How to protect your skin from pollution
Photos The Ladd Company
Words Matthieu Morge-Zucconi
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How to help your skin handle city life.
It's a fact that your skin, especially in the city, is often exposed to lots of pollution, from car exhausts to factory smoke. While it's possible to see this as the price you have to pay for city living, there are some simple actions you can take to protect your skin from pollution. Without using a hazmat suit.
So, what are the effects of pollution on your skin?
In short, there are many. A study recently published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology (a leading dermatology journal) highlighted the correlation between pollution, especially high levels of nitrogen dioxide, and certain hyperpigmentation of the skin. In plain English, we’re talking about age spots.
Prolonged exposure to pollution also damages collagen and elastin, two proteins found in the upper layer of your skin that are responsible for elasticity. The result? A reduction in firmness, which can lead to the appearance of wrinkles. What's more, as these proteins help retain water inside the skin, their weakening has an effect on your skin's natural hydration.
Pollution is an everyday problem, but it does peak at certain times. For example on sunny days, when UV rays turn chemical reactions into pollution. Or on windless days, when there's no air to dilute the pollution. Both are particularly hard on your skin.
To know when pollution is winning the battle, keep a close eye on your skin: if it’s particularly dry or has a tendency to flake (i.e. peel), it's probably time to give it better care.
What’s the best way to deal with the effects of pollution?
To take good care of your skin when the pollution count is high, here’s what you need to do.
Cleanse your face properly
At least once a day. Twice, if you ride a bike (ah, the joys of sharing bike lanes with buses). Use a gentle cleanser that won't strip your skin of the naturally produced oils that are essential to its good health.
Moisturize your skin
Moisturizer is like a shield against pollution: it forms a protective layer to keep nasty stuff out. It’s your first line of defense. But be careful: only apply it to clean skin. This prevents impurities from slipping between your skin and the moisturizing layer, like a Trojan horse. and notion a good way.
Stock up on antioxidants
Antioxidants are particularly useful for combating the free radicals that air pollution puts on your skin. The vitamin E in Horace moisturizer neutralizes them, thanks to its strong antioxidant power.
Exfoliate regularly
Weekly exfoliation is essential if you live in a city. It will eliminate impurities and also accelerate cell renewal. All in all, it's the perfect way to keep your skin fresh.
Pollution won't win this battle. You're better armed with Horace by your side.