How do I protect my skin from environmental pollution?
Posted April 12, 2024
Environmental pollution is not only harmful to nature, but it also affects our skin.
Our skin’s lustre, brightness and quality are impacted by pollutants in the air such as heavy metals, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide emissions from cars, ozone, and particulate matter.
These harmful pollutants can penetrate the skin barrier and lead to a range of skin conditions.
They cause oxidative stress by generating free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that damage cells, causing:
- Premature fine lines and wrinkles.
- Loss of elasticity, making the skin appear dull and aged prematurely.
- Disruption to the skin’s natural balance and barrier function, leading to increased sensitivity, dryness, and irritation.
- Aggravation of skin conditions like acne, eczema, and rosacea, triggering flare-ups and inflammation.
- Contribution to hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone by activating melanocytes, leading to dark spots and discolouration.
The good news, however, is that just as we can eat well to reinvigorate our bodies and overall health, we can also add quality nutrition to our skin, and help it recover from the oxidative stress caused by these toxins.
The best way to protect your skin from environmental pollution is through a lovingly consistent daily skincare routine https://kosmea.com.au/kosmea-skin-care-routine/ that includes nourishing botanicals and antioxidants for recovery and rejuvenation.
Here are 5 ways to support the skin daily, and combat the effects of environmental pollution
1. Nourish with antioxidants
Incorporating antioxidants into your skincare routine is crucial for protecting your skin from pollution damage. Antioxidants can neutralise free radicals caused by pollution, preventing oxidative stress.
Kosmea’s Revive Illuminating Essence is a superfine facial oil with Rosehip Oil, CoQ10 and Vitamin C which are powerful antioxidants and work together to protect the skin from free radical damage. Restorative antioxidants from pomegranate and raspberry oils help to moisturise and stimulate cell turnover, to improve your skin’s texture and appearance.
Buy Revive Illuminating Essence
2. Cleanse twice daily
Proper cleansing is essential to remove pollutants, dirt, and toxins that accumulate on the skin throughout the day. Use a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type to wash your face twice daily, especially in the evening to remove makeup and pollutants. Avoid harsh cleansers that can strip the skin of its natural oils, which only lead to further dryness and irritation.
Kosmea’s Clarifying Facial Wash is a gentle, natural foaming cleanser to clarify and tone the skin while maintaining its moisture content. This SLS-free foaming facial wash doesn’t dry out your skin or strip it of vital nutrients. It maintains the skin’s moisture content by adding essential fatty acids and vitamins to the skin.
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3. Add moisture back daily
Moisturisers that penetrate the skin to deeply hydrate, will shield the skin from environmental pollution. A good moisturiser will not only lock in moisture but also act as a barrier against pollutants, preventing them from penetrating the skin and causing damage.
Kosmea’s Nourishing Treatment Cream is specifically formulated to assist relieving dryness, and itchiness associated with eczema, sun burn and dry skin conditions. Irritated or sensitive skin will feel soothed, dry, and dehydrated skin will feel moisturised and nourished.
Buy Kosmea’s Nourishing Treatment Cream
4. Wear SPF daily
Sunscreen isn’t just for sun protection, it also helps shield the skin from environmental pollutants. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and apply it daily, even on cloudy days when the UV factor is above 3. UV rays can exacerbate the effects of pollution on the skin, so wearing sunscreen is essential for overall protection.
5. Invest in air purifiers
Indoor air pollution can also impact your skin, especially if you spend a lot of time indoors. Investing in a good quality air purifier can help remove pollutants and improve indoor air quality, reducing the risk of skin issues caused by environmental factors.
Explore our range of natural skincare
Since 1993, our natural skincare range has been carefully created with the intention to restore and rejuvenate the skin from the effects of environmental damage, the sunshine, and ageing. Packed with nutritional botanicals, our cleansers, moisturisers, and serums add much-needed vitamins and minerals back into the skin for daily repair, hydration, and nourishment.
Explore our boutique range of cleansers, serums, moisturisers here. In two weeks, you will see and feel the difference.
