Topical skin compositions include a complex containing components to provide a defense against the various pathway mechanisms of free radicals, reactive oxygen species, reactive nitrogen species, and other oxidizing species on the human body including the skin. The compositions may be administered by topically applying them in an amount to inhibit those mechanisms. The compositions and methods are directed to the prevention of the adverse or detrimental effects of free radicals, reactive oxygen species, reactive nitrogen species, and other oxidizing species on the human body including the skin. Thus, the compositions according to the invention improve barrier function, inhibit elastase and collagenase, and/or promote synthesis of collagen and elastin.