Worried about your exposure to the elements? Pollution has been a hot topic lately, not merely for it’s environmental impact but the effect it has on our health and our skin. The Journal of Investigative Dermatology conducted a study over 24 years, comparing the effects of pollution on women living in urban areas and rural areas. Those residing in urban areas revealed a more accelerated rate of ageing in the skin, with more cases of dark spots and wrinkles. “Pollutants can accelerate ageing, damage the skin and cause allergic reactions and inflammation”, says Sylvie Chantecaille, Founder of Chantecaille skincare. With ways and products designed to offer protection and prevention, opt for these smart solutions and help keep the damage from pollution at bay.
Protect
Antioxidants are the gold standard when it comes to fighting off free radicals, and stopping heavy metals and smog from taking its toll on the skin. “Ingredients in the product need to target the very specific pollutants that were are most exposed to – such as nickel, iron, ozone and the four different types of free radicals caused by industry, exhausts, household goods (i.e. fire retardants, paint)”, says Georgie Cleeve, founder of Oskia skincare.
Try:
Chantecaille Anti Pollution Finishing Essence
A light fluid essence that fights against contaminants and reduces inflammation with soothing botanical extracts.
A protective formula that is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, protecting the skin up to 97.7% against free radicals.
Repair
Pollution particles below PM2.2 microns (particulate matter, the measuring device for particles found in the air), can penetrate the skin. Exposure to urban environments will bring an onset of damage to the skin, from barrier function to fine lines and inflammation. A few of the most studied and effective antioxidants are red tea, ferulic acid, vitamin C, vitamin E, japonica flowers, watercress sprouts, retinol and resveratrol”, says Dr Gary Goldfaden, founder of Goldfaden MD.
Try:
This lightly textured cream brightens dull skin while packing a punch with high levels of antioxidants.
De Mamiel Intense Nurture Antioxidant Elixir
A gentle, natural essence that combats environmental stresses on the skin and repairs from within.
Try:
Elemental Herbology Cell Nourish
Packed with green tea and Co-Enzyme Q10 which promote antioxidant activity and helps reduce the damaging effects of the environment on skin.
Sarah Chapman Skinesis Ultimate Cleanse
Omega-rich and packed with peptides that will boost collagen levels while thoroughly, deeply cleansing the skin.
Prevent
A few easy additions to your skincare regime can ensure you keep environmental free radicals from causing real damage. Deep cleansing is one simple step, to ensure no debris remains from pollutants but keep antioxidant levels up throughout the day with nutrient-rich skincare.
