Oxidative Stress: Its Impact on Health, Cancer, and the Skin
The human body is a complex system that depends on balance—between internal and external factors—to stay healthy. One of the greatest enemies of this balance is oxidative stress, a silent process that damages cells and accelerates aging. Its consequences extend far beyond the skin’s appearance, influencing overall health and even playing a role in serious diseases such as cancer.
What Is Oxidative Stress?
Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants.
• Free radicals: Unstable molecules generated by pollution, UV radiation, smoking, alcohol, poor diet, and emotional stress.
• Antioxidants: Natural defenses that neutralize free radicals and protect cells from damage.
When free radicals outweigh antioxidants, cellular damage occurs, affecting organs, tissues, and vital functions.
Impact of Oxidative Stress on General Health
Oxidative stress is a key factor in cellular aging and the development of many chronic conditions.
Main consequences:
• DNA, protein, and cell membrane damage.
• Chronic inflammation in various organs.
• Impaired immune system function, weakening natural defenses.
• Increased risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders (such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s).
In short, oxidative stress doesn’t affect just one area—it compromises the entire body and accelerates health decline.
Oxidative Stress and Cancer
Research has shown that oxidative stress plays a role in the initiation and progression of cancer.
• Free radicals damage DNA, leading to genetic mutations.
• Accumulated damage can disrupt repair mechanisms, triggering uncontrolled cell growth.
• Chronic inflammation caused by excess free radicals creates an environment favorable for tumor development and spread.
While oxidative stress alone doesn’t directly cause cancer, it is an important risk factor that can amplify genetic and environmental vulnerabilities.
Repercussions of Oxidative Stress on the Skin
As the body’s largest organ and its first line of defense, the skin is especially vulnerable to oxidative stress.
Visible effects:
• Premature wrinkles and loss of elasticity.
• Dark spots and uneven pigmentation.
• Breakdown of collagen and elastin, essential for youthful firmness.
• Dullness and reduced skin vitality.
Connection with skin cancer:
• Oxidative damage from UV radiation is one of the main drivers of melanoma and other skin cancers.
• The inability of cells to repair DNA damage increases the risk of malignant cell growth.
How to Prevent and Reduce Oxidative Stress
The key is to strengthen the body’s antioxidant defenses through daily habits:
• Antioxidant nutrition: Eat foods rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids, and polyphenols (such as berries, grapes, leafy greens, green tea).
• Sun protection: Use natural mineral-based sunscreens to prevent UV damage.
• Healthy lifestyle: Avoid smoking, excessive alcohol, and inactivity.
• Skincare: Incorporate natural antioxidant-rich ingredients such as rosehip oil, green tea extract, vitamin C, and pure essential oils.
• Stress management: Practice relaxation techniques to prevent chronic inflammation that worsens oxidative stress.
Conclusion
Oxidative stress is a silent enemy that affects overall health, accelerates cellular aging, increases cancer risk, and leaves visible marks on the skin. However, with an antioxidant-rich diet, healthy lifestyle choices, and natural skincare, it is possible to reduce its effects and protect both internal health and external beauty.
At Lucreme, we believe every product should be more than just skincare—it should be a natural ally, delivering antioxidants, protection, and regeneration so that your skin reflects wellness from the inside out.