Pollution not only takes a toll on the environment, but it can have damaging effects on your skin, as well. When things like dust, smog, and dirt float around in the air, they are exposed to the ultraviolet rays of the sun. This produces free radicals, which are highly charged oxygen molecules. These molecules damage the body both inside and out by attacking cells and damaging DNA. Besides free radicals, additional exposure to ultraviolet rays can cause a decrease in the skin’s collagen, resulting in a loss of elasticity as well as increased signs of aging. And toxins in polluted air and water can strip skin of moisture leading to fine lines, wrinkles, and discolorations. Exposure to dust, dirt, and smog can irritate the skin, causing itching and redness and clog the pores leading to acne, skin allergies, or eczema. Most of this damage is done to the skin on your face, neck, and hands. However, it is possible to protect your skin from pollutants and even reverse some of the damage already done.
The first thing you can do to protect your skin from damage is to wash your face twice a day with a mild soap or cleanser. This will remove any build-up of dirt and dust and help restore lost moisture. You can use mineral water to avoid using chlorinated tap water, which can also dry the skin. It also helps to exfoliate twice a week to remove the dead layers of surface skin faster and stimulate healthy skin. Drinking plenty of water will also help to keep skin hydrated so be sure to get six to eight glasses a day.
Another important step to protect the skin is to apply a daily moisturizer. Not only does it keep the skin hydrated, but moisturizer also adds a protective barrier against airborne pollutants and free radicals. In some cases, adding a serum to your beauty routine can also help in the increase of cell turnover. You should also be using sunscreen. Exposure to ultraviolet rays can not only lead to fine lines and wrinkles, but it can also cause skin cancer. Sunscreen provides protection from UV rays. You can even find a moisturizer with a sunscreen to eliminate a step in your morning skin care routine. Supplementing with Vitamin C and Vitamin E can help prevent damage from free radicals. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that not only protects your skin by preventing damage, but it can also help reverse any existing damage. Vitamin E helps strengthen skin cell membranes and boosts nutrients that resist the damage caused by UV rays. Essential fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6 are also necessary for healthy skin. Applying them to your skin in the form of a moisturizer or serum is great, but you should be sure your diet contains a good amount of these essential fatty acids from foods and supplements.
Your skin is bombarded every day by pollutants and UV rays, but you can easily protect your skin with these simple steps above.
