Concentration of harmful gases in the air is increasing day by day and the pollution level is rising rapidly. World Health Organization (WHO) defines air pollution as, the contamination of the indoor or outdoor environment by any chemical, physical or biological agent that modifies the natural characteristics of the atmosphere.
Air pollution harms our health and the chemicals in the smog block the pores and affect the skin adversely. The contaminated air makes it hard for the skin to breathe, leaving it irritated, dehydrated, and worsens existing conditions such as redness; eczema and rosacea.
Here are some tips that will help you in protecting your skin from toxic air pollution.
Protect your skin
Use sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. Cover your face with broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) sunscreen with minimum SPF-30. Follow a skincare regimen to create layer of protection on the top because it safeguards the skin from damage and also traps the smog particles and prevents these harmful chemicals penetrating deep in the skin. Wash your face with cold water.
Keep your body hydrated
Water keeps the body healthy and hydrated. Drink plenty of water. You can make detox water at home with amla or tulsi leaves which will help in flushing out toxins and give essential anti-oxidants. Anti-oxidants help in keeping skin healthy.
Scrub Every day
Scrubbing the face just for 10 seconds every day helps skin to heal and recover from the harmful effect of the pollution. You can buy scrub or can make it at home by grinding some walnuts into a coarse paste and mixing some sugar and olive oil into it. Scrub your face daily with this paste only for 10 seconds. Pollution creates a layer of harmful chemical that leads to inflammation. So, cleansing in the morning and night is a skin-care necessity.
Use face pack
There are varieties of face packs available in the market, in many flavours and variations. All you need is choose the perfect one for you. Avoid highly scented and chemical face packs. Go for herbal brands. You can use chocolate face pack as it protects skin from harmful effects of pollution.
Cleanse and moisturise well
Moisturisers keep your skin soft and hydrated. It helps in minimising fine lines and wrinkles. For cleansing, use a gentle cleanser and wash your face twice or thrice a day.
Also, remember never let the makeup on your face whole night; don’t forget to remove it with makeup remover.
Eat healthy food
Take a healthy diet rich with vitamins and minerals. Nuts, fresh fruits and vegetables are high in anti-oxidants, a potent anti-ageing substance. Vitamins A, C, and E are all powerful antioxidants. They are found in blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, leafy vegetables, nuts and beans.