POLLUTION
SOLUTIONS
By Danielle Hadley
We generate far too much pollution ; it ’ s suffocating the world and our skin , but as millions of us are exposed to it on a daily basis , how can we prevent it from destroying our complexions ?
Every minute of every day , tiny microscopic particles of soot , smoke , acid and other pollutants are released into the atmosphere . While most of these substances go unseen by the naked eye – most are 20 times smaller than a human pore – their effect on the skin isn ’ t as easy to ignore . These particles – known as Particulate Matter – collect on the surface of the skin , creating a suffocating layer of toxins that slowly break down the protective lipid layer before passing through the epidermis , where they introduce free radicals into the skin . These free radicals then wreak havoc on the skin ’ s underlying structure ; destroying collagen and elastin stores , and irritating and inflaming the cells . All it takes is a short stroll along a busy road while on your lunch break or a long-awaited barbeque in your back garden one weekend to expose your skin to a heady amount of pollution . As your exposure to pollution increases , so does the chance of your skin developing redness , pimples , uneven tone , bumpy texture and dehydration . To help limit the effect pollution has on your skin , you need to make sure your everyday skin care regime includes three key steps ; a daily deep clean , a high-quality antioxidant , and a barrier-supporting moisturiser .
The Daily Deep Clean Let ’ s start with cleansing . To rid the skin of pollution and toxins , you need to commit to one thorough deep cleanse a day . A quick splash of water and some face wash isn ’ t going to cut it ; you need to take your time massaging the skin – with either your hands or a sonic cleansing device – to effectively loosen debris from the surface and from within the pores . If you live in the city , you might want to follow this step up with a second cleanse to ensure the skin is completely clean and free of harmful pollutants .
Arm Your Skin with Antioxidants Pollutants weaken the skin by introducing free radicals to the cells , so find yourself a good antioxidant serum that you can apply to the skin every morning before moisturiser . The best formulas will contain ingredients like Vitamins C and E , Ferulic Acid and Superoxide Dismutase , will be packaged in opaque bottles to maintain their efficiency , and will be lightweight in texture – no one wants to apply an extra layer of skin care if it is going to make their skin feel laden with product . By introducing this step , your skin is better equipped to defend itself against pollution and can start to regain its youthful glow .
Build Up Your Barrier Finally , the epidermal barrier needs a little attention . Switch to moisturisers with a water instead of an oil base to deeply hydrate the skin and prevent the easy absorption of pollutants . One that provides sun protection is also important ; due to pollution ’ s effect on the ozone layer , the sun ’ s rays are now stronger than ever so protecting your skin against this well-known complexion-ager is always a smart idea .
ISSUE # 03 | 2017 | SkinHealthMagazine . com 34