Pollution. Let's bust a beauty myth...
Q. Pollution is simply dirty air caused by mechanical exhausts
A. False
“There are two kinds of pollution that can be harmful to the health and beauty of the skin; urban pollution caused by car emissions, air conditioning particles and smoke which can weaken the skin and make it feel uncomfortable and appear dull and environmental pollution such as intense cold, sun exposure, hard water and age, all of which can lead to dry, uncomfortable, fragile skin," says Marie-Hélène Lair, Scientific Communications Director at Clarins.
Pollution can also refer to water. “As a dermatologist I find the greatest effect on skin comes from the water quality in an area. Areas with hard water, containing a lot of minerals and chemicals, can be very irritating and damage the skin,” says Dr Justine Hextall, Dermatologist at The Harley Medical Group.
Q. Pollution doesn't affect our skin, only our lungs
A. False
"Pollution is fundamentally microscopic (up to 20 times smaller than our pore size) 'soot' particles combined with chemicals. These minute particles can slip past the outer skin defence mechanism, particularly if our skin barrier isn't healthy, and then trigger unwanted responses in the skin below. These particles cause the skin's defence mechanisms to respond leading to increased chronic inflammation, which in turn leads to production of pigmentation, redness, collagen destruction and ultimately, a more aged-looking skin,” says Dr Mervyn Patterson, cosmetic dermatologist at Woodford Medical.
Q. Pollution can be prevented
A. True
"Essentially any skin regime will help remove and prevent pollution. An effective routine will need to include careful cleansing at the end of the day. Be careful to use a gentle cleanser that will not strip the skin barrier as we know that pollution leaves our skin often drier, more irritated and inflamed. Choose a gentle wash that matches the skin’s mildly acidic pH. If your skin feels tight after cleansing, it is likely you have disrupted your skin barrier."
"Avoiding harsh physical exfoliation and over-toning of the skin. The skin is alive, self-repairing and is actually quite good at looking after itself. Unfortunately the cosmetic industry is besotted with telling people to exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate. This has the potential for damaging the skin barrier and in fact lowering the skin's defences. After this I recommend an active serum that contains anti-oxidants such as vitamin C, to help mitigate against free radical damage,” says Dr. Patterson
"Don’t forget to seal that goodness in! “Using a daily moisturiser helps to replenish those oils stripped from the skin. What is important is getting your skin the ingredients it needs,” says Vaishaly Patel, Facialist at Vaishaly.
Q. Once pollution has reaked havoc on our skin, we are unable to fix it
A. False
“This is where antioxidants come in to play. Antioxidants in effect donate an electron to mitigate against this free radical damage. Topical treatments such as vitamin C can be effective, although their effectiveness is reduced by light exposure,” says Dr Justine Hextall, Dermatologist @ The Harley Medical Group.
“Having a diet rich in fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, leafy greens, berries, etc. can give your body the vitamins and nutrients to combat skin damage. On a similar note, drinking plenty of water every day can combat the drying effects of pollution, leaving the skin fresher. In addition, looking for skin products containing elastin and collagen is also beneficial, as these vitamins help with cellular regeneration,” says Vaishaly Patel.
Q. SPF is only necessary for the sun, not for pollution
A. False
“Pollution works like sun exposure to damage skin! They both generate free radicals and inflammation which can lead to skin damage and what looks like photoaging,” says Dr. Tom Mammone Vice President Skin Physiology and Pharmacology, Clinique Worldwide
“Always wear a sun protection cream, ideally one that is light reflective! UV rays are a big trigger for cell mutation and can trigger any dormant chemicals from pollution that sit on your skin, so SPF is imperative. The idea is to protect the rest of your cells from free radical damage, while also preventing the formation of new free radicals,” says Vaishaly Patel.
Any extra tips?
“I also recommend for my city-dwelling clients to have a professional facial about every three to four weeks. That’s how long it takes your skin to move through the full life cycle of skin cell growth so I often advise people to opt for a superficial peel or exfoliating treatment in order to slough off dead skin and allow better absorption of active topical treatments. Regular treatments will help to keep your skin clean, clear and hydrated whilst maximising your everyday skincare regime too!” says Dr Justine.
Clarins Extra-Comfort Anti-Pollution Cleansing Cream, £22
Wash away the build-up of pollutants in your skin with a targeted cleanser. Clarins' cream is specifically designed with removing pollution in mind, making it one of the best. It's also gentle, creamy and has a nice scent. This was a cult classic when it was the Extra-Comfort Cleansing Cream, and it has only gotten better.
Dr Andrew Weil for Origins Mega-Defense Barrier-Boosting Essence Oil, £39
After cleansing, using a pollution-defying essence or serum is a great preventative measure. We like this new Origins formula, which comes in a travel-friendly little bottle and works well with its pipette applicator.
Vichy Idealia Life Serum, £31
Vichy's serum is a great-all rounder. It brightens and plumps skin which has been made dull by daily pollutants, as well as transforming complexions affected by daily stress and fatigue. This is a great product for skin on the oiler side, too.
Shiseido Power Infusing Concentrate, £60
This light, refreshing formula enhances the skin's defence barriers, making it the city girl's skincare saviour and new best friend. It works well on mature skins due to its wrinkle-defying properties. Use it as a serum after cleanser and toner.
Caudalie Vine [Activ] Glow Activating Anti-Wrinkle Serum, £36
With hyaluronic acid, vitamins E & C and anti-oxidants, this does-it-all serum not only protects the skin from pollution, but also helps to prevent wrinkles and create a healthy glow.
Chanel Blue Serum, £81
The perfect antidote for city life? A serum made using resources from four 'blue zones' around the world, where people live longer and better. Chanel's newest skincare addition is already a hit.
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Cream, £55
Murad's entire Environmental Shield range is effective in creating a barrier between dangerous atmospheric pollutants and the skin. We especially enjoy using this moisture cream, however, due to its ultra nourishing properties and SPF 30. Bonus feature? It smells just like zesty oranges.
Kiehl's Cilantro & Orange Extract Pollutant Defending Masque
While cleansing the skin will allow it to breathe and kick out any lingering pollutants on the surface, a mask is a great way to have an even deeper clean. Kiehl's Masque Defender is a great replenisher and protectant.
Clinique City Block Purifying Charcoal Mask and Scrub, £29
Another great mask option is Clinique's City Block Purifying Charcoal mask, which also doubles up as a scrub. A 2-in-1 way to keep skin safe from the outside-in? We're sold.
Ren Flash Defence Anti-Pollution Mist, £24
Finish your pollution-proof regime with a mist, which you can also apply on-the-go. Got a trip into the city? Make sure to pop this refreshing spray into your handbag for that extra level of complexion protection.
Lancome City Miracle CC Cream, £29
Carry your anti-pollution efforts over to your base, too, to add an extra level of protection. Lancome's City Miracle is specifically designed with city-livers and workers in mind. It was tested in some of the world's most polluted cities and contains an impressive SPF50.
