Where are free radical scavengers commonly added?

Free radical scavengers, also known as antioxidants, play a vital role in protecting substances from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. They are commonly added to a wide variety of products due to their ability to prevent degradation and prolong shelf life.

In the context of cosmetics, free radical scavengers can help protect the skin from aging effects caused by environmental stressors and UV radiation. In food products, they are used to prevent oxidation, which can lead to rancidity and spoilage, thereby enhancing food safety and nutritional value. In the plastics industry, these compounds can protect materials from degradation due to exposure to heat, light, or oxygen, extending the life of the product and maintaining its quality.

This broad applicability across multiple industries supports the idea that free radical scavengers have a diverse range of uses, making them an important additive across many sectors, rather than being limited to just pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, or industrial applications.