The human body uses many internal antioxidant mechanisms to defend itself from oxidative damage, but excessive exposure to ultraviolet light as well as the natural aging process depletes the body of its internal supply of antioxidants. Antioxidants prevent oxidative damage by neutralizing oxygen-free radicals before they can attack the body. ome antioxidants are available to the body by oral ingestion, but many individuals do not achieve even the minimum daily requirement through diet or supplements. Furthermore, body control mechanisms tightly control the amounts available by oral ingestion to the cells. SkinCeuticals scientists and formulators have refined ways to stabilize and deliver additional amounts of key antioxidants into skin, thus adding to the bodys natural reservoir of antioxidants. Continued research has demonstrated that properly formulated antioxidant combinations work synergistically to provide enhanced benefit. Recent studies show that topical application of optimized antioxidant combinations can provide up to eight-fold antioxidant protection, ninety-six percent reduction of sunburn cells, and prevent the formation of thymine dimers in UV irradiated skin.

Until the advent of recently-patented technologies, not one sunscreen existed that provided both substantial UVA and UVB protection without turning skin white. Recent scientific findings reveal that it is the long UVAI (340-400 nm) rays that cause photoaging. Only two sunscreen ingredients (zinc oxide and Parsol 1789) protect in this range, with zinc oxide being the preferred ingredient. By incorporating two innovative technologies (Z-Cote transparent zinc oxide and encapsulated octinoxate) in one sunscreen product line, SkinCeuticals provides superior sun care products for daily use.

The enzyme tyrosinase converts the amino acid tyrosine into melanin in the skin. Hyperpigmentation can result when too much melanin is produced. Ingredients such as arbutin, kojic acid, and thymol inhibit or suppress tyrosinase, preventing the appearance of additional pigmentation.