SDEM3: Caring for Skin in Spring

NIOD
NIOD

Springtime can bring unexpected consequences for our skin, and using a facial mist can help counteract some of these. By the end of winter, many of us are aware of dry skin and sensitivities brought on by the cold, but as spring draws in, our dermatological worries can often be forgotten. And yet, spring usually comes with increased UV rays, higher humidity and prolonged exposure to pollution, which can accelerate oxidative damage and increase our chances of epidermal dehydration.

At NIOD, we encourage you to listen to your skin, and this can be particularly relevant as the seasons change. In spring, we recommend an antioxidant facial mist like Superoxide Dismutase 3 Saccharide Mist (SDEM3), which is designed to deliver antioxidant protection, hydration and visible skin support within a spring skincare routine.

Why The Extra Support in Spring?

Everyday our skin cells are subjected to extrinsic and biological stressors. Free radicals1 , which can be formed naturally inside the body or through UV radiation, pollution, stress and chemical irritants, are highly reactive molecules that have an unpaired electron. This unpaired electron makes the free radical unstable and because of it, they try to take electrons from nearby molecules – that can lead to an uncontrolled chain reaction resulting in cellular damage. In spring, the days are longer, and we spend more time outside exposed to traffic fumes, sunlight, pollen and other irritants. Each of these factors can increase free-radical damage to skin, which can lead to a weakened skin barrier that loses water quicker, showing up as dryness and flakiness.

Skin is also more vulnerable to sunburn, eczema and general sensitivity. Recent findings show links between climate warming and dermatological complaints, and in this article2, Stephanie Dutchen, Editorial Director at HMS, observes skin’s vulnerability to climate-related changes, with doctors seeing more problems associated with a rise in air pollution and heat.

Our skin produces its own antioxidant networks to help protect against free radicalsand increased sensitivity, and at NIOD we research these natural biological systems to help create our formulations. By using a dedicated antioxidant face mistthat combines protective enzyme superoxide dismutase with hydrating saccharides, we can increase the layer of protection to our skin.

NIOD’s Superoxide Dismutase 3 Saccharide Mist (SDEM3)

Superoxide Dismutase 3 Saccharide Mist (SDEM3) is NIOD’s third-generation antioxidant face mist, designed to protect skin against environmental stressors and prevent early signs of visible skin damage using SOD3 technology. By protecting against water loss and helping to preserve skin’s natural collagen, it helps retain long-term skin integrity.

Superoxide dismutase is an enzyme that’s naturally present within the body and considered one of the most powerful first-line defenders against oxidative stress. SDEM3 contains a newly isolated, stable form of superoxide dismutase – SOD3 – that supports the skin’s own protective systems. Unlike SOD1 and SOD2 antioxidants, which work insideskin cells, SOD3 acts between outerskin cells, where it is better able to protect against collagen loss and environmental stress. By reinforcing the skin’s natural collagen network and helping reduce the loss of moisture, this enzyme mist works to minimise visible signs of ageing, helping skin look firmer and resulting in a more even-toned and radiant complexion.

Key Ingredients

  • Superoxide Dismutase (SOD): Used for antioxidant support to help prevent premature signs of ageing and retain the integrity of skin.
  • Pseudoalteromonas Exopolysaccharides: Provides immediate and long-lasting hydration to help maintain a strong skin barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss.
  • Malachite Extract: Alongside supportive botanical extracts to add complementary antioxidant support.

Other ingredients include Oxidized Glutathione, Algin Biosaccharide Gum-4, Acetyl Zingerone, Nicotiana Benthamiana Hexapeptide-40, sh-Polypepetide-2.

Main Benefits:

  • Prevents Visible Skin Damage:  Helps to neutralise free radicals and proactively guards against environmental aggressors before damage occurs.
  • Preserves Natural Collagen:  Helps minimise signs of ageing by protecting the skin’s natural collagen.
  • Instant Hydration Boost:  Delivers an instant 74% increase in hydration after a single application,* to support smoother, more even-looking skin.
  • Improves Skin Tone Uniformity:  Reduces visible redness and promotes an even complexion.
  • Suitable for all:  Made from vegan, alcohol-free and silicone-free ingredients.

*In a clinical study of 20 panelists after single use application.

How to Use in a Spring Skincare Routine

Applying SDEM3 correctly can help encourage its beneficial effects. Here’s how:

  • Apply SDEM3 in the morning and evening after cleansing face and neck.
  • Follow up with a usual serum, moisturiser or SPF for full coverage.
  • Refresh throughout the day as needed.

Extra Tips for Spring Skincare

For extra support, pair it with lightweight, hydrating serums such as MMHC2 and breathable moisturisers, like NIOD’s HV, to support spring’s seasonal shift to lighter textures. Using SDEM3 alongside sun protection can help provide more holistic environmental protection, and taking SDEM3 to use out and about during exposure to environmental stressors, can help protect against surface-level oxidative stress. Maintaining a regular and consistent skincare routine provides continuous support, preventing damage proactively rather than addressing it reactively.

Explore what’s behind NIOD formulations, where our commitment to pushing boundaries in skin science and technology comes to life.

FAQs

How do environmental stressors (UV rays, pollution, pollen) impact skin during seasonal change?

Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can compromise the skin’s protective barrier and increase susceptibility to irritation and skin conditions. Exposure to UV radiation can accelerate the breakdown of collagen and elastin, contributing to premature signs of ageing such as fine lines and changes in pigmentation. We need the protein collagen to provide structure, and elastin to allow the skin to stretch and flex.

Airborne pollutants generate free radicals that can cause oxidative stress, leading to stress and cellular damage. Additionally, seasonal allergies like pollen can further contribute to stress in sensitive skin, challenging its resilience to stressors.

Can SDEM3 be used with other antioxidant products?

There are a huge variety of antioxidants that perform in different ways and offer different benefits. Just like our skin contains a network of multiple different antioxidants, it can be beneficial to combine multiple antioxidants to provide a holistic approach to antioxidant support.

While SDEM3 stands alone as an effective product to provide protection against environmental stressors, you can explore combining this product with other antioxidant products within a regimen like Survival 0, L-Ascorbic Acid 30% Network (ELAN) and Voicemail Masque for an even more comprehensive approach to environmental protection.

How often should I apply SDEM3 in a spring regimen?

It should be sprayed twice daily in the morning or evening after cleansing. It can then be followed by a moisturiser and sun protection. In spring, following up with lighter textured formulations supports the seasonal shift, and UV protection to support skin through longer and brighter days becomes all the more important. SDEM3 can be used as and when, and can be reapplied throughout the day, to provide a protective base layer against a range of environmental stressors.

Is SDEM3 suitable for sensitive skin or all skin types?

Yes, it’s unique formulation is designed to be tolerated well by all skin types, including those with sensitivities, with a focus on strengthening the skin’s protective barrier to lock in moisture and help protect against irritants entering. It also contains targeted ingredients to help calm and reduce visible redness.

What visible signs indicate my skin could benefit from an antioxidant enzyme mist?

Signs that you might need an antioxidant enzyme mist are if your skin is feeling particularly dry or dehydrated after winter or for those who’ve noticed dullness, fine lines, pigmentation or loss of elasticity. The enzyme mist acts as an antioxidant shield to help skin stay looking radiant and youthful.

A Focus On Renewal

Springtime can lift the spirits and challenge the skin. At NIOD we focus on its renewal. With NIOD’s  Superoxide Dismutase Saccharide Mist (SDEM3) , you can take active steps in supporting your skin’s antioxidant defence and hydration levels – ahead of summer and the anticipation of longer and brighter days.