We don't feel great about telling you this, but essentially you skin is under attack. Right this second.
We’re all acutely aware of the havoc sun can wreak on the skin - those UV rays can do some serious damage beneath the surface - but it’s also pollution that we now need to be extra vigilant against. You see, pollution can do an awful lot of harm to your poor complexion too. We're talking uneven skin tone, dark spots, accelerated ageing and blemishes, to name a few.
Just like UV rays it’s invisible, which is why you won’t necessarily be aware of it, but those tiny particles of soot, acid, smoke and other pollutants are in the air around us constantly. As they are so microscopic, they don’t just sit on the surface, but can actually be absorbed into your skin, in turn disrupting the way it functions.
When pollution makes contact with our skin it causes the body to produce free radicals, which in turn interferes with the skin’s ability to produce collagen, the scaffolding-like structure that keeps skin firm and taut. You see? There’s no way to sugar-coat it, but there are ways to protect yourself. Three, in fact.
By incorporating the process of cleanse, repair, protect into your skincare regime, you'll be able to help minimise damage. Here are our skincare picks in the fight against pollution...
Mask the issueA smart choice for oilier skin types, this mask draws out excess oils and impurities, including those pesky pollutants. It also serves to smooth and refine the look and feel of skin while helping to restore its natural glow. Dr Sebagh Skin Perfecting Mask, £42
Cleanse Not only does it do a great job of cleansing your complexion, but this creamy face wash from Clarins is also packed full of natural antioxidants moringa, shea and mango, to help undo the damage exposure to pollution has caused. Clarins Extra Comfort Anti-Pollution Cleansing Cream, £25
Oil up This essence-oil is the perfect texture for getting deep down into skin and contains Lady Thistle Extract, a known anti-irritant and antioxidant, that works to supercharge the skin’s own barrier so it can better protect itself from pollution’s effects. Dr Weil for Origins Mega Defense Barrier Boosting Essence Oil, £39
ProtectIncorporating all the protective elements you need to defend against pollution alongside UV defence, this little tube of cream is a knight in shining armour when it comes to protecting and defending your skin. Filorga UV Defence SPF50, £36
Mist it onSpritz on this fine mist and it'll instantly shield and protect your complexion from the harmful effects of free radicals and environmental pollution, by strengthening the way your skin naturally defends itself against stress and its ability to detox. Ren Flash Defence Anti-Pollutant Mist, £24
PurifyRemoving dirt, pollution and makeup in one fell swoop, this charcoal cleanser will work its magic to draw our any impurities and excess oil from deep within your pores. The result? Your skin will feel fresh, soft and super clean. Clinique City Block Purifying Charcoal Cleansing Gel, £18
HydratePollution can accentuate skin dehydration, so it's important to have a product to hand to quench it. Opt for a hydrating fluid that will promise to act as a protective layer on your skin, batting off any harsh pollutants. Decleor Hydra Floral Fluide Hydratant Anti-Pollution SPF30, £32.80
