygen molecules produced by environmental pollution—overwhelm the skin. They attack cellular structures such as lipids, proteins, and even DNA.

Consequences of oxidative stress:

• Accelerated skin aging (wrinkles, loss of elasticity)
• Pigment spots
• Inflammatory processes (e.g., neurodermatitis, acne)
• Weakening of the skin barrier
• Dull, pale complexion

How does the skin protect itself?

The skin has a natural antioxidant defense system that neutralizes free radicals. This includes the body's own enzymes and vitamins such as vitamins C and E , glutathione, and coenzyme Q10. However, under chronic environmental stress, these defenses are often insufficient—the skin "oxidizes."

Antioxidants in natural cosmetics

Natural cosmetics can deliver targeted antioxidant active ingredients to support the skin in its fight against environmental stress. Particularly effective are:

• Astaxanthin – the most powerful natural antioxidant with cell-protective effects
• Vitamin C (stabilized) – reduces pigment spots, promotes collagen synthesis
• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) – strengthens the skin barrier, has an anti-inflammatory effect
• Polyphenols from plant extracts – e.g., from green tea or grape seeds
• Beta-glucan from oats – soothes stressed skin and activates regeneration

All these active ingredients contribute to the neutralization of free radicals and protect cells from premature aging.

Skin care against oxidative damage: What is important?

1. Gentle cleansing – without aggressive surfactants or alcohol
2. Moisturizing care – Hyaluronic acid & plant-based moisturizing factors
3. Antioxidant serums & creams – with vitamin C, astaxanthin, niacinamide etc.
4. UV protection – daily sun protection protects against light-induced oxidation
5. Regeneration overnight – night care with repair ingredients

myrto natural cosmetics: protection against environmental stress & skin stress

Our formulas contain highly effective, natural antioxidants – completely free of irritating ingredients such as fragrances, alcohol, or synthetic preservatives. Our fragrance-free facial care, in particular, strengthens the skin barrier and provides lasting protection against oxidative damage – even on sensitive or redness-prone skin.

❓ FAQ: Skin stress & oxidative stress

myrto products for skin stress & oxidative damage

Anti-Pollution Serum M

Organic Vitamin C Serum

Organic Niacinamide Serum