Why Are Antioxidants Included in Utu Products?
When we think about sun protection, UV rays usually get all the attention. But for skin that lives outdoors—on trails, in the ocean, on bikes, skis, and city streets—sun exposure is only part of the story.
At Utu, antioxidants are a foundational part of our Outdoor Skincare® philosophy. They help protect skin not just from the sun, but from the full range of environmental stressors that come with an active, outdoor life.
What Are Antioxidants—and Why Does Skin Need Them?
Antioxidants are ingredients that help neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules created by UV radiation, pollution, wind, heat, cold, and physical stress. Left unchecked, free radicals can damage the skin barrier, accelerate visible aging, and leave skin feeling depleted and inflamed.
While sunscreen helps block UV rays, antioxidants work alongside SPF to support skin resilience before, during, and after exposure.
Think of SPF as your shield—and antioxidants as your backup system.
Antioxidants in Outdoor Skincare®
Outdoor skin faces constant change: sun at altitude, wind on a ridge, saltwater in the ocean, dry air in the mountains, pollution in the city. Antioxidants help skin adapt by:
-
Supporting the skin’s natural defense systems
-
Reducing visible signs of environmental stress
-
Helping maintain hydration and barrier strength
-
Promoting healthier-looking skin over time
That’s why antioxidants are woven throughout the Utu product range.
The Antioxidants We Use—And Where You’ll Find Them
Vitamin C & Vitamin E
Found in our SPF Face Moisturizer and SPF Stick, these well-researched antioxidants work together to help protect skin from free radical damage caused by UV exposure and pollution. They also support brighter, more even-looking skin over time.
Astaxanthin
A powerful antioxidant derived from microalgae, astaxanthin helps combat oxidative stress while supporting skin elasticity and resilience. It’s especially beneficial for skin exposed to intense sun and environmental extremes.
Sea Buckthorn Oil
Used across Utu formulas, sea buckthorn is rich in antioxidants and fatty acids that help calm, nourish, and restore skin stressed by sun, wind, and cold. It’s a key ingredient in our Hydrating Balm, where barrier repair and recovery are essential.
How Antioxidants Work With SPF
Antioxidants don’t replace sunscreen—but they enhance it.
While mineral SPF (like the non-nano zinc oxide used in Utu products) reflects and scatters UV rays, antioxidants help address the oxidative stress that still occurs during sun exposure. Together, they create a more complete approach to skin protection.
This is why Utu products are designed as hybrids: high-performance sun care meets skin care.
From Trail to City: Everyday Protection
Whether you’re trail running, surfing, cycling, skiing, or simply navigating daily life outdoors, antioxidants help skin stay balanced and supported—no matter the conditions.
They’re not about perfection. They’re about preparedness.
Because outdoor skin deserves more than just SPF.
Explore antioxidant-powered protection:
Built for life outdoors. Designed to protect skin—wherever it takes you.