SKIN PROBLEMS DUE TO POLLUTION

 

The increase of air pollution over the years has major effects on the human skin. The skin is exposed to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and environmental air pollutants such as hydrocarbons, oxides, ozone (O3), and cigarette smoke. Although human skin acts as a biological shield against the chemicals, dirt and physical air pollutants present in the air these pollutants may have profound negative effects on the skin. Exposure of the skin to air pollutants has been associated with skin aging and inflammatory or allergic skin.

SKIN PROBLEMS DUE TO AIR POLLUTION 

Pollution hurts your skin’s barrier function by breaking down collagen and the lipids contained within it. Studies have shown that women who live in urban areas have skin that is up to 10 percent older than that of women who don’t live in urban areas. Additionally pollution can cause irritation, rashes and breakouts, particularly peaks in pollution. Dirt particles can accumulate on skin’s surface which can clog pores when they mix with your skin cells and oils. Some other problems are:-

• Dark spots

• Uneven, dull skin tone

• Breakdown of skin’s supportive elements (wrinkles)

• Enlarged pores

• Sensitive, redness-prone skin

• Uncomfortably dry, itchy skin

Small airborne pollutants get stuck in pores, causing acne-like breakouts (often called chemical- or pollution-induced acne) and triggering damage in the deeper layers of skin, right where wrinkles and most discolorations form.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR SKIN FROM POLLUTION ?

• Remove your makeup and properly cleanse your face twice a day to remove dirt and get rid of as many pollutants as possible.

• Exfoliate your skin with aha face wash once or twice a week. 

• Moisturize your skin morning and night. After cleansing or exfoliating your face, re-balance your skin’s moisture level by applying a vitamin c serum that’s loaded with active ingredients, followed by a moisturizer adapted to your skin type (moisturizing cream, lotion, fluid, gel…). The serum and cream complement each other and help re-establish your skin’s protective barrier.

• Protect your skin from the sun. Applying sun protection (or a cream that includes sun protection) on a daily basis is essential. Not only are UV rays harmful to the skin, but they also amplify the effects of pollutants! So, make sure to apply gel based sunscreen every day, year-round.

• If you scrub for just 10 seconds every day, it helps your skin recover and heals from the ill effects of pollution. Use face packs also to moisturize, cleanse, tone and rejuvenate your skin.