HOW TO PROTECT YOUR SKIN FROM POLLUTION

Air pollution is being shown to play an increasingly disturbing role in our most common skin concerns. Protecting your skin from pollution is extremely important because exposure to pollutants in the environment can lead to various skin issues such as premature aging, acne, and skin inflammation. Here are some tips on how to protect your skin from pollution

Cleansing

Proper cleansing is essential to remove pollutants, dirt, and makeup from your skin. Use a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser to wash your face twice daily, once in the morning and once before bed. If you live in areas with high pollution levels, consider starting with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and impurities, followed by a water-based cleanser to clean the skin thoroughly. Be sure to select the correct cleanser for your skin type, or opt for one that will suit everyone such as Skin Matrix Balance Cleanser, a gentle water-based cleanser with a fresh, light texture to help remove excess oil and surface impurities. Leaves the skin feeling clean and comfortably hydrated whilst soothing the skin and healing blemishes.

Healthy Lifestyle

A healthy diet and lifestyle can also help your skin. Eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, staying hydrated, and getting regular exercise can improve your skin's overall health.

Exfoliation

Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, allowing your skin to better absorb protective products. However, avoid over-exfoliating, as it can damage the skin's protective barrier. A gentle exfoliant once a week will do the trick.

Use Antioxidants

Antioxidants like vitamin C and E can help neutralize free radicals generated by pollution. Consider using a serum or moisturiser containing these ingredients. We love EmerginC Multi vitamin and Retinol Serum. This powerhouse product is a comprehensive multi-vitamin serum with airtight encapsulation and active plant extracts that combine to hydrate, soothe, improve tone and texture, and fight the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Sunscreen

We can not stress this one enough! UV rays from the sun can interact with pollution to damage your skin. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every morning, even on cloudy days. There are so many options out there for you, but it is important to find one that both you and your skin love. Whether it is a chemical, or a mineral sunscreen, the choice is yours, but get it on your skin every day!

Hydration

Hydration is key! Keep your skin well-hydrated with a good moisturiser and don't forget to drink plenty of water to ensure you are hydrated inside and out. Hydrated skin is better equipped to defend against pollution. Using a moisturiser both morning and night that focuses on hydration is super important, or better still, why not use a moisturiser that is specially formulated to focus on the effects of pollution to the skin. We love Thalgo Energising Anti-Pollution Gel Cream. This Energising Anti-Pollution Gel-Cream provides an everyday "shield" that protects the skin from urban pollution and stresses whilst helping to smooth the appearance of first lines for a renewed radiance.

Avoid Heavy Makeup

Heavy makeup can trap pollutants against your skin, causing irritation and premature ageing. Try to use lighter makeup or opt for makeup-free days when possible. A mineral makeup is a great addition to any skincare. Why stop your skincare rwith your sunscreen.. keep it going with your makeup! This is the perfect way to still look and feel your best, while continuing to deliver skincare ingredients that will protect and benefit your skin through out the day. Choose from a wide range of mineral makeup brands online at Skin Matrix such as Jane Iredale, INIKA, Aspect and more.

Protective Clothing

If you're in a highly polluted area, consider wearing clothing that covers your skin, like long sleeves and a hat, to reduce direct exposure to pollutants.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking not only contributes to pollution but is also harmful to your skin. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your skin's health.

Consult a Dermatologist

If you have specific skin concerns related to pollution, consider consulting a dermatologist. They can provide personalised advice and treatments tailored to your skin type and needs.

Remember that pollution protection should be part of your daily skincare routine, just like cleansing and moisturising. Finding the right products and habits that work for your skin type and environment is key to maintaining healthy, happy,  pollution-resistant skin.