There’s a seemingly endless number of factors we fend off in the name of gorgeous, glowing skin – from ultraviolet (UV) radiation to stress, makeup, skin care products, and much more. We also add air pollution to our growing list.
With 92% of the world’s total population living in urban areas that do not comply with the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) air quality standards. It would seem we all need to know a little more about protecting skin health against air pollution. Delhi’s air quality index is counted as the most hazardous and most polluted, which can cause severe health issues and skin concerns.
Here how air pollution is really affecting your skin and what you can do to neutralise its effects and reverse any damage already done.
Dermatologist at Skinesis Clinique, Vasant Vihar and skin doctor at skinesis clinique Vasant Vihar delhi suggests various remedies to fight against air pollution.
Effects of pollution on skin health
Skin has natural protective barrier to defend itself against the daily elements, but it’s certainly not immune to the effects of pollution. While skin may offer a shield against chemicals and particles present in pollution, over time, exposure to such pollutants can lead to a compromised skin barrier if proper skin care and reparation aren’t top of the mind daily.
This is because outer Layer of the skin is composed of lipids fat cells, that bind health skin together for a smoother finish, Ozone or air pollution, damages lipids, leading to ongoing inflammation and a breakdown of skin’s natural protective barrier, which subsequently damages DNA.
Carbon emissions and particulate-matter, a mixture is extremely small particles and liquid present in air, are linked to ageing skin, pigmentation, and texture issues, cancer and acne breakouts. Particulate matter poses an even greater risk of breaking through skin’s protective barrier when considering size: particulate matter ranges from 2.5 to 10 microns while a skin pore is at least five times larger; at 50 to 70 microns.
In Summary, the potential effects pollution can have on skin health include:
- Premature Wrinkling
- Uneven pigmentation or discolouration
- Dehydration or Dryness
- Dullness or Roughness
- Breakdown of collagen fibres
- Free radical damage
- Inflammation
- Depletion of essential vitamins
- Increased Sensitivity and irritation
- Risk of Skin Cancer
Prevention against Air pollution
Your skin’s natural barrier offers the best defence against the effects of air pollution, but it needs a little help to recover from the damage it takes. To boost healthy skin cell renewal and support your skin’s protective barrier, opt for skin care products that feature antioxidants like vitamin C, Vitamin E, all proven to neutralise free radicals and gradually repair skin.
Cleanse Thoroughly
A Biphasic oil cleanser to remove dirt and pollution – Washing your face after a long, polluted day is majorly important.
Wear SPF
Regular use of sunscreen can help to protect the skin from UV damage, which can exacerbate the harmful effects of pollutants.
Anti-Oxidant Rich products
Use skincare products that are high in antioxidants, such as vitamin C and E, to help fight off the free radicals that pollution produces.
Exfoliate Wisely
Frequent exfoliation promotes skin regeneration by removing dead skin cells. Avoid going overboard, though, as this can make sensitivity worse.
Barrier repair
Choose products like ceramides and niacinamide that improve the natural barrier function of your skin.
Diet is the key
For better skin, eat meals high in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
Anti-Pollution Masks
To lessen the amount of toxins you inhale directly, think about wearing a mask in cities with high pollution levels while coming out of your home or offices or travelling.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps maintain skin hydration which is crucial for overall health and resilience against pollutants.
The advantages of reducing pollution exposure on skin health are clear and staying hydrated and protected from sun, adding an air-purifier to your routine helps guard against airborne pollutants
At Skinesis Clinique, we ensure the safety first then treatments which is under the guidance of qualified and experienced dermatologist. Skin doctor at Skinesis Clinique, Vasant Vihar, are experts in treating the concern of skin, Reach out to us at +91 7011 9394 38 for queries related to skin.