The short answer is probably, yes you can!

The skin has a complex system of antioxidants, consisting of enzymes, hormones and vitamins, which immediately neutralise reactive oxygen species, such as hydrogen peroxide, singlet oxygen, superoxide and hydroxyl radicals. The body naturally generates a greater number of free radicals under certain physiological conditions, including rigorous physical exercise and extreme dieting. When this occurs, the body responds by increasing antioxidant production and changing the balance between the different systems that are responsible for mopping up damaging reactive oxygen species. In turn, this leads to changes in cell reproduction, function and programmed cell death. This adaptive response provides greater defence mechanisms and a better response to stresses imposed on the skin and the body.

 If antioxidants have been taken orally or topically through the skin, the tenuous balance of the various systems operating can be altered, and the desired physiological changes to cope with the situation may not occur. In addition, if antioxidants are provided from an external source, the body may ‘switch off’ its own production which could have further detrimental effects. For example, clinical studies have shown that excessive Vitamin E ingestion leads to lower concentrations of glutathione enzymes which are responsible for neutralising cancer-causing toxins.

Additionally, certain antioxidants, if taken excessively above recommended doses or for prolonged periods, can have harmful effects on the body such as hypervitaminosis or kidney damage.