An antioxidant is a molecule that neutralizes free radicals in the body. “Free radicals are harmful, unstable molecules that can damage your cells or DNA,” says board-certified dermatologist Zenovia Gabriel, MD, FAAD. Free radicals can lead to inflammation and, you guessed it, oxidative stress in the body! — can cause the formation of dark spots.

Unfortunately, free radicals are quite common: they come from pollution, UV rays, food, internal stress, external aggressors, and are simply formed naturally as part of the metabolic process. It is extremely important that you look for antioxidant-rich topical products in your skin care routine so that your skin can fight off the onslaught of these molecules every day.

“People often ask how many antioxidants should be consumed regularly; the answer is: the more the merrier,” says board-certified dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, MD, Schweiger Dermatology Group. “The more you can help neutralize the unstable molecules caused by free radicals, the longer you can save the health of your cells and skin. There really is no limit to how much you can protect and restore your body!”

Here are some of our favorite antioxidants to look out for: