How do free radicals affect the skin?

Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that can damage cells and tissues in the body, including the skin. When these molecules are present in excessive amounts, they can cause oxidative stress, which is an imbalance between antioxidants and free radicals. This oxidative stress can lead to significant damage to skin cells, contributing to the aging process.

As free radicals attack the cell membranes and DNA within skin cells, they can accelerate the breakdown of collagen and elastin, proteins that are essential for maintaining skin firmness and elasticity. This damage manifests as wrinkles, loss of firmness, and other signs of aging. As a result, understanding the role of free radicals is crucial in esthetics and skincare, as it highlights the importance of antioxidants in skin health and combating the aging process.

The other options do not align with the scientific understanding of free radicals and their effects on the skin. Free radicals do not enhance glow, prevent aging, or moisturize the skin; instead, they have detrimental effects that contribute to aging and deterioration of skin quality.