How to protect the skin from pollution and heat-related concerns?

The environment of the urban world is full of pollution and other environmental stressors that have the potency to damage the skin by causing premature aging, skin dullness and dehydration and also predisposes it to breakouts. For your ultimate skin protection, all you need is a strategic skincare regime and holistic approach which includes lifestyle modification, physical activity and a wholesome diet. Here’s how you can safeguard your skin against pollution and heat-related damage.

Antioxidant enriched products - Pollution generates free radicals that accelerate skin inflammation induced ageing known as inflammaging. To counter this, use Vitamin C, Vitamin E and niacinamide serums to neutralize free radicals. Include antioxidant-rich foods like berries, green tea, and nuts in your diet.

Use sunscreen daily - Pollution increases UV damage by increasing free radicals and inflammation in skin and causing barrier damage. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30-50) with PA+++ for daily use. Physical blockers like zinc oxide or Titanium dioxide can be applied if you have sensitive skin. Reapply sunscreen every 3 hours, even if you are indoors and must apply 30 minutes before stepping out.

See more: Skincare Tips: Skincare routine for beautiful and soft skin this winter

Thorough face cleansing – Particulate matter in polluted air mixes with sweat and sebum to clog pores and leads to black heads, white heads and skin inflammation. Use a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser twice daily. If exposed to heavy pollution, double cleansing with an exfoliating cleanser followed by a ceramide based hydrating wash is recommended. Micellar water can be helpful to remove pollutants before washing your face.

Hydration is the key - Heat leads to dehydration, making the skin barrier more susceptible to damage. Apply hyaluronic acid for deep hydration. Use a ceramide-based moisturizer to lock in moisture and strengthen the skin barrier. Drink plenty of water and coconut water to maintain internal hydration.

Skin’s protection with physical outwear - Wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses. Use a scarf or face mask when in high-pollution areas. UV protective clothing goes a long way to give enhanced protection if sun exposure is intense and for long hours.

Anti-pollution skincare regime - Many skincare products are now formulated to fight environmental stressors. Look for anti-pollution face mists with botanical extracts. Detoxifying face masks with activated charcoal or kaolin clay are of great help to absorb impurities.

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Use skin cooling treatments - Heat can trigger inflammation and redness. To calm your skin, aloe vera gel or face mists with thermal spring water are advised. Store your toner and sheet masks in the fridge for a refreshing effect. Use ice dipping or chilled jade rollers to de-puff and soothe overheated skin.

Skin repair at night time - Nighttime is when your skin heals. Apply retinol to repair pollution-induced damage (use caution and always apply sunscreen the next day and hydrate the skin well to combat retinoid induced dryness). Peptide-based night creams are also great to boost collagen production. Overnight sleeping masks with antioxidants help to detoxify the skin. A good night’s sleep of 7 to 9 hours can never be over emphasized for its healing and anti-ageing benefits.

Heat and pollution are unavoidable, but a well-rounded skincare routine can minimize their impact. Protect your skin with antioxidants, sunscreen, hydration, and barrier-repairing ingredients while incorporating physical protection methods like hats, masks, sunglasses and UV protective clothing. Consistency is key to maintaining a resilient, healthy complexion

Dr Sama Rais, Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatologist, Founder & Medical Head at DERMA Hub

See more: Skincare Tips: Skincare routine for beautiful and soft skin this winter