How to protect your skin from daily pollutants?
While we may not be able to completely avoid pollutants as they are all around us, fortunately we can protect our skin and minimize their damage. Here's how:
1. Wash your face every night:
Washing your face thoroughly is essential for removing pollutants. Nighttime is the primary time when skin repairs itself, so always make sure to wash your face before bed. If you have oily skin, it's important to wash it again when you wake up in the morning.
Look for a gentle face wash that is free of alcohol and other skin irritants. If you have sensitive skin, avoid using cleansers that contain perfumes or dyes, as these can irritate your skin.
2. Use a skincare product containing antioxidants:
Antioxidants are substances that combat oxidative stress. You can find them in many creams, serums, and lotions.
After cleansing your face, we recommend using a product containing one or more antioxidants.
Strengthen your skin barrier
If your skin is dry, flaky, or red, your skin barrier is likely compromised and more vulnerable to pollutants. You can treat and strengthen your skin barrier by moisturizing it.
After showering, while your skin is still damp, use a fragrance- and dye-free lotion or cream. It's also best to choose a product containing ceramides, as they help boost the skin barrier function and protect it.
4. Use sunscreen daily
You probably know that using sunscreen is important to protect your skin from sunburn, premature wrinkles, and skin cancer, but what you may not know is that it also helps protect your skin from the harmful effects of pollution. Research indicates that ultraviolet (UV) rays increase oxidative stress, so using sunscreen reduces this risk.
If you haven't been using sunscreen regularly, start now. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, reapplying it every two hours and after showering or sweating.
5. Eat skin-healthy foods. Skincare products and their antioxidants help protect your skin from damage, but boosting your skin's health from within is also important.
Make sure to eat foods rich in antioxidants, such as vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes, seeds, and whole grains.
It's also good to boost your diet with omega-3 fatty acids. Consuming this type of healthy fat helps repair the skin barrier. Foods rich in omega-3s include:
Nuts and seeds, especially ground flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.
Salmon.
Sardines.