Definition: Free radicals, also known as radical oxygen atoms (O2), can be defined as unstable or unpaired electrons that result from a chemical reaction between two atoms. Free radicals can undergo various reactions, including oxidation, reduction, and catalysis, to form various substances. In skin health, free radicals are typically generated by the body's natural response to damage, such as sunburn, chemical irritants, or stress. These reactive oxygen species (ROS) cause a range of effects that lead to redness, inflammation, and other skin issues. Redox reactions play a crucial role in skin protection by reducing or neutralizing free radicals through enzymatic or chemical processes. In this context, 'free radical' is used as the broader term to describe all such changes in cellular structure (oxidation) and function (reduction). These reactions can lead to significant skin damage if not reversed. Some examples of free radical reactions in skin protection include: - Oxygen species are reduced by enzymes or enzymatic processes, leading to oxidative stress - Reactions between antioxidants and reactive oxygen species result in antioxidant defense mechanisms It's important to note that while free radicals do cause some adverse effects on the skin, they also have multiple roles in maintaining healthy tissue structure and function. Redox reactions play a fundamental role in maintaining skin integrity by regulating metabolism, preventing damage from oxidative stress, and potentially promoting healing processes.
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