Hey Betty, I’ve just moved to London and I’ve heard the pollution can cause breakouts. What can I do to prevent them?
Ellie B, 25
Being exposed to pollution is (unfortunately) inevitable, especially if you live in a city. We often hear about the effect breathing in pollution can have on our overall health, but what about our skin? I consulted Victoria Schofield, educator at Dermalogica and expert in all-things-skin, “We’re seeing more and more research linking air pollution to skin damage as a result of the pollution particles entering the skin through our pores.”, she explains.
Healthy skin relies on its barrier to protect against sensitivity and keep in moisture (yep, that means the barrier is integral to dewiness). “Environmental pollutants cause damage to the skin’s protective barrier and reduce its self-repair mechanism.” – according to Victoria, this can lead to sensitivity, dehydration, breakouts and uneven skin tone, as well as – brace yourself – premature ageing.
But don’t pack your bags for the countryside just yet. You can protect your skin from pollution just like you do with sun damage (SPF, daily. No exceptions). Victoria recommends doubling up on cleansing to remove toxins, “using an oil-based product for your first cleanse will help lift pollutants from the skin” she explains, “then for your second cleanse, you can actually clean the skin with a cleanser suited to your skin”. Top tip: vitamins C and E are antioxidants – look for skincare products boasting these as ingredients.
With Treatwell, you can book beauty online at all your favourite salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go.
FAQs
How can you protect your skin from pollution every day?
Using SPF daily and doubling up on cleansing helps protect your skin from pollution damage. Oil-based cleansers lift pollutants, and a second cleanse with a suitable product keeps your skin clean. Look for skincare products with vitamin C or E for added antioxidant protection.
What damage can pollution cause to your skin?
Pollution can weaken your skin’s protective barrier and reduce its self-repair abilities. This can result in sensitivity, dehydration, breakouts, uneven skin tone and premature ageing. Healthy skin relies on a strong barrier to retain moisture and resist sensitivity.
Which ingredients help fight pollution’s effects on your skin?
Vitamins C and E are antioxidants that defend your skin against pollution. Products containing these ingredients offer additional protection and support skin health. Using them in your skincare routine can help repair and protect your skin from environmental damage.
Why is double cleansing important if you live in a city?
Double cleansing removes more toxins and pollutants from your skin compared to a single cleanse. An oil-based product is effective for the first cleanse to lift pollution, followed by a second cleanse with a skin-suitable cleanser for a deeper clean. This is especially important in urban areas with high pollution.
How does the skin barrier relate to dewy, healthy-looking skin?
The skin barrier is crucial for maintaining moisture and reducing sensitivity, which gives skin a dewy appearance. When your barrier is damaged by pollution, your skin can become dull, dry or irritated. Keeping the barrier strong is key to achieving a fresh, healthy glow.